Riyadh’s metro stations redefine urban transit with iconic designs
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The long-awaited Riyadh Metro launched on Sunday, with promises of alleviating traffic congestion and revolutionizing public transportation in the Saudi capital. The event was marked by excitement and curiosity, as residents explored a network that combines cutting-edge engineering with world-class architectural design.
Among the stations that have captured attention are five standout facilities, four of which are part of the newly operational blue line.
King Abdullah Financial District Station (KAFD)
Arguably the most iconic station of the Riyadh Metro, the 42,000-square-meter KAFD Station was designed by the internationally acclaimed Zaha Hadid Architects. The station serves as a crucial hub, linking the blue, yellow, and purple lines. As the terminus for visitors traveling from Riyadh’s airport to the financial district, it also facilitates southbound journeys into the city center. Its futuristic design reinforces its prominence as a gateway to Riyadh’s burgeoning financial district.
STC Station
Strategically located in the city center, the STC Station connects the blue and red lines. Designed by Germany’s Gerber Architekten, the station draws inspiration from the natural limestone formations of the nearby Tuwaiq mountains. The station features an open-air plaza and four underground levels extending 30 meters below the surface, offering both functionality and a visual nod to the city’s natural landscape.
Qasr Al-Hokm Station
Located in the historic district, the Qasr Al-Hokm Station connects the blue and orange lines. Its stainless-steel canopy and spacious outdoor plaza are the work of Norwegian architectural firm Snohetta. The station’s design complements the heritage of the surrounding area while serving as a key transit point for commuters.
National Museum Station
The National Museum Station, spanning 19,400 square meters, serves Riyadh’s Al-Batha neighborhood by connecting the blue and green lines. Its proximity to the National Museum underscores its role as a cultural gateway for both locals and tourists.
Western Station
Omrania, a Riyadh-based international architecture firm, designed the Western Station, located at the site of a former vegetable market. Situated at the orange line’s terminus, the station will become operational in January. The design balances the site’s historical significance with its new role in Riyadh’s modern transit network.
The Riyadh Metro’s blue line marks the beginning of a broader vision to modernize the city’s transportation infrastructure. With its blend of functional efficiency and architectural excellence, the metro is poised to become a vital part of daily life in Riyadh, offering a glimpse into the future of urban mobility.