Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council has called for comprehensive studies to establish metro systems across the Kingdom’s major cities, aiming to modernize urban mobility and support the nation’s Vision 2030 goals, according to a report by Asharq Al-Awsat.
During its recent session, the council emphasised the need for the Public Transport Authority to enhance training initiatives in collaboration with the Saudi Logistics Academy to boost workforce capabilities in the transportation sector.
Members also pushed for improved standards to assess the quality of shuttle transport services, particularly those used by pilgrims, highlighting the need for efficient, high-capacity operations during peak seasons.
The council recommended increasing the passenger capacity and operating speeds of the national railway system to align with the Haramain High-Speed Railway, which connects the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah and serves as a key pillar in facilitating pilgrim travel.
Riyadh's metro network, launched in December and fully operational since January, stands as a landmark project in the country’s push for sustainable transport. In addition, intercity rail links between Riyadh, the Eastern Province and the Northern Borders region continue to play a vital role in domestic mobility.
Expanding metro infrastructure and enhancing rail efficiency are seen as critical to reducing urban traffic congestion and cutting carbon emissions, in line with the Kingdom’s broader sustainability targets under Vision 2030.