Riyadh Airport Transfer (RUH)

King Khalid International Airport (IATA: RUH) is Saudi Arabia's busiest airport and Riyadh's main international gateway, handling over 30 million passengers annually. The airport has five terminals; Terminal 5 is the main international terminal for most foreign carriers. The airport is 35 kilometres north of central Riyadh along King Fahd Road. Careem and Uber operate from designated pickup zones outside each terminal. Metered taxis depart from official ranks. A LocalsRide driver meets you inside the arrivals hall of your terminal with a name sign.

RUH Transfer Times

King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD): 25 km, 22–38 min. Al Olaya (main hotel district): 33 km, 30–50 min. Kingdom Centre Tower: 33 km, 30–50 min. Al-Diriyah UNESCO site: 40 km, 35–55 min. Riyadh Park and Panorama Mall: 22 km, 20–35 min. Diplomatic Quarter: 35 km, 32–52 min.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which terminal at Riyadh Airport handles international arrivals?

Terminal 5 is the primary international terminal at King Khalid International Airport, handling Saudia, flydubai, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and most international carriers. Terminal 1 handles domestic Saudia routes. Terminals 2, 3, and 4 handle domestic and regional carriers. When booking a LocalsRide private car, specify Terminal 5 for international arrivals — the driver meets you inside the T5 arrivals hall with your name on a sign.

Is there a metro or train from Riyadh Airport to the city?

The Riyadh Metro — one of the world's largest rapid transit systems — does not currently extend to King Khalid International Airport. The closest station is Al-Shuohoud on Line 3 (the Red Line), which is approximately 12 kilometres from the terminal. A taxi or private car is required for the full journey. An airport metro extension has been discussed within Saudi Arabia's giga-project infrastructure programme. As of 2026, car or taxi remains the standard method for airport transfers in Riyadh.