Transport in Riyadh
Travelling around the kingdom’s busiest capital can take time. Want to find timely and comforting ways to get around the city limits of Riyadh? Here’s everything you need to know about the etiquette for riding public buses to hailing your very own taxi in the city.
Buses
Buses are the most affordable and widely used modes of transport in Riyadh. With networks that run throughout the central spots within and beyond the city limits, Riyadh buses uphold a reputation of being very clean and decent. Riyadh is home to two main bus lines, the government bus line(aka SAPTCO) and the private one. These bus services can be used for both short and long-distance travel. Bus tickets can be reserved online, on-site or from a booking agent.
These are the documents you require to travel in buses of Riyadh; a valid residence permit or a valid copy of the passport. Make sure you have with you these travel documents at all times during your journey.
Some guidelines for you to follow when travelling in Riyadh buses;
- Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the buses
- It’s always better to check-in at the station at least 30 minutes before the departure
- Avoid booking the front seats unless you are with your family (front seats are usually reserved for families)
- Children under the age of 12 will be required to travel at half the adult fees
- Children under the age of thirteen are not permitted to travel alone
- All children to travel in Riyadh buses should have a valid ID card
- Children between the ages of 13 – 17 can only travel alone with a completed Guardian Approval Form
- Infants under the age of 2 will be issued a ticket(this will be free of charge)
Trains
Riyadh has a rapidly expanding railway network. Trains are one of the cheapest and most comfortable options available in Riyadh for safe travel. Riyadh trains are divided into three classes, first, second and third. Most of the trains have air-conditioning and spacious seating with plenty of legroom. Almost all the trains in Riyadh come with USB/AC outlets, a sanitary washroom to freshen up, a whole canteen of ready-to-serve snacks as well as high-speed WiFi. Train tickets in Riyadh can be purchased online or on-site at stations.
Taxis
If you’re travelling in the city, then taking a taxi can offer you a convenient and comfortable mode of domestic transportation. It’s always a good idea to negotiate the fare charges before heading out to your destination if your taxi is not metered.
Rental Car
Rental Cars are always the best go-to option if you prefer convenience over the other restricted public transportation modes in the city. The expansion of the impressive highway networks interconnecting the major cities in Riyadh will let you freely wander the far borders of the kingdom.
If you are looking for a vehicle to explore the kingdom’s far stretched sandy roads along the deserts, the best option you could go for is a 4*4 car or truck. Generally, 4*4 vehicle rentals come off a bit pricey, so if you are on a budget or are looking for an everyday vehicle to get yourself around the city, you could always go for a much cheaper option.
These are the requirements for renting a car in Riyadh;
- A valid driver’s license
- An International Driving Permit(aka IDP)
- Almost all the road signs and speed limits will be in Arabic
- There are speed cameras on every road
- There will be frequent Police and Army checkpoints. It’s better to have your Passport and car registration documents at hand.
- Playing music at times of call for prayer is strictly forbidden