Pioneering Saudi Arabia's Transportation Infrastructure
67 driverless two- and four-car metro trains for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Riyadh’s rapidly growing population can look forward to state-of-the-art, air-conditioned metro trains with equipped with fully automated train operation (CBTC).
State-of-the-art metro system relieves congestion
To address its urban transit challenges, Riyadh is undertaking the world’s largest public transit project. This ambitious initiative includes six metro lines spanning a total of 176 kilometers and 842 buses covering 1,900 kilometers of route length. The metro rail project involves three consortia, including the BACS consortium, led by the U.S.-based Bechtel Company, along with local construction companies Almabani and Consolidated Contractors Company and Siemens Mobility.
In October 2013, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City awarded the BACS consortium the contract to build Line1 and Line 2 of the Riyadh Public Transit System, the first project of its kind in Saudi Arabia. As part of a turnkey solution, Siemens Mobility has delivered a total of 67 metro trains for lines 1 (Blue) and 2 (Red) of the Riyadh metro system, which together cover a route length of 64 kilometers and were commissioned in December 2024.
Advanced Climate-Adapted Metro Vehicles for Riyadh
The 41 four-car and 26 two-car driverless "Riyadh Metro Model" vehicles, based on the Inspiro platform, are meticulously designed to withstand the region's harsh climate. Equipped with high-capacity air conditioning systems, these trains ensure passengers remain comfortable even in extreme heat. Special filters and sealing systems effectively prevent sand from entering the vehicle components and passenger compartments. Additionally, the Inspiro design solutions optimize energy consumption, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance recyclability. These trains also meet stringent fire protection standards, complying with NFPA 130 and EN 45545 requirements.
Highlights of the metro trains for Riyadh
- Fully automated operation – a state-of-the-art automation system for routes and driverless train operation (GoA4)
- Passenger comfort – the passenger compartment (divided into First Class, Family Class and Single Class) is comfortably furnished and offers a comprehensive passenger information system
- Train configuration – the vehicles are either two-car or four-car trains, depending on the capacity required on the lines
- Enhanced passenger safety – thanks to safety systems such as a CCTV system, derailment detectors and fire safety according to NFPA130 / EN45545
A long lasting innovation partnership to transform Saudi Arabia's Transportation
Since 2006, Siemens Mobility has made significant contributions to Saudi Arabia's transportation infrastructure, marking 18 years of transformative impact. The company introduced the first European Train Control System in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) for the East-West Rail Line, significantly enhancing both passenger and freight transport between Riyadh and Dammam. Siemens Mobility's involvement in the Haramain High-Speed Rail project highlights its dedication to pioneering high-speed rail solutions. Additionally, the company has played a crucial role in the electrification of the Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro line, greatly improving its operational efficiency.