Riyadh Launches $2.13 Billion road expansion to Ease Congestion, Support Vision 2030
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Riyadh is undertaking a massive overhaul of its transportation infrastructure with the announcement of over $2.13 billion in new road development projects, designed to alleviate traffic congestion and bolster the city’s position as a regional logistics hub. The initiative directly supports the aspiring goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
A Key Component of Riyadh’s Conversion
The new projects, valued at more than SR8 billion, represent “Package 3” of the Riyadh Main and Ring Road Axes Development Program, a cornerstone initiative aimed at enhancing mobility throughout the Saudi capital. According to the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), the six major projects are slated for completion within the next three to four years.
“This program is vital to unlocking Riyadh’s full potential as a global city,” a senior official stated. “Improved transportation networks are essential for economic growth and quality of life.”
Project Breakdown: Expanding Capacity Across Riyadh
The package encompasses a diverse range of projects targeting key arteries throughout the city.Here’s a detailed look at the planned improvements:
- Jeddah Road Development Project (29km) – This project will add 14 bridges and five main lanes, increasing the route’s capacity to accommodate up to 353,000 vehicles daily.
- Taif Road Development Project (15km) – Focused on improving connectivity between Riyadh’s southern and western districts and the city center,the project will feature four bridges,four lanes,and two tunnels,with a capacity of 200,000 vehicles per day.
- Thumamah Road development Project – Eastern section (8km) – This section will connect key mobility axes in northern and eastern Riyadh with three bridges and three tunnels, supporting traffic volumes of up to 200,000 vehicles per day.
- King Abdulaziz Road Development Project – Northern Section (4.7km) – Expansion of this key route will include four bridges, four lanes, and one tunnel, boosting traffic capacity to 450,000 vehicles per day.
- Othman bin Affan Road Development Project – Northern Section (4.3km) – Featuring seven bridges and extensive upgrades, this project aims to enhance traffic flow across northern riyadh, supporting up to 500,000 vehicles per day.
- engineering Enhancements for Congested Areas – Phase II – Targeting eight locations across Riyadh’s road network,this phase will utilize advanced engineering solutions to reduce congestion and improve intersection performance,increasing traffic capacity by 40-60 percent.
Minimizing Disruption During Construction
the RCRC has emphasized its commitment to minimizing disruption during the construction phase. A complete traffic diversion plan, coordinated with city authorities, will be implemented to ensure uninterrupted mobility for commuters and residents.
A Vision Realized: From Directive to Development
The ambitious road development program originated in February 2020,when Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud,Crown Prince,Prime Minister and Chairman of the RCRC Board of Directors,directed the development of Riyadh’s major road axes as part of a broader capital transformation.
Following this directive, the RCRC launched Package 1 in August 2024, valued at SR13 billion ($3.46 billion), and Package 2 in February 2025, exceeding SR8 billion ($2.13 billion). The commission has indicated that further phases of the program will be announced as Riyadh continues to invest heavily in infrastructure to align with the goals of Vision 2030.
This ongoing investment signals Riyadh’s commitment to becoming a world-class capital city, equipped to handle future growth and solidify its role as a leading regional hub.
