Saudi Arabia’s capital marked an urban mobility milestone with the launch of its first Metro system on December 1, addressing a critical transportation issue where “a 5 km journey sometimes takes an hour,” according to transportation experts.The multi-billion-dollar Riyadh Metro project represents a fundamental shift in public transportation in a city where residents have historically relied almost entirely on private vehicles.For all the latest headlines follow our Google News channel online or via the app.Phased openingThe Riyadh Metro is opening in three phases. The Blue Line, which is 38 kilometers (24 miles) long, was one of the first lines to partially open, alongside the Yellow and Purple Lines, and runs north to south through Downtown Riyadh.The Red and Green Lines launched on December 15, while the Orange Line is scheduled to open by January 5, 2025.‘Easing gridlock’“Alternative means of transport outside of cars are necessary. Riyadh is gridlocked,” Nazar Musa, CEO at