A striking new metro station designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has debuted in Riyadh, marking the launch of the world's longest driverless transit system.

Opened on December 1, 2024, the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Metro Station, with its distinctive undulating lattice façade, now serves as a key interchange in the 176-km network. It spans six lines and 85 stations across the Saudi capital.

The station's design incorporates ultra-high-performance concrete panels featuring geometric perforations that reduce solar gain while paying homage to traditional regional architecture and desert wind patterns. This attention to environmental performance has earned the project LEED Gold certification. According to ZHA, the station's layout was developed using predictive modelling of rail, car, and pedestrian traffic flows to optimise efficiency and reduce congestion. The design integrates the external envelope with internal structure to support both train platforms and viaducts.The hub connects rail services with bus routes and park-and-ride facilities, while providing direct access to the KAFD monorail skybridge and a link to King Khalid International Airport. Both indoor and outdoor plazas have been incorporated to create public spaces.

Energy efficiency features include sliding door panels on platforms to retain cool air and a high-efficiency cooling system powered by renewable energy that adjusts to passenger numbers throughout the day.The Riyadh Metro network, developed by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), aims to serve 3.6 million passengers daily.

The system's first phase, comprising the Blue, Yellow, and Purple lines, now connects key districts, business centres, and cultural landmarks across the city.The project represents a major initiative to reduce car dependency and promote sustainable transport in the rapidly growing Saudi capital.