Zaha Hadid Architects' Metro Station opens in Riyadh

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Metro Station opens in Riyadh

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Metro Station. Hufton + Crow Photography

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Metro Station, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the heart of the system, officially begins passenger service on December 1.

The King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Metro Station, spanning 176 kilometers with six lines and 85 stations, the network is the world’s longest driverless transit system, capable of transporting up to 3.6 million passengers daily.

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Metro Station. Hufton + Crow Photography

This key interchange features six rail platforms across four levels and connects with bus services and park-and-ride facilities, creating a major transport hub for Riyadh.

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Metro Station. Hufton + Crow Photography

The station’s design focuses on seamless connectivity, with traffic flows modeled to optimize movement and prevent congestion. Its unique structure is shaped by a three-dimensional lattice inspired by overlapping sinewaves, reflecting the rhythm of daily passenger movement.

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Metro Station. Hufton + Crow Photography

Energy efficiency is central to the station’s operation, and passive design elements, renewable-powered cooling systems, and sliding platform doors that conserve cool air contribute to its LEED Gold certification for sustainability.

Zaha Hadid Architects’ Metro Station. Hufton + Crow Photography