Your complete guide on how to get Riyadh Metro tickets
All aboard…
Earlier this week, the Riyadh Metro finally started operating on three lines, and locals have already started noticing a smoother flow of traffic. And if you want to get in on the no-traffic train (literally), here’s how you do just that. Here’s your ultimate guide on getting Riyadh Metro tickets and passes.
Where do you get your tickets?
Currently, you have two options. You can either get them online by selecting tickets and destinations through the Darb application, which is available on both IOS and Android, in English and in Arabic, or you can alternatively get your tickets via ticketing machines at the stations.
That’s not all though, as you can also get a physical Darb card at the machines. You do so by selecting the buy a new card option on the machine, then adding a new pass, selecting your pass of choice (more on that below), and then paying by card or cash.
What are the ticket categories?
Ticket categories currently include a standard ticket that will be valid for two hours and includes unlimited access to metro and bus rides for the duration, and a first-class category that gives passengers unlimited access to the first-class cabin for two hours and normal bus rides too.
How much do tickets and passes cost?
Standard tickets on the Darb application cost SAR4 for two hours, SAR20 for a three-day pass, SAR40 for a seven-day pass, and SAR140 for a 30-day pass.
A first-class pass on the application will cost you SAR10 for two hours, SAR50 for a three-day pass, SAR100 for a seven-day pass, and SAR350 for a 30-day pass.
If you get a physical Darb card at the stations, the card itself will cost you SAR10, and you can then top it up with tickets/balance by selecting the add a new pass on the machine. Please note that the physical Darb card cannot be topped up through the app and can only be done through the machines.
According to the Riyadh Transport website, university students are eligible for a 50 per cent discount on tickets. All you have to do is simply visit a ticket office at any station and provide official enrollment documents or your university ID. Children below the age of six can ride the metro for free, but they must be accompanied by an adult.
Can you use the same card for the bus network too?
Yes, you can also use the same card for the bus network to reach your destination of choice easily. As previously stated, once you a pass, you’re entitled to unlimited bus rides within the time duration.
Timings
The metro is currently operational from 6am to midnight.
What are the payment options?
Official fare media currently include QR tickets via the official app and the darb card, which is a contactless card valid for five years from purchase, contactless debit or credit card, Apple Pay, and Mada Pay.
Lines and routes
The metro will operate fully along three major lines: Al-Olaya and Al-Batha (blue line), King Khalid International Airport Road (yellow line), and the intersection of Abdulrahman Bin Auf Street with Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussein Street (purple line). Meanwhile, the lines along King Abdullah Road (red line) and King Abdulaziz Road (green line) will launch on Sunday December 15. The line along Al-Madina Al-Munuwarah Road (orange line) will be launching on Thursday December 5.
What are the different carriages available?
There will be three different kinds of carriages available and a total of 470 (190 sets). Categories include singles, families and VIPS. The single one can be used by single men, while the family categories reserved for families and lone females, and the VIP section can only be accessed by those with VIP cards.
Riyadh Metro, various locations, 6am to midnight. riyadhbus.sa