Manama, Bahrain | April 17, 2026
In remarks marking World Public Transport Day, His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain continues to advance and enhance the sustainability of its public transport system in line with international best practices.
His Excellency highlighted that these efforts support Bahrain’s ambition to build more connected, efficient, and high-quality cities, while contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Across the city, this is reflected in practical ways. Buses arrive on time. Routes are clearly structured. People can plan their day with greater certainty.
Marking the occasion, His Excellency noted the importance of mass transit systems in supporting sustainable urban mobility, improving traffic flow, and strengthening community connectivity. He emphasized Bahrain’s commitment to participating in international efforts that promote sustainable transport solutions and advance their objectives.
His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa stated that the Ministry’s strategic priorities focus on developing land transport infrastructure, expanding public transport options, improving operational efficiency, and encouraging greater use of public transport. These priorities align with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and national plans aimed at building an integrated transport network that enhances mobility and supports carbon neutrality targets by 2060.
For residents, this translates into shorter waiting times, clearer routes, and more efficient travel across the city.
The public transport network continues to show measurable progress. More than 600 bus stops now serve over 39,500 kilometres daily across 26 routes. Since the network’s redevelopment in 2015 through March 2026, more than 116 million passengers have used the system, reflecting increasing public reliance and confidence.
High ridership builds over time as people choose services they know they can count on.
His Excellency also noted that the transport system has demonstrated resilience and operational continuity. Bus services continued to run efficiently under all circumstances, maintaining service delivery and supporting daily mobility needs. In March 2026, the system recorded an operating rate of 80 percent, with a total of 782,931 journeys and a daily average of 25,256 journeys.
Service continuity allowed people to carry on with their day, from commuting to work to getting back home without disruption.
Ongoing development initiatives, implemented in cooperation with the Bahrain Public Transport Company, continue to focus on improving network efficiency, enhancing service quality, and increasing reliability and ease of use. These efforts strengthen public transport as a sustainable option that supports everyday life and community stability.
Over time, these improvements shape how the city operates, making movement across different areas more seamless and predictable.
His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa also commended the efforts of national personnel and employees in the land transport sector, recognizing their role in delivering essential services and ensuring the smooth movement of people across the Kingdom.
