Transportation in Saudi Arabia | Metro, Trains, Buses & Flights Guide

Transportation in Saudi Arabia 🗺️

Trusted Travel Guide for Exploring Saudi Arabia Efficiently

1. Getting Around in Cities

Riyadh Metro
Riyadh — Metro + Bus

Riyadh Metro (6 lines, 85 stations) fully operational from Jan 2025. Tickets via Darb App.

  • Jeddah Bus: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM (App)
  • Eastern Bus: 212 stations, 85 buses (Details)
  • Madinah Bus: 116 stations, 5 routes (App)

2. Intercity Trains

Haramain Train
Haramain High-Speed Railway

Makkah ↔ Madinah via Jeddah & KAEC. Book tickets.

SAR Railways: East (Riyadh–Dammam) & North (Riyadh–Al-Qurayyat) (SAR Site)

3. Intercity Buses

SAPTCO Bus

SAPTCO operates national & international routes. SAT (SAPTCO-ALSA) offers premium buses. (SAPTCO | SAT)

4. Domestic Flights

Domestic Flights

Main carriers: Saudia, flynas, flyadeal. Riyadh Air launching late 2025.

5. Taxis & Ride-Hailing

Uber Taxi

Uber & Careem are widely available, safe, and transparent. Regulated by TGA.

6. Car Rentals & Driving

Car Rental

Driving is on the right with bilingual signs. Carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) for rentals.

Quick Picks — Best Options

  • 🚆 Within Riyadh: Metro + Bus (Darb App)
  • 🚄 Makkah ↔ Madinah: Haramain HSR
  • 🚌 Riyadh ↔ Dammam: SAR East Line or short flight
  • 🚗 Flexible trips: Rent a car

Transport Comparison

Mode Speed Cost Best For
🚆 MetroFastLowCity travel
🚄 HSR TrainVery FastMediumMakkah ↔ Madinah
🚌 BusModerateLowBudget & Intercity
✈️ FlightVery FastHighLong distance
🚖 TaxiFlexibleMediumShort trips
🚗 Car RentalFlexibleVariesRoad trips

Seasonal Travel Notes

During Ramadan & Hajj, demand surges — book early. In summer, use AC transport like metro, trains, and modern buses.