Riyadh Transportation History and Developing Vision

Riyadh is the capital city of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is both a rapidly moving microcosm of worldwide trends in transportation, and a unique case study. The aim of this study is to investigate the reasons behind rising car ownership and its impact on public transportation. This paper charts the historical development of the city and presents the key factors that have shaped the transport network, including governmental motivation, urban planning and financial and demographic aspects. The study reviewed the history of the Riyadh transportation system and either component during the last five decades and the factors that have made Riyadh's situation unique. From oasis to Metropolis there are many pressing issues. Resolving these requires much more than narrow technical solutions. Instead, consideration of a much broader range of factors is needed. Riyadh is presented as a city case study and the key challenges are illuminated.