Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — A vision conceived over a decade ago has today become a reality as Saudi Arabia celebrates the opening of the Riyadh Metro, one of the largest public transport projects in the world. This achievement traces its origins back to 2009, when Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, then emir of Riyadh, submitted the first official proposal for the project.

As the metro begins operation, it not only stands as a symbol of progress but also as an enduring legacy of King Salman’s leadership and vision for Riyadh’s future.

The Riyadh Metro project stems from King Salman's foresight and unwavering commitment to the city's development.

During his tenure as emir of Riyadh, he led the High Commission for the Development of Riyadh, championing strategic initiatives that addressed urban expansion and population growth challenges. His vision for a modern, interconnected Riyadh laid the foundation for this monumental undertaking.

A key milestone occurred on October 20, 2009 (1/11/1430H), marking the official start of the project's planning phase.

King Salman emphasized the importance of meticulous preparation, including engineering designs, technical specifications, and tender documents, before presenting the proposal. This comprehensive groundwork reflects his dedication to creating sustainable solutions for Riyadh’s future.

Dubbed the “spine” of the city, King Salman was the first to use this term to describe the public transport system, highlighting its significance in Riyadh’s infrastructure development.

The project, encompassing both metro lines and buses, was envisioned as a transformative initiative to enhance mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and improve the quality of life for residents.

Despite changes in leadership roles, King Salman's vision remained steadfast. As Crown Prince and later as Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, he continued to prioritize the project, showcasing the consistency and institutional strength of Saudi Arabia's leadership.

The Riyadh Metro represents more than a transportation system; it is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s capability to execute large-scale projects with strategic planning and coordination.

Early alignment with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Transport, and Riyadh Municipality, ensured a seamless transition from concept to implementation.

This milestone serves as a model for visionary urban development. The Riyadh Metro project demonstrates how strategic planning and resilience can overcome challenges to deliver tangible benefits for millions of residents. It also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to long-term developmental goals that align with Saudi Vision 2030, promoting sustainability and enhanced urban living standards.

The presence of the original proposal document highlights the value of foresight in national development