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At its core, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Program is a great promise to its people (citizens and residents alike): to build a nation where opportunity knows no bounds. Launched in 2016, this initiative is not just about economic diversification; it’s about creating an entirely new narrative for the country, one rooted in innovation, sustainability, and cultural vibrancy.


Among the many transformative projects underway, the Riyadh Metro Project stands out as a key initiative poised to bring Vision 2030 closer to reality. As the largest urban transit system under development globally, the Riyadh Metro is set to reshape daily life in the capital while supporting the broader goals of sustainability, economic growth, and enhanced quality of life.


Sensing this palpable energy in the air driven by a collective optimism around the state-of-the-art metro project, Borderless Access’ Middle East Team conducted a study to gauge resident’s perceptions of the Riyadh Metro. It covers a sample of Riyadh and other key city’s residents from GCC. The study also explored the challenges associated with widespread adoption and identified significant measures that could facilitate the transition to a more reliable, efficient and sustainable public transportation network.


Eradicating the Challenges Faced by Public Transport Users

Shedding light on the commuting habits of Riyadh residents, the study reveals how a whopping 86% of residents rely on personal cars or taxis/company vehicles for their daily commute. This limited public transport usage is attributed to several pain points voiced by public transport users in Riyadh. 


Public transport challenges in Riyadh

A substantial 49% of respondents cited overcrowding as a major deterrent, indicating a pressing need for increased capacity. Additionally, 49% highlighted unreliable schedules, underscoring the importance of improving service reliability.  


Connectivity issue is another notable concern for 39% of respondents, emphasizing seamless integration with other modes of transport. Safety concerns and limited coverage were cited by 20% and 10% of respondents, respectively, highlighting the importance of addressing security measures and expanding the network.


The Riyadh Metro project is a significant step towards addressing these transportation challenges. The metro system, with its multiple lines and frequent services, is designed to significantly increase public transport capacity, reducing overcrowding on buses.  The system also operates on a fixed schedule, ensuring punctuality and reliability. This is in stark contrast to the often-unpredictable nature of bus services.

 

Designed to integrate with other modes of public transport, including buses and taxis, the metro network can further improve connectivity within the region and make it easier for commuters to reach their destinations.  Its advanced security systems, including CCTV cameras and trained security personnel are set to enhance safety and security of public transport users to a great extent.

 

Deemed a reliable and efficient public transport system, the metro aims to encourage more people to shift away from private vehicles, thereby reducing traffic congestion and air pollution and contributing to the nation’s green energy goals.

 

High Hopes and Expectations 

As a harbinger of a brighter future for the city, Riyadh residents are brimming with excitement for the metro project, with safety and security emerging as the top priority. They envision a system that is not only efficient but also prioritizes passenger well-being. Quality, customer service, cleanliness, and reliability are other key expectations, highlighting the desire for a world-class transportation experience.

 

Riyadh Metro Hopes and Expectations

A resounding 74% of Riyadh residents prioritize safety and security. This accentuates the need for robust security measures and a safe environment for passengers. Residents expect a high-quality service too, with 72% prioritizing good quality and 68% emphasizing excellent customer service. Cleanliness and reliability are also crucial, with 55% and 54% respectively.


As the metro is expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve overall convenience for commuters, 42.6% of respondents believe it will save time, while 42.5% anticipate it to be convenient.  A considerable number of residents expect a fair price for the services offered with 42.5% believing it will offer good value for money. Also seen as a sustainable transportation solution that will reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality, 41.4% of respondents believe it will be eco-friendly.


Riyadh Metro Perception

Revealing the diverse expectations and hopes of Riyadh residents for the metro project, the study further illustrates the demand for digital connectivity in metro stations, with a significant 76% of respondents prioritizing free Wi-Fi. Acknowledging that convenience is essential, 57% of respondents desire ATMs at metro stations. Food and beverage options are also high on the list of priorities, with 56% of respondents advocating for restaurants and cafes. It can potentially turn metro stations into culinary destinations that offer a variety of dining choices for travelers.


Basic amenities, such as restrooms and baby care facilities, are also crucial for a comfortable travel experience. The study found that 53% of respondents emphasized the need for restrooms, while 52% highlighted the importance of baby care facilities.


To further enhance the passenger experience, 38% of respondents suggested vending machines, 40% favored retail outlets, 50% desired luggage storage, and 49% sought charging stations. These additional services could elevate the metro experience and cater to the varied needs of travelers.


Overcoming the Potential Barriers to Widespread Adoption  

Delving deeper into the potential of the Riyadh Metro Project, it’s crucial to acknowledge that while the project can help establish a truly accessible and convenient mode of transportation, its widespread adoption hinges on addressing certain key challenges.


Riyadh Metro Adoption

The study reveals a significant 56% of respondents cited the lack of nearby stations as a primary concern. For Riyadh residents, this figure jumps to a concerning 62%. At the same time, 39% of respondents expressed concerns about affordability, expressing the need for striking the right balance between cost-effectiveness and revenue generation. 


A surprising 30% of respondents, rising to 35% among Riyadh residents, prefer the convenience of private vehicles. This highlights the urgency for a compelling value proposition to entice people to switch to public transport.  


The accessibility issues, as cited by 34% of respondents cited accessibility issues, indicates the importance of inclusive design and facilities for people with disabilities. 


To maximize the potential of the Riyadh Metro, it must address these challenges head-on. Expanding the network, implementing affordable fare structures, promoting public transport, and ensuring accessibility are crucial steps to creating a truly world-class metro system that not only transforms urban mobility but also enhances the overall quality of life for Riyadh’s residents and visitors.


As Riyadh continues to grow and develop, the metro will play a crucial role in addressing the needs of both local and regional travelers. It can improve connectivity and drive tourism by making it easier for visitors to explore the city in a far more reliable, efficient, and affordable manner.

 

With the potential to revolutionize the city’s transportation landscape, the Riyadh Metro Project is a testament to the city’s ambition to become a global metropolis while moving forward on a path of sustainable development.