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Riyadh Metro: 100 million riders, bright new 5:30am start

This schedule adjustment comes in direct response to growing commuter demand and is aimed at reducing congestion during peak hours

Nida Sohail
Nida Sohail

07 September, 2025

Riyadh Metro: 100 million riders, bright new 5:30am start
Image credit: Saudi Press Agency/ Website

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In a move designed to better accommodate students, early-shift workers, and morning commuters, Riyadh Metro will now start daily operations at 5:30am, the city’s public transport authority has confirmed.

This schedule adjustment comes in direct response to growing commuter demand and is aimed at reducing congestion during peak hours, particularly on busy corridors.

Image credit: Saudi Press Agency/ Website

Officials stated that the change is also part of Riyadh’s broader push to cut private vehicle use and improve air quality, a Saudi Gazette report said.

Read more-Riyadh Metro: 5 ways it will boost transport in Saudi’s biggest city

The move supports Riyadh’s ongoing strategy to expand and modernise its public transit network in line with the capital’s sustainability and quality-of-life objectives.

100 million passengers since December launch

The new operating hours follow an impressive milestone: Riyadh Metro has served over 100 million passengers since it launched in December 2024, according to the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC).

Image credit: Saudi Press Agency/ Website

According to a Saudi Press Agency report, This achievement was reached in less than nine months, highlighting the rapid adoption and popularity of the metro system. The Blue Line, which runs along the Olaya-Batha corridor, saw the highest ridership with 46.5 million passengers, followed by the Red Line on King Abdullah Road with 17 million and the Orange Line on Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Road with 12 million. The other three lines together transported 24.5 million riders.

Punctual and popular

Riyadh Metro has also earned praise for its punctuality, recording an operational on-time rate of 99.78 per cent. Some of the busiest stations include Qasr Al Hokm, KAFD, stc, and the National Museum, which together accounted for over 29 per cent of total passenger traffic.

Seamlessly connected to a wide-reaching bus network, on-demand shuttles, and public transport parking facilities, the metro is a key part of Riyadh’s vision for a modern, accessible, and eco-friendly transportation ecosystem. Authorities say these efforts aim to provide convenient, reliable alternatives to private car use for both residents and visitors.

Aldar to build UAE’s first Tesla Experience Centre on Yas Island

Strategically located along the E12 with excellent connections to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the new Tesla centre will be completed by 2027

Neesha Salian
Neesha Salian

07 September, 2025

Aldar to build UAE’s first Tesla Experience Centre on Yas Island
Image: Supplied

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Aldar announced today plans to deliver the UAE’s first Tesla Experience Centre on Yas Island.

The build-to-suit facility will bring together a showroom, service centre and delivery hall into a single integrated site.

This development further enhances Yas Island’s growing reputation as one of the UAE’s most strategic locations for global brands to have a presence, and reflects Aldar’s position as a partner of choice for international clients seeking prime build-to-suit real estate in the UAE.

Developed across a leasable area of more than 5,000 sqm, the facility is designed to deliver an elevated customer experience and optimise operational efficiency, strengthening Tesla’s local presence and supporting its long-term growth strategy in the UAE.

Jassem Saleh Busaibe, CEO at Aldar Investment, said: “This build-to-suit development for one of the world’s most recognisable brands represents another step in the evolution of Aldar’s industrial and logistics offerings. It reflects the confidence global companies have in Aldar as a partner of choice, and in Yas Island as a strategic base for long-term growth.”

Pawel Trzpis, GM at Tesla Middle East, said: “We are excited to expand our operations in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, with our first purpose-built site. We look forward to welcoming our current and future customers to experience this site upon its public opening. This milestone solidifies our focus and commitment to expanding in the region.”

Tesla Experience Centre: Key highlights

The centre will feature 170 dedicated parking spaces equipped with 20 V4 Tesla Supercharger stalls, complementing the full suite of integrated services offered on-site.

The facility will target Estidama 3 Pearl rating and incorporates net zero-aligned design principles, including high-efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, low-emission materials, rooftop solar power, LED lighting, and rainwater recycling systems to support landscaping and facility operations.

Strategically located along the E12 with excellent connections to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the new Tesla centre will be completed by 2027.

Dubai Metro Blue Line: Traffic diversions announced

Key among these is the closure of the road leading to the multi-storey car park at Centrepoint Station from Airport Road.

Nida Sohail
Nida Sohail

06 September, 2025

Dubai Metro Blue Line: Traffic diversions announced
Image credit: Dubai Media Office/X account

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced traffic diversions as work begins on the highly anticipated Dubai Metro Blue Line. Key among these is the closure of the road leading to the multi-storey car park at Centrepoint Station from Airport Road.

Motorists are advised to follow directional signage at affected areas and plan alternate routes to avoid disruptions. Similar adjustments are also in effect near Creek Station, coinciding with early construction activity.

Read more-Public transport updates: Dubai Metro lines rerouted, more public bus services

The RTA is urging commuters to plan their journeys in advance to ensure a smooth and seamless travel experience during this major infrastructure phase.

