[GUIDE] What You Need to Know about Public Transportation in Saudi Arabia

As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been among the top destinations for work among expats for quite some time now, going to this country for whatever purpose you may have should not be a very difficult thing to do, especially since the country has invested in its basic services including public transportation, which aims to give the citizens as well as expats an easier time to adjust to life in the country.

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And just like most modern nations, KSA has invested in infrastructure, in the same way that the government has accommodated more businesses to be established in the country, and with all these advancements — the other sectors of society must also keep in step with the progress.

Getting Around the KSA via Public Transportation

It’s just great to note that the country has a well-developed transportation network, which makes it easy for everyone to travel from one place to another. It’s also quite impressive to note that KSA has invested much of its riches on public infrastructures such as roads and bridges. This only makes travelling within the country an experience worth having.

And while eligible people can take private vehicles to get around the city, those who opt to take public transport are provided with safe, comfortable, and affordable travel options:

• By Air

Arriving in the Kingdom’s capital, Riyadh, you would find the King Khalid International Airport. However, if we are talking about the busiest airport in Saudi Arabia, then it would have to be the King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah. This airport is connected to most major international airlines as well as to other airports within the country and the region. Furthermore, the airport in the capital also accommodates domestic flights provided by the country’s flag carrier, Saudia Airlines.

• Buses

You would find that the majority of buses plying the city are under the operation of the Saudi Arabian Public Transport Company (SAPTCO). The company offers transport services within Dammam, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and Riyadh.

The standard bus fare per passenger is SAR 2. You can simply place your fare inside the fare box as you board the bus, or purchase tickets beforehand at the bus station or any transport ticket outlets.

Of note, SAPTCO also provides inter-city transport services, which connect major cities and available international routes, as well. On the other hand, you will also find other independent bus operators servicing other areas and destinations within the country.

• Trains

At present, a metro rail transport service is still under construction. SAPTCO is working with RATP Dev, a leading international metro rail and public transport service provider. The partnership aims to establish metro and heavy rail networks all over the country.

• Taxis

And if you’re really in a big hurry, you can always hail a taxi anywhere to get you practically around the city. Most of the taxis in the Kingdom are white in colour and are metered with a base fare starting at SAR 5.

As the government is still working on a couple of major transportation projects as of the moment, it’s safe to say that as for the public transportation in the Kingdom: the best is yet come. Meanwhile, be sure to check out your other travel options for a more convenient and efficient experience (and stay) while in the country.