The first phase of the Circular Roads Development Program includes four major projects that will lay the foundation for Riyadh’s future.
 

Riyadh is embarking on a transformative journey to redefine its urban landscape and transportation infrastructure with the launch of the Circular Roads Development Program. Spearheaded by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), this ambitious initiative is set to significantly enhance the city’s road network, bolstering Riyadh’s standing as a global metropolis and a central hub for sustainable transportation and logistics in the Middle East.

A vision aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

The Circular Roads Development Program is a key component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to position Riyadh as a leading global city. By improving the city’s road infrastructure, the program will facilitate better connectivity, support the capital’s rapid population growth, and meet its future transportation needs. The initiative underlines Riyadh’s commitment to becoming a modern, vibrant city that attracts global investment and enhances the quality of life for its residents and visitors.

Breaking ground: The first phase of the program

With a budget exceeding $3.46 billion (SAR 13 billion), the first phase of the Circular Roads Development Program includes four major projects that will lay the foundation for Riyadh’s future. These projects are designed to improve traffic flow, reduce travel times, and increase driving speeds, thereby addressing the city’s growing demands.

One of the most significant undertakings in the first phase is the construction of the Second Southern Ring Road. Spanning 56 kilometres, this road will connect the new Al-Kharj Road in the east to Jeddah Road in the west. The project will include four lanes for the main road and three lanes for service roads in each direction. To facilitate smooth traffic flow, 10 major intersections and 32 bridges will be constructed along the route.

In a bid to enhance connectivity, two parallel bridges will be constructed alongside the existing Wadi Laban suspension bridge. This will be accompanied by the expansion of the Western Ring Road at its intersection with Jeddah Road. The development will cover a 4-kilometre stretch and include two new bridges, along with four additional bridges at the junction.

Another key project involves the development of the western section of the Thumama Road Axis. This 6- 6-kilometre stretch will run from King Khalid Road in the west to King Fahd Road in the east, significantly improving east-west connectivity across Riyadh.

The program also includes the extension of Taif Road in the Laban neighbourhood to the Qiddiya project, a future entertainment and cultural hub. This 16-kilometre extension will connect the western end of Taif Road in Laban to Qiddiya, facilitating easier access to one of Riyadh’s most anticipated developments.

Ensuring smooth traffic flow during construction

The RCRC has emphasised its commitment to maintaining smooth traffic flow during the construction of these projects. To minimise disruptions, a comprehensive traffic diversion management plan has been developed in collaboration with relevant city agencies. This proactive approach aims to ensure that residents and visitors can continue to navigate the city with minimal inconvenience while these critical infrastructure improvements are underway.

A future-ready Riyadh

Launched in 2019 by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, the Circular Roads Development Program is a monumental initiative that will shape Riyadh’s future. The program encompasses over 500 kilometres of road development, including the construction of new roads, the upgrading of existing main roads, and the enhancement of their connectivity.

The impact of the program will extend far beyond improved transportation. By accommodating Riyadh’s rapid growth, supporting large-scale development projects, and meeting the city’s current and future needs, the initiative will drive economic, urban, environmental, cultural, and tourism growth. It will also elevate Riyadh’s competitiveness as a global business and investment destination.

With the first phase of projects expected to take three to four years to complete, Riyadh is on the brink of a new era. The Circular Roads Development Program is not just about roads—it’s about paving the way for Riyadh’s transformation into a world-class city that is prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.