RAIL & TRANSIT
Transforming urban transit: IDOM’s role in Riyadh Metro Line 3
JANUARY 05, 2025
The Riyadh Metro project stands as one of the most ambitious urban transport infrastructure undertakings globally, designed to reshape mobility in Saudi Arabia’s capital city. Among its six metro lines, the Orange line, also known as Line 3, is the longest one, and IDOM is proud to have played a central role in its design and execution.
The Orange line (Line 3) is set to commence passenger operations on 05 January 2025, in line with the planned phased operational rollout of the network.
The Riyadh Metro Orange Line is not only a transportation system, but a testimony to the city’s growth and modernity
Our strategic role in Orange Line
Spanning 41 kilometers, Orange Line traverses diverse terrains and urban landscapes, requiring innovative solutions to address its unique challenges. IDOM, as the principal designer within the ANM Consortium, led the concept and detailed design of the line’s critical elements, including:
- 22 stations encompassing underground, at-grade, and elevated configurations.
- 23 km of viaducts, integrating structural elegance with urban functionality.
- 6 km of tunnels, expertly designed to minimize disruptions in densely populated areas.
- 2 depots
Our multidisciplinary approach ensured seamless integration of architecture, engineering, and railway systems, achieving cost-effective and user-centered solutions.
Innovation and technology at the core
IDOM used advanced tools throughout the design process, enabling precise simulations, minimizing delays, and ensuring efficient coordination across disciplines. This digital-first approach facilitated:
- Optimized energy efficiency, incorporating sustainable materials and technologies to reduce operational costs.
- Enhanced passenger experience, with intuitive layouts and designs tailored for ease of navigation.
A design that reflects Riyadh’s identity
The Orange line (Line 3) is more than just a transit system, it is a testament to Riyadh’s growth and modernity. At IDOM, we blended contemporary architectural practices with cultural sensitivity, crafting stations that balance functionality with visual appeal. From reinterpreting traditional materials and shading techniques to introducing natural light in underground stations, every detail was considered to enrich passenger comfort and urban integration.
Overcoming challenges
Designing for a bustling, fast-growing city like Riyadh brought significant challenges, including:
- Navigating narrow streets: Underground stations were tailored to fit within dense neighbourhoods like Batha, ensuring accessibility while enhancing spatial quality.
- Climate conditions: Durable, climate-resilient materials and innovative cooling systems were taking into consideration Riyadh’s climatic conditions.
By addressing these challenges head-on, IDOM delivered designs that are not only resilient but future-proof.
Looking ahead
As we celebrate the official inauguration of the Riyadh Metro network on 27 November, we reflect on the significance of this project. On 05 January 2025, the Orange line (Line 3) is set to commence passenger operations, serving millions of residents and visitors, reducing congestion, lowering environmental impact, and enhancing connectivity across the city.
At IDOM, we are proud to have contributed to a project that embodies innovation, sustainability, and progress. As Riyadh steps into a new era of urban mobility, Riyadh Metro’s Orange line will stand as a benchmark for infrastructure excellence in the region.
