King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) announced a pioneering 3.6-kilometer autonomous monorail project to modernize Riyadh’s transit system. This innovative monorail project was unveiled during the 8th Future Investment Initiative (FII) conference held recently in Riyadh city. This milestone demonstrates Riyadh’s commitment to creating a sustainable and efficient transportation system that aligns with modern urban mobility goals. The agreement was signed with a consortium led by CRRC Nanjing Puzhen and Hassan Allam Construction Saudi in Riyadh. The consortium will also feature CRRC Hong Kong as a partner, adding international expertise to this ambitious project.
Enhancing Connectivity Across Riyadh
The monorail system will operate six driverless trains running on a circular track with six strategically placed stations in KAFD. This track layout will facilitate easy movement between office buildings, retail areas, and various entertainment venues within the KAFD. Integrating the monorail with the Riyadh Metro will ensure seamless and environmentally friendly transfers throughout the city. This integration aligns with KAFD’s “10-Minute City” vision, enhancing access to essential amenities for residents and visitors. The vision promotes placing key facilities within a short walking distance, creating a convenient urban experience in Riyadh.
Boosting Riyadh’s Sustainability and Accessibility Goals
The autonomous system aims to transport up to 3,500 passengers per hour during peak times. Designed for Riyadh’s bustling urban environment, the monorail project reflects KAFD’s vision of creating a walkable, interconnected community while reducing dependence on private vehicles. “The monorail symbolizes progress, connecting the district and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030,” noted Stephen Thomas, COO of KAFD DMC. The system’s fully automated trains represent a leap in urban transit innovation, seamlessly blending safety and sustainability.
KAFD: A Visionary Urban District
KAFD spans 1.6 million square meters as a transformative mixed-use development with 95 buildings, including Grade A offices, upscale residences, diverse retail spaces, and luxury hospitality. The district, designed to encourage walkability, showcases Saudi Arabia’s ambitions for futuristic, sustainable urban living.
Global Collaboration for Future-Ready Transport
Systra, a French firm specializing in technical and engineering services, will supervise the project. The monorail’s design, featuring six trains with two carriages each, promises a safe and efficient commute for KAFD’s residents and visitors. Amr Allam, Co-CEO of Hassan Allam Holding, expressed pride in supporting the project, calling it a “landmark development in Riyadh” that will enhance urban transportation and drive sustainable growth.
As timelines for completion remain undisclosed, the Riyadh monorail stands as a landmark initiative in urban mobility, positioning KAFD as a global model for future transportation innovation.
