How to get from Riyadh Airport to City Centre

Kathryn Shaw

November 1, 2023

Riyadh is Saudi Arabia’s capital and the largest city in the country. Home to the UNESCO Heritage site of Diriyah, vibrant souks, ancient buildings, and spectacular fine-dining restaurants make Riyadh a must-visit travel destination.

So when travelling from Riyadh airport to the city, taxis and private transfers are the only way to get from the airport to the city centre. Taxis are a great way to travel as they are direct, safe, and convenient, taking only 30 minutes to reach Downtown Riyadh.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Riyadh at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Welcome Pickups	€47	30min	24/7
Taxi	€18.70	30min	24/7

How to get from Riyadh Airport to City Centre by taxi

Although the only travel option from King Khalid Riyadh airport to the city centre, taxis and private transfers are a great way to get around. They are available 24/7 and provide safe, reliable and comfortable door-to-door services, taking just 30 minutes to reach your downtown accommodation, and at a reasonable cost.

Cost of a taxi from Riyadh Airport to the city centre

Taxis from Riyadh airport to the city centre offer set rate fares for the price of €18.70 (SR 70). Just ensure you enter an official, licensed taxi to avoid surprises!

Cost

€18.70 (SR 70)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*Rates do not vary depending on the time of day.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at King Khalid International Airport.

Where do I get a taxi from?

You can find Riyadh Airport’s taxi ranks in front of the terminal’s exit doors. Just walk to the front of the line and speak to the driver.

Convenience

Taxis and private transfers are your only option when travelling to Riyadh’s city centre. Taxis are inexpensive, especially compared to some major Saudi Arabian cities, and provide safe door-to-door transportation.

Editor’s Note

Your Riyadh taxi should accept card payments; however, it is recommended to ask your driver beforehand.

Useful Tips

It is important to know that only SAFWA Taxis are authorised to operate at Riyadh Airport.

It is expected to leave your Riyadh taxi driver a 10% tip.

Please note that a metro line connecting Riyadh airport and the city centre is under construction, and will provide an extra travel alternative to Downtown.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Riyadh. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€45.0

NIGHTTIME

€54.0

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Riyadh airport to the city centre?

Taxis and private transfers are the only available transportation option from Riyadh airport to the city centre. However, a metro line is currently under construction and will link Riyadh Airport Terminal 5 to the new King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).

What’s the average Riyadh airport-to-city taxi fare?

The taxis from Riyadh airport to the city offer fixed fares. Your 30-minute Riyadh airport to city drive will cost €18.70 (SR 70).

Is there a direct bus from Riyadh airport to the city?

Unfortunately, there is no direct public bus from Riyadh airport to the city centre. You can use the Careem BUS application, similar to a private transfer, or ask your hotel if they provide hotel shuttles to and from the airport.

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How to get from Riyadh Airport to City Centre

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

How to get from Riyadh Airport to City Centre by taxi