Two new marine stations open on Dubai Creek

In a separate but significant development, the RTA has inaugurated two new marine transport stations: Old Dubai Souq and Al Sabkha, both strategically located along Dubai Creek, an RTA report said.

These stations mark a key milestone in the RTA’s Marine Transport Strategic Plan 2020–2030, which aims to transform water transport into a reliable and efficient mobility option for the emirate.

The project upgrades follow the model of previously renovated stations at Bur Dubai and Old Deira Souq, reinforcing the authority’s push to modernise while preserving heritage.

Major upgrades and eco-friendly design

New features include a 50 per cent expansion in shaded waiting areas, improved lighting, investment and retail spaces, and materials that are both eco-friendly and sustainable. Facilities now fully comply with Dubai’s Code for People of Determination, ensuring accessibility for all.

To improve working conditions, the RTA has also installed an air-conditioned rest area for operators of traditional wooden abras, enhancing comfort and operational efficiency.

Efficiency, speed, and safety prioritised

The RTA completed the two marine stations simultaneously to cut costs, accelerate delivery, and boost economic efficiency. An operational plan is in place to maintain trip schedules, enhance safety, and ensure smooth navigation through the area.

Marine transport ridership has already seen significant growth, with 9.7 million passengers using water transport modes in the first half of 2025 alone.

With both land and water mobility upgrades now underway, Dubai continues to strengthen its status as a global leader in smart, integrated transport solutions.

DP World launches Morocco-UK service to cut export times, emissions

DP World will formally launch the service at an event in Agadir, Morocco, on September 18

Gulf Business
Gulf Business

06 September, 2025

DP World launches Morocco-UK service to cut export times, emissions
Image: Dubai Media Office

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DP World is launching a Morocco to UK and North Europe shipping service that will cut export times for fruit and vegetable shipments by up to two days, offering retailers and consumers fresher produce at lower cost and with a reduced carbon footprint.

The new “Atlas” service will connect Agadir and Casablanca in Morocco with DP World-owned ports and terminals at London Gateway and Antwerp Gateway, using two dedicated vessels starting in November 2025.

It will also supply produce into Antwerp for distribution across Europe.

By shifting up to 150,000 tonnes of fresh produce from road to sea each year, the route will cut emissions by up to 250kg of CO₂ per tonne-km, a 70 per cent reduction compared with trucking, DP World said.

Unlike road transport over the 3,000-km journey, the sea link avoids congestion, vandalism, and border delays while offering a smoother passage for delicate produce such as tomatoes and blueberries, which are vulnerable to damage in transit.

The service will use vessels and refrigerated containers operated by DP World-owned Unifeeder, providing an alternative to the crowded water crossings between Tangier and Algeciras and Calais and Dover.

“We are launching a bespoke solution from Morocco to the UK and the Continent,” said Rashid Abdulla, MD and CEO at DP World Europe. “The key elements of this service — reliability, fast transit times and modern IT platform— will provide exporters and retailers with a viable alternative to the current transportation by truck and ensure improved quality produce at lower cost with significantly reduced carbon emissions.”

DP World invests in equipment

To ensure freshness, DP World has invested in 1,250 new refrigerated containers, along with 1,000 40-foot high cube and 750 20-foot dry containers, to meet growing cargo demand between North Europe, the UK and Morocco. Its CARGOES digital platform will offer full supply chain visibility.

Morocco exports more than 6.5 million metric tonnes of fruit and vegetables annually to Western Europe, with volumes growing at over 20 per cent a year.

Trade agreements and government policies are boosting the trend, making sea freight a timely alternative to road.

“The new service gives growers and retailers the confidence that their produce will arrive fresher, faster and in peak condition, while cutting emissions by 70 per cent,” said Markus Rodatz, COO, Freight Europe, at DP World. “By investing in this Morocco to UK and the Continent, we are making trade flow and helping our customers meet their sustainability goals.”

DP World will formally launch the service at an event in Agadir, Morocco, on September 18.

EFG Hermes and Kenzi Wealth launch intelligent risk-based portfolio advisory service

The service, called One Advisor, aims to deliver highly personalised, risk-optimised investment strategies

Gulf Business
Gulf Business

06 September, 2025

EFG Hermes and Kenzi Wealth launch intelligent risk-based portfolio advisory service

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EFG Hermes, an EFG Holding company and the leading investment bank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has partnered with Danish digital wealth management firm Kenzi Wealth to roll out a new risk-based portfolio advisory solution. The service, called One Advisor, aims to deliver highly personalised, risk-optimised investment strategies that empower clients to grow and protect their wealth in today’s volatile global markets.

Integrated into the EFG Hermes ONE app, One Advisor is designed for self-directed investors seeking greater confidence and control. Powered by Kenzi’s proprietary technology, the feature enables users to analyse portfolios before investing, diversify more effectively, rebalance when needed, and navigate uncertainty during market shifts. The service relies on institutional-grade risk modeling and analytics — tools that have traditionally been limited to private banks and elite investors.

Portfolios are actively monitored and intelligently managed, with clients receiving timely insights to ensure alignment with their individual risk appetite. A streamlined digital onboarding process further enhances the user experience, allowing investors to start their journey quickly and seamlessly.

