Saudi Arabia’s historic new Riyadh Metro system will operate six train lines across 176km, making it the world’s largest infrastructure development. Construction on lines 4, 5, and 6 was completed by the Samsung C&T Engineering and Construction (E&C) Group, showcasing advanced construction techniques to ensure safety and efficiency.
The Riyadh Metro, built by Samsung C&T’s E&C Group, officially commenced operations on December 1. As Saudi Arabia’s first urban transit system, it spans six lines and 176km, making it the largest infrastructure project of its kind globally.
Starting December 1, Lines 1, 4, and 6 will operate fully, followed by Lines 2 and 5 on December 15 and Line 3 on January 5, 2025. The fully automated Riyadh Metro will feature driverless operations, showcasing modern urban transit innovations.
A grand inauguration ceremony took place at the Riyadh Royal Palace, with Saudi royalty, senior officials, and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) in attendance. King Salman bin Abdulaziz personally announced the launch of the metro, underscoring its significance.
Samsung C&T’s Role in the Riyadh Metro Project
The Samsung C&T E&C Group constructed Lines 4, 5, and 6 of the new Riyadh Metro in partnership with Spain’s FCC and other consortium members. The three metro routes, totaling 70km, include 29 stations and 24km of overpasses, connecting key Riyadh locations such as King Khalid International Airport and King Abdullah Financial District.
Samsung C&T E&C Group has a strong track record in global railway projects, including the construction of Seoul Metropolitan Subway Lines 3, 7, and 9. Internationally, the company has undertaken significant projects such as Singapore’s North East Line Extension and the Downtown Line 3 Extension, scheduled for completion in 2029.
Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030
The Riyadh Metro is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s “Saudi Vision 2030,” aiming to boost economic development, enhance urban mobility, and improve residents’ quality of life by significantly reducing travel times.
Cutting-Edge Construction Technology
During the construction of the Riyadh Metro, the Samsung C&T E&C Group utilized advanced construction methods:
- Full Span Launching Method (FSLM)
FSLM involves prefabricating spans of bridges offsite and installing them onsite. This approach reduced construction time and enhanced safety. The precast method is widely used across a range of civil engineering projects such as bridges, tunnels, stations, and caissons.
- Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs)
TBM tunneling utilizes advanced mechanized and automated techniques for tasks such as tunnel excavation and the removal of excavated materials like rock and soil. During the development of Riyadh Metro’s Line 5, Samsung C&T E&C Group used two large-scale TBMs, each with a 9.8m diameter, setting a world record for daily excavation length.
Samsung C&T Sets Sights on Future Expansion Worldwide
Building on the success of the Riyadh Metro, Samsung C&T aims to expand its portfolio across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australia, focusing on infrastructure and power plant projects.
Choi Young-hun, Vice President of Samsung C&T Riyadh Metro, remarked, “It’s an honor to have played a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s first urban transit project, the world’s largest of its kind. Despite numerous challenges during construction, our advanced technical expertise and dedication enabled us to complete the Riyadh Metro successfully.”
