Student and Annual Passes Announced for Riyadh Metro and Bus Network

The Riyadh Transport Authority has announced the introduction of new student and annual passes for the Riyadh Metro and bus network, expanding public transport options and making daily commuting more affordable and convenient.

The new passes are set to launch on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Semester tickets will be available to students, while annual passes will offer unlimited travel across the metro and bus network for a fixed price, providing flexible long-term commuting solutions for residents and visitors.

The announcement comes as Riyadh continues to expand its public transport infrastructure to support population growth, reduce traffic congestion, and encourage the use of sustainable mobility options across the capital.

Riyadh Metro network

The Riyadh Metro consists of six main lines and 84 stations, spanning a total distance of 176 kilometres. The network connects highly populated districts with major government facilities, educational institutions, and key commercial areas across the city.

The six metro lines include:

• Blue Line: Olaya to Batha’a, covering 38 kilometres

• Red Line: King Abdullah Road, covering 25.3 kilometres

• Orange Line: Al Madina Al Monawara Road to Prince Saad bin Abdul Rahman Al Awal Road, covering 40.7 kilometres

• Yellow Line: King Khaled International Airport Road, covering 29.6 kilometres

• Green Line: King Abdul Aziz Road, covering 12.9 kilometres

• Violet Line: Abdul Rahman bin Aouf Road to Sheikh Hassan bin Hussain bin Ali Road, covering 30 kilometres

Riyadh bus network

Riyadh’s bus system includes more than 2,860 bus stops and stations, covering a total route length of 1,905 kilometres. The network has a daily capacity of around 500,000 passengers and currently operates 53 bus routes using 672 buses, serving 2,145 active stops and stations across the city.

Current ticketing options

Passengers can purchase and use a Darb card, a reusable digital wallet available for SAR10 from ticket vending machines and ticket sales offices. The card can be topped up at the same locations and used across the metro and bus network.

Commuters can also pay using contactless bank debit or credit cards, as well as payment-enabled smart devices. In addition, digital tickets can be purchased through the Darb app, available on both Android and iOS platforms.

The introduction of student and annual passes is expected to further boost public transport usage in Riyadh, offering cost-effective and convenient travel options as the city continues to modernise its transport system.