Ahmed Waly, global head of brokerage at EFG Hermes, said: “We are delighted to introduce a transformative solution that seamlessly integrates intelligent investing with true client empowerment as we launch a sophisticated, risk-based portfolio advisory platform designed to elevate the standards of portfolio management. Our mission is to empower investors with clarity and confidence, not replace their decision-making. One Advisor is a personalised advisory service built on institutional-grade risk modeling, designed to guide clients through the complexities of global markets. Instead of merely telling investors what to buy or sell, we equip them with the insight to invest smarter, rebalance when necessary, and stay resilient in volatile conditions. Gone are the days of uncertainty in decision-making. Our automated, risk-based advisory service handles the complexities of investing, allowing clients to focus on their lives while their portfolios are expertly monitored.”

The solution also targets potential investors who may have been hesitant to enter the markets. By simplifying decision-making and providing structured support rooted in financial logic, One Advisor lowers the barrier to entry and democratises access to tools once reserved for ultra-high-net-worth families and institutions.

Mohamed El-Masri, founder and CEO of Kenzi Wealth, commented: “Partnering with EFG Hermes, the leading investment bank in the MENA region, marks a pivotal step in democratising access to innovative investment solutions. Together, we aim to break down barriers for new clients entering the space, offering tools that simplify the process while maintaining the sophistication of institutional-grade portfolio management. At Kenzi, we don’t just suggest; we listen, think, plan, and act based on each investor’s unique story. This personalised approach is what sets us apart – we provide the sophistication and structure of an institutional portfolio manager while ensuring it remains simple for clients and that they retain full control over their decisions. Through our collaboration with EFG Hermes, we are bringing to life a model that seamlessly blends automation with accountability and intelligence, complemented by human intent. Our mission is clear: to empower every investor with the clarity, confidence, and tools they need to navigate the financial markets and achieve their goals. Together, we are redefining personalised investing.”

Read: EFG Holding posts strong Q2 2025 growth driven by diversified performance

The service is currently available exclusively on the Global Markets edition of the EFG Hermes ONE app. Existing clients can activate One Advisor in just a few clicks, while new clients can access it by opening a global market account through a fully digital onboarding process.

EFG Hermes said the launch represents a significant step forward in making professional-grade portfolio advisory services accessible, intuitive, and responsive — marking what it calls “a new era of portfolio advisory,” where investors can plan smarter, invest more effectively, and navigate global markets with confidence.

Dubai Sotheby’s closes Dhs161m Palm Jumeirah villa sale, sets new pricing record

The residence spans 10,900 square feet, with six bedroom suites, multiple living areas, a private cinema and a pool deck overlooking the Atlantis the Royal Resort & Residences

Neesha Salian
Neesha Salian

06 September, 2025

Dubai Sotheby’s closes Dhs161m Palm Jumeirah villa sale, sets new pricing record
Images: Supplied

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Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty closed the most expensive secondary villa sale on Palm Jumeirah this year, at Dhs161m ($43.8m).

The deal, which also marked the second-highest sale on a per square foot basis in 2025 at Dhs14,679.39, involved a ‘Signature Villa’ developed by property firm 25 Degrees.

The residence spans 10,900 square feet, with six bedroom suites, multiple living areas, a private cinema and a pool deck overlooking the Atlantis the Royal Resort & Residences.

The sale was exclusively managed by Dubai Sotheby’s, with executive partner Leigh Borg representing the seller and senior global property consultant Filippo Tavernaro acting on behalf of the buyer.

“This was a rare and exclusive listing that stood out even in a highly competitive market,” Borg said. “Every aspect of the property was executed at the highest level, and with the calibre of clients that Palm Jumeirah attracts, homes like this don’t stay on the market for very long.”

Tavernaro added: “Transactions like this are made possible thanks to the strength of the network and the global platform we have. It is also a testament to the quality of the homes available. The price tag is no bar for buyers when the property ticks all the boxes.”

Image: Supplied

Dubai’s real estate market has maintained strong momentum in 2025 with landmark sales across Jumeirah Bay Island, Emirates Hills and Dubai Hills Estate.

Dubai Sotheby’s recent sale

Sotheby’s recently closed this year’s most expensive residential plot sale, also on Palm Jumeirah.

“With every landmark transaction, we reinforce our position as the foremost authority in Dubai’s super-prime property market,” said Chris Whitehead, managing partner at Dubai Sotheby’s. “This marks our second record-breaking sale on Palm Jumeirah in recent months. To me, this underlines not only the prestige of the location but also the strength of demand at the very top of the market, setting the tone for a powerful close to 2025.”

David von Rosen, co-founder of 25 Degrees, said: “This sale is a clear sign of the strength and maturity of Dubai’s top-end property market, driven by a continued influx of high-net-worth individuals looking to capitalise on the Emirates’ world-leading luxury lifestyle opportunities.”

It is the second record-breaking sale of a villa developed by 25 Degrees, following its Dhs62m Garden Home transaction in 2024.

The firm in June purchased a 90,000 square foot plot on Palm Jumeirah for Dhs365m and has partnered with architect Killa Design to deliver a series of custom-built properties on the site.

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