SYSTRA wins project for Riyadh Metro’s Red Line Extension

The JV will deliver management and supervision services covering the design, implementation, commissioning and start of operations of the extension on behalf of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC).

Strengthening Riyadh’s sustainable transport network

The extension of the Red Line is a new strategic section of the Riyadh metro network. Whilst the line currently runs for 25.3km along an east-west axis, from King Saud University to King Fahad Stadium, serving 16 stations, more than 85% of the extension will be underground, constructed using twin-tube bored tunnels, with the remaining sections comprising viaducts. Eight stations and 5.4km will be added to the line to extend its reach.

A key objective of the extension is to connect Diriyah – one of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent cultural and tourism destinations and home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif – to the rest of the Riyadh public transport network. The project will also strengthen connectivity for King Saud University, improving access for students, faculty and staff while helping to ease congestion on surrounding roads.

This project builds on more than a decade of collaboration in Riyadh and reflects our commitment to delivering smarter, more connected mobility for the city. By combining experience, innovation and a deep understanding of RCRC’s expectations, we are in an excellent position to support the successful delivery of this important extension.

Alexandre Jonard, Project Director, SYSTRA Arabia

A proven track record on the Riyadh Metro

The award reinforces RMTC’s long-standing role in one of the Kingdom’s most important urban transport programmes. In 2013, the JV was entrusted with managing three of the six Riyadh Metro lines, Blue, Red and Orange, representing more than 65% of the overall metro programme. That experience has given the team deep knowledge of RCRC’s standards, project requirements and the operational complexities of delivering major rail infrastructure in Riyadh.

Furthermore, new tools available on the market – such as PMIS and OpenSpace – will enable more rigorous monitoring, improved data collection, greater transparency and faster decision-making.

SYSTRA and the JV are therefore well-equipped to ensure seamless integration between the existing Red Line and its extension.

Economic, environmental and social benefits

By linking metro and bus services more effectively, it will enhance interconnectivity across the city and offer passengers a smoother, more convenient journey. The extension is expected to help reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions, while contributing to job creation and improving quality of life for residents and visitors.