Dubai vs Doha vs Riyadh: Metro Edition

 

When you think of the Gulf region, you probably imagine gleaming skyscrapers, luxury cars, and mega highways weaving through desert landscapes. But scratch the surface, and you will find something equally ambitious — a new era of metro systems changing how millions live, commute, and travel in three of the region’s most dynamic cities: Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh.

As someone who advises executives, consultants, and entrepreneurs on navigating Gulf business culture, I have seen firsthand how infrastructure shapes opportunity — and how cultural nuances still matter, even on a metro platform.

So whether you are planning a trip, relocating for work, or closing your next big deal in the Gulf, understanding these metro systems — and the etiquette that comes with them — is a smart move.

We have been on all 3 and here is what you need to know:

 

Dubai Metro: The Pioneer

• Launched: 2009
• Lines: Red Line, Green Line (expanding soon with more routes)
• Dubai Metro has long been a symbol of the city’s futuristic ambitions. Opened in 2009, it was the first urban metro network in the Arabian Peninsula — fully automated, driverless, and air-conditioned, offering a respite from Dubai’s relentless summer heat.
• Practical tip: Friday mornings used to see later start times — now with the UAE’s Saturday-Sunday weekend, be sure to check operational hours.
• Iconic stations: Many stations are architectural landmarks in their own right.
• Seamless airport access: The Red Line connects directly to Dubai International Airport (DXB).
• Gold Class: An upgraded cabin for a more premium commuting experience — a nod to Dubai’s luxury DNA.
• Pro tip: Taking the Metro can save you a lot of time not being stuck in traffic.

Understanding Dubai’s cultural nuances is as simple as a Metro ride: My Gulf Culture & Business Etiquette Playbook covers subtle do’s and don’ts, so you never put a foot wrong.

 

Doha Metro: The World Cup Catalyst

• Launched: 2019
• Lines: Red, Green, and Gold Lines
• Daily Ridership: Surged during FIFA World Cup 2022; steadily growing since
• Doha Metro is the Gulf’s shiny new contender, launched just in time to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup — an event that put Qatar firmly on the global tourism map.
• Cultural nuance: While Qatar is progressive, it remains deeply rooted in its traditions. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and mind the separate carriages.
• Modern design: Sleek, spacious, and themed around Qatari heritage motifs.
• Family carriages: Respecting local customs, with separate cabins for families and women.
• Connectivity: Integrated with Lusail Tram and future expansions, making car-free living more realistic.
• Visitors rave about its cleanliness, punctuality, and comfort — a relief in Doha’s scorching summers.

Want to avoid cultural faux pas while using public transport in Qatar or closing deals at a majlis? My Gulf Culture & Business Etiquette Playbook distils two decades of real-world insights into one practical guide.

 

Riyadh Metro: The Ambitious Newcomer

• Opened Dec 2024: more routes coming
• Lines: Six lines, covering 176 km — the largest metro project in the Middle East
• Goal: To ease congestion in a city historically designed for cars
• Riyadh Metro is arguably the boldest urban transit investment in the Gulf. Long dependent on cars and chauffeurs, the Saudi capital is betting big on public transport to align with its Vision 2030 plan: modernising infrastructure, diversifying the economy, and reducing carbon emissions.
• You can even get special Ubers to take you from your home to a station.
• First Class Cabins as well as family cabins: make sure you respect local culture by dressing appropriately
• Our favourite stations: KAFD designed by Zaha Hadid and Qasr Al Hokm designed by Snohetta that incorporates a garden
• Scale: Once fully operational, it will cover more ground than Dubai and Doha combined.
• Cutting-edge: Driverless trains, energy-efficient systems, and beautifully designed stations.

Master Saudi business culture and local expectations with my Gulf Culture & Business Etiquette Playbook — it is the shortcut every expat and visiting executive needs.

 

Head-to-Head: Quick Comparison (as of June 2025)

Feature	Dubai Metro	Doha Metro	Riyadh Metro
Operational Since	2009	2019	2024
Lines	2 (+ expansions)	3	6
Driverless?	Yes	Yes	Yes
Airport Link?	Yes (DXB)	Yes (Hamad Int’l)	Yes (King Khalid)
Luxury Cabin?	Gold Class available	Goldclub cabin option	First Class available
Cultural Sensitivity	Women/Family cabins	Women/Family cabins	Women/Family cabins
Daily Ridership	755,000 (2024)	600,000 (in 2022)	Designed for maximum 3.6 million passengers
Length	89.6 km	76 km	176 km
Top Speed	90 km/h	100 km/h	90 km/h
Number of Stations	55	37	85

 

Why It Matters: Culture Meets Infrastructure

It is tempting to see these metro systems as mere transport solutions. But in the Gulf, infrastructure is also a cultural statement:

• In Dubai: Embrace the global buzz, try Gold Class, and enjoy the views.
• In Doha: Use it to explore souqs and stadiums, mind the family carriages.
• In Riyadh: Get ready to witness history through the Kingdom’s sweeping transformation — modern yet mindful of heritage.

If you are working with Gulf partners, understanding this context will help you read between the lines in meetings, conversations, and negotiations.

 

The Bigger Picture: What is Next?

Public transport is only one piece of the Gulf’s rapid urban evolution. Smart cities, driverless taxis, hyperloops — the region is investing heavily in futuristic mobility.

However, one thing remains constant: relationships drive business here more than efficiency ever will. You can navigate the most advanced metro perfectly — but if you misread the room during a majlis visit or boardroom pitch, you are back to square one.

Whether you are a resident, visitor, or investor, using these metros is more than convenient — it’s a window into each city’s personality:

Above all, remember: respect for local culture turns a simple ride into a door-opener for deeper connections and opportunities.

 

Ready to Be Culturally Fluent?

If you enjoyed this guide, do not stop here. My Gulf Success Business Etiquette Playbook has helped lots of professionals succeed where others fail — by bridging the gap between modern business and timeless traditions.

👉 Click here to grab your copy now — and ride the Gulf’s growth wave with confidence.

Have questions about doing business in the Gulf? Drop them in the comments below — or connect with me on LinkedIn. Let’s navigate this region together, one insight at a time.