Saudi Arabia will inaugurate the world’s longest driverless metro.

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is about to launch the first phase of its Riyadh metro system, a project that will transform public transport in the city.

A partial opening is scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, with trains running on three of the six planned lines. The remaining lines are expected to open by mid-December.

The metro is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to reduce dependence on cars, ease traffic congestion and position Riyadh as a global trade and business hub. It is also being called the world’s longest driverless metro system.

The initial three lines will connect key routes, including Al Arooba to Botha, King Khalid International Airport Road, and Abdul Rahman Bin Auf Street to Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussain Street. Additional lines will connect King Abdullah Road, Al Madinah and King Abdulaziz Road by mid-December.

The $22.5 billion project, which was approved in 2012, has been delayed by logistical issues and the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, its opening is an important milestone in the modernization of Riyadh’s infrastructure.

Sustainability is central to Metro’s design. Solar panels at the stations will provide 20% of the energy required for critical systems. Trains with regenerative braking will reduce electricity consumption, and eventually, all six lines will run entirely on renewable energy.

Officials will soon announce ticket prices and special discount packages.