Mecca plans to build a network of four metro lines totalling 114km which will also integrate with new express, local and shuttle bus services at its 62 stations. The project will be completed in three phases and will have an estimated budget of $US 16.5bn. The first phase of the system, a 30km metro line from Um Al-Qura University in Abidiya to Sayeda Aisha Mosque, will be completed in 2017 according to mayor Mr Osama Al-Bar. Construction on the Riyals 25.5bn ($US 6.8bn) project is expected to begin next year.
The projects are being overseen by Mecca Mass Rail Transit Company (MMRTC) and Parsons Brinckerhoff will be responsible for complete programme management services, including general programme management, supervision of consultants and contractors, development of project controls, procurement management, contract administration, management of third parties and technical management.
In addition, the company will conduct quality management, health, safety and environment management, and systems requirements management as well as providing administrative support to MMRTC.
