https://arab.news/cqk27
- Initiative includes 91 new buses, expanded bus stops and routes, and exclusive taxi franchise
JEDDAH: Jeddah is set to undergo a major public transportation expansion with new routes and increased services.
Jeddah Transport Co. CEO Yousef Al-Sayegh has announced the launch of 91 new buses, including three electric vehicles, and an increase in bus routes from six to 14 starting April 1.
This expansion will significantly enhance mobility across the city, with the number of bus stops increasing from 46 to 383, and a goal of serving 9 million riders annually.
The announcement was made during a recent event hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce Saudi Arabia Jeddah Chapter, which focused on transportation initiatives and business collaboration opportunities.
During his presentation, Al-Sayegh outlined the company’s history and operations, focusing on public transportation, transit-oriented development, and sustainable urban mobility.
He highlighted key initiatives, including bus and taxi services, infrastructure development, and investments to enhance Jeddah’s public transport network.
Al-Sayegh discussed the company’s partnership with SAPTCO, the local bus service provider, which began in 2018.
“We started with six bus routes, and Jeddah remains the only city in Saudi Arabia with air-conditioned bus stations. Today, 76 buses serve the city, carrying 26 million passengers over the past five years,” he said.
Al-Sayegh also outlined plans for an exclusive public taxi franchise to improve service quality and efficiency.
A consultancy contract has been secured to assist with the tendering process, financial modeling, and operational requirements.
The initiative includes a distinct visual identity for Jeddah’s taxis, featuring a standardized brand, logo, official uniforms, and designated taxi parking signage.
Each taxi will have informative interior stickers and digital passenger screens.
“Taxis and drivers will maintain a standard appearance, with dashboards displaying the driver’s name and company details. Four different color-coded taxis will distinguish services provided by four companies,” he added.
Speaking to Arab News, Al-Sayegh emphasized the importance of expanding Jeddah’s bus network and increasing the number of stations to boost ridership.
“The more stations we have, the more people can access public transport. We have increased bus routes to 14, and if demand rises, we are prepared to expand further. Our goal is to make Jeddah’s public transport system comfortable, reliable, and punctual.
“Our buses are kept clean and are driven by qualified professionals who prioritize safety. Women can confidently use public transport as all buses are equipped with surveillance cameras linked to a control room with facial-recognition technology.”
Nausherwan Hafeez, president of the Jeddah chapter, said: “This conversation showcased Jeddah Transport Co.’s efforts to enhance mobility across the city and address a key challenge in our community.
“We look forward to organizing more events that bring business leaders together to exchange insights, foster connections, and collaborate across industries to find solutions to common challenges.”
Zeina Alnouri, head of events and programs for the Jeddah chapter, said: “These are exciting times for Saudi Arabia, and we are proud to serve as a platform for companies like Jeddah Transport Co., to share their vision and foster collaboration.
“We look forward to continuously hosting this new event series, featuring exclusive announcements that provide our attendees with valuable insights into the Kingdom’s future.”