Saudi Arabia is moving forward with its ambitious public transportation plans, recently issuing a tender for preliminary design consultancy work on the Jeddah Metro’s Blue Line. The announcement, made in early January and reported by MEED, signals a renewed commitment to the project after a period of reassessment and delays. This development is expected to significantly improve connectivity within Jeddah, the Kingdom’s second-largest city, and ease transportation challenges for residents and visitors alike.
The tender, open to consultancy firms until March, focuses specifically on the Blue Line, a crucial segment of the larger metro network. This line will stretch approximately 35 kilometers, providing a direct link between King Abdulaziz International Airport and the Haramain High-Speed Railway station. The Jeddah Development Authority is the client overseeing the project.
Reviving the Jeddah Metro Project
The Jeddah Metro was initially conceived in the early 2010s as part of a broader effort to modernize the city’s infrastructure. Around 2013-2014, the project gained momentum and was integrated into a comprehensive public transport program. Initial work progressed rapidly, with key contracts awarded to international firms.
In 2014, Systra, a French engineering company, was appointed to undertake preliminary engineering studies. Simultaneously, Aecom, a US-based firm, secured a SR276 million contract to provide pre-program management consultancy services, focusing on the early planning and design phases of the entire metro system. The following year, Foster + Partners, a UK architectural firm, was selected to design the metro stations.
Factors Contributing to Previous Delays
However, progress stalled after 2015 due to shifting government priorities. A significant decline in global oil prices prompted a reevaluation of public spending across the Kingdom, impacting large-scale infrastructure projects like the Jeddah Metro. This led to a comprehensive review of the project’s scope, estimated costs, and the proposed delivery model, resulting in a prolonged pause in development.
The initial plans envisioned a complex, multi-line network designed to integrate seamlessly with existing bus services and other urban mobility solutions. This ambitious scope, while intended to provide comprehensive coverage, likely contributed to the challenges in securing funding and streamlining the project for efficient execution.
The Scope of the Overall Jeddah Metro Network
According to information released by Jeddah Transport Company, the complete Jeddah Metro system is planned to encompass four distinct lines. These lines will collectively span over 161 kilometers, incorporating 81 stations and a fleet of 197 trains. The network aims to address growing transportation demands and promote sustainable urban development.
Beyond the Blue Line, the proposed network includes the Orange Line, designed to run along Al-Madinah Road and Old Makkah Road. The Green Line will serve the central areas of Jeddah, while the Red Line will connect King Abdullah Stadium to Old Makkah Street via major arterial roads. Each line is intended to cater to specific commuter needs and enhance accessibility to key destinations.
The resumption of the Blue Line tender represents the first tangible step towards reactivating the broader Jeddah Metro project. This focused approach allows authorities to demonstrate progress on a critical segment of the network while continuing to refine plans for the remaining lines. The project is also expected to stimulate economic activity in the region, creating jobs and attracting investment.
The revival of the metro project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the economy and improving the quality of life for citizens. Investing in public transportation is a key component of this vision, promoting sustainable urban growth and reducing reliance on private vehicles. Improved public transport options are seen as essential for accommodating the Kingdom’s growing population and supporting its economic ambitions.
The focus on the Blue Line, connecting the airport and high-speed rail, is particularly significant given the increasing number of tourists and business travelers visiting Jeddah. This connection will streamline travel for visitors and facilitate access to the city’s commercial and religious centers. Furthermore, the project is anticipated to alleviate traffic congestion, a persistent challenge in Jeddah, and improve air quality. The development of infrastructure is a key priority for the Saudi government.
Looking ahead, the Jeddah Development Authority will evaluate the proposals submitted for the Blue Line consultancy contract. A decision is expected in the coming months, with the selected firm tasked with finalizing the design and preparing the project for the next phase of development. While a firm timeline for the completion of the entire metro network remains uncertain, the renewed focus on the Blue Line suggests a commitment to bringing the project to fruition. Further announcements regarding the funding and construction schedules for the other lines are anticipated as the Blue Line progresses. The success of this initial phase will likely influence the pace and scope of future expansions to the rail network.
