Public Transportation in Saudi Arabia: What Expats Need to Know (2025 Guide)

Public Transportation in Saudi Arabia: What Expats Need to Know (2025 Guide)

Getting around in Saudi Arabia has become much easier in recent years, especially for expats. Whether you're living in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam, there are growing options for public transportation, ride-sharing, and intercity travel.

This guide covers the main transport systems available in 2025, including the Riyadh Metro, SAPTCO buses, taxis, Uber and Careem, and even trains. If you’re an expat looking to commute daily, travel across cities, or just explore comfortably, this post will help you navigate it all.

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🚇 Riyadh Metro: A Game-Changer for Commuting

The Riyadh Metro is one of the largest public transport projects in the region. As of 2025, several lines are operational, connecting key parts of the city with modern, air-conditioned trains.

  • 🟦 Blue Line: Connects Al Olaya to King Fahad International Stadium
  • 🟨 Yellow Line: Covers King Khalid Airport to south Riyadh
  • 🟩 Green Line: Serves universities and government centers

The metro is clean, punctual, and affordable. Trains run every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and have separate compartments for families and single men.

Tickets range from SAR 3 to 10 depending on distance, and you can buy them using the Riyadh Metro app or vending machines at stations.

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🚌 Buses in Saudi Arabia: City and Intercity Travel

SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) runs bus services across major cities. In Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, you’ll find modern, air-conditioned buses running on fixed routes.

🟠 City Buses:

  • Affordable (SAR 2–5 per trip)
  • Electronic displays in English and Arabic
  • Accept prepaid cards or apps like “Riyadh Bus”

🚍 Intercity Buses:

Planning a trip to another city? SAPTCO and private companies offer long-distance coaches between cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, and Madinah.

Comfortable seats, AC, and sometimes Wi-Fi are available. Tickets cost SAR 50–150 depending on the distance.

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🚖 Taxis: Widely Available but Vary in Quality

Traditional taxis are available everywhere, especially in airports, malls, and business districts. However, drivers may not always speak English or use meters correctly.

Pros:

  • Available 24/7 in big cities
  • No need for mobile apps

Cons:

  • Some drivers refuse to use the meter
  • Language barriers can be a challenge

Tip: Use official taxi stands when possible, and agree on the fare in advance if the meter is not working.

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📱 Uber and Careem: The Best Option for Expats

For most expats, Uber and Careem (a local ride-hailing app) are the most convenient and reliable way to get around.

  • Track your driver and ETA on the app
  • Cashless payment through card or wallet
  • Options for “Comfort” or “Hala Taxi” rides

Prices are slightly higher than taxis but worth it for the safety and comfort. In Riyadh, a 20-minute Uber ride costs about SAR 25–40.

New to Riyadh? Read our full guide on finding accommodation

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🚆 Train Travel in Saudi Arabia

If you want to travel across regions, Saudi Railways (SAR) offers high-speed trains connecting major cities like:

  • Riyadh – Qassim – Hail – Jouf
  • Riyadh – Dammam (through Hofuf and Abqaiq)
  • Mecca – Madinah – Jeddah – King Abdullah Economic City via Haramain Express

Trains are modern, fast, and economical. Ticket prices range from SAR 50 to 200, depending on the route and class.

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🚗 Driving vs. Public Transport: What Should Expats Choose?

While public transport is improving, many expats still prefer to drive—especially if they live outside central areas.

Want to drive? Read how to convert your foreign license

When public transport is better:

  • If you live in central Riyadh or Jeddah
  • If your company doesn’t provide a car
  • For weekend outings where parking is difficult

For daily commutes, especially within city centers, using Uber, Careem, or the metro can save you money and stress.

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🧕 What About Women Using Public Transport?

Since reforms in recent years, women can now drive and also use public transportation freely. Metro, buses, and ride-hailing apps like Careem offer family-only sections for added comfort and privacy.

Solo female travelers often prefer Careem over traditional taxis due to enhanced safety features and female driver options.

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📱 Top Apps for Getting Around Saudi Arabia

  • Uber – For quick rides anywhere
  • Careem – Local ride-hailing with car types
  • Riyadh Metro – Metro maps and ticket purchases
  • SAPTCO – Bus schedules and bookings
  • SAR – For train tickets and schedules
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📌 Final Thoughts

Public transportation in Saudi Arabia has made huge strides in recent years. With the Riyadh Metro expanding, reliable ride-hailing apps, and clean bus networks, getting around as an expat is more convenient than ever.

If you're new to the country, give the metro or Uber a try. Once you find your routine, you may not even need your own car.

Have a question or tip? Reach out here or leave a comment below!

— The Author, My Life in Saudi

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