In brief
Riyadh’s metro system was named among the leading four transport projects worldwide at the 2026 Smart City Expo in Barcelona, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The accolade came amid 533 entries from 68 countries. The award highlights the metro’s scale, advanced technology and key role in the kingdom’s sustainable mobility strategy.
In a ceremony held in Barcelona on 5 November 2026, the Riyadh Metro was announced as one of the world’s top four transport projects, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The recognition was given during the Smart City Expo World Congress, an international event that attracted 533 submissions representing 68 countries.
The announcement came from the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), which manages the metro system.
The commission said the project’s size and use of advanced technology earned it a place among the world’s largest and most modern public transport systems.
According to the RCRC, the metro forms a core part of Saudi Arabia’s plan for environmentally friendly urban mobility, aiming to cut carbon emissions and improve traffic flow in the growing capital.
The metro’s design also accommodates Riyadh’s expanding population, with new lines scheduled to serve future urban development zones.
During the expo, the RCRC showcased Riyadh’s data‑driven approach to city planning, highlighting the Riyadh Data Hub, digital twin models and artificial intelligence tools being applied to transport management.
Additional projects highlighted by the commission include the Green Riyadh programme and several major development initiatives aimed at reducing urban congestion.
The congress, themed “Urban Solutions, Real Impact,” attracted more than 600 international speakers who discussed digital transformation, mobility, energy, housing and infrastructure.
Both the Saudi Press Agency and the RCRC emphasised that the award reflects Riyadh’s leadership in building modern and sustainable transport networks.
Both sources noted that the accolade comes at a time of rapid urban expansion in Saudi Arabia, with the metro positioned to support future growth.
While no other local media outlet released a statement about the award, the RCRC’s official message remains the primary source for this recognition.
The announcement underscores Riyadh’s commitment to keep pace with global standards in urban mobility and to offer citizens a clean, efficient transportation option.
