How Does Public Transport Work in Saudi Arabia?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Riyadh has a modern 6-line metro (opened 2024), Uber and Careem operate widely, and the Haramain High Speed Railway connects Jeddah and Mecca.
2What You Need to Know
Riyadh's metro system opened in 2024 with 6 lines covering major districts and is clean, air-conditioned, and affordable. Uber and Careem are the most practical options for getting around cities and are widely used by both tourists and residents. SAPTCO operates intercity buses connecting major cities. The Haramain High Speed Railway links Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina — note that non-Muslims cannot travel to or from Mecca stations as checkpoints enforce this restriction. Traditional taxis exist but Uber and Careem are strongly preferred for transparency on price.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Download both the Uber and Careem apps before arriving — they are the most convenient way to get around any Saudi city
- 2Riyadh Metro requires a rechargeable Darb card, available at station kiosks on arrival
- 3Non-Muslims are prohibited from entering Mecca or Medina — checkpoints on all entry roads enforce this strictly
Important Warning
Non-Muslims attempting to enter Mecca or Medina face serious legal consequences. The restriction is enforced by physical checkpoints on all approach roads.
How does this compare?
Public Transport rules in nearby and similar countries:
Dubai has an excellent metro and buses. Buy a Nol Card for all public transport in Dubai. Abu Dhabi has buses but no metro yet.
Use the Cairo Metro for cheap city travel, and Uber or Careem for safe, fairly-priced taxis.
ONCF trains connect major cities reliably, while petit taxis serve city travel and CTM buses cover intercity routes not on the rail network.
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More About Saudi Arabia
Tipping is welcomed but not mandatory — 10–15% at restaurants is appreciated, and 10–20 SAR for hotel staff is standard.
Updated 2025-06
Healthcare quality is excellent at private hospitals, but costs are very high — travel insurance is essential.
Updated 2025-06
Alcohol is completely banned, drugs carry the death penalty, LGBT relationships are illegal, and criticizing the royal family is a criminal offense.
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Police: 999. Ambulance and fire: 911. Tourist police hotline: 920004444.
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Foreign women are no longer required to wear an abaya, but modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected in public.
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Alcohol is completely and absolutely banned throughout Saudi Arabia — there are no exceptions, no licensed venues, and no tolerance whatsoever.
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