Launch of the New Phase of the Public Bus Transport Project in Jeddah Governorate

The new phase of the public bus transport project in Jeddah Governorate was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Mr. Saleh bin Ali Al-Turki, Mayor of Jeddah, in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih, Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Acting President of the Transport General Authority; Eng. Yousef bin Nasser Al-Sayegh, CEO of Jeddah Transportation Company; and Eng. Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, Managing Director and CEO of the Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO), along with several board members of Jeddah Transportation Company and a number of senior officials and specialists in the transport and logistics sector.

Jeddah Transportation Company, the executive arm of Jeddah Municipality for public transport projects, announced the launch of this new phase starting from April 1, 2025, in partnership with SAPTCO. The new phase will be operated under a three-year contract, marking a significant advancement in the development of Jeddah’s public transport network.

This phase includes the operation of 91 new buses (model year 2025) manufactured by the Chinese company Yutong. Among these, 88 buses run on clean diesel (EURO-5) and accommodate 41 seated passengers and 50 standing passengers, with features supporting people with disabilities. Additionally, 3 environmentally friendly electric buses will operate with a capacity of 34 seated passengers and 38 standing, also equipped for accessibility needs.

The buses are equipped with advanced technologies, including interior route display screens, a surveillance system with 14 internal and external cameras, GPS tracking connected to an operational control panel to enhance safety and efficiency, and USB ports for charging devices. The number of operational routes has increased to 14, covering wider areas within Jeddah. The number of bus stops has increased to 80, along with 117 air-conditioned stations (46 existing and 71 new stations under development).

Furthermore, the "Jeddah Buses" mobile app has been launched on the App Store and Google Play, offering a comprehensive digital experience that allows users to track buses in real-time, purchase tickets electronically, and benefit from flexible payment options, including Mada cards and onboard payments.

The project aims to serve over 30 million passengers within three years, averaging 9 million annually. It reflects growing confidence in the public transport sector in Jeddah and contributes to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life, reducing reliance on private vehicles, and promoting sustainable transport solutions.