Manama : Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is continuing to advance and enhance the sustainability of its public transport system in line with international best practices and in support of its aspirations for more connected, efficient and higher-quality cities, in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The Minister said that World Public Transport Day, launched by the International Association of Public Transport, represents an important occasion to reaffirm the vital role played by mass transit systems in supporting sustainable urban mobility, improving traffic flow and strengthening community connectivity. He underscored Bahrain’s commitment to participating in international efforts that promote sustainable urban mobility and the adoption of its objectives.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed said that the strategic goals of the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications focus on the continued development of land transport infrastructure, diversification of public transport options, enhancement of operational efficiency, and support for policies that encourage greater use of public transport. These efforts are aligned with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and national plans aimed at developing an integrated transport network that improves traffic flow, increases mobility efficiency and contributes to achieving carbon neutrality targets by 2060.
The Minister noted that the public transport network has seen significant progress, with more than 600 bus stops covering over 39,500 kilometres daily across 26 routes. More than 116 million passengers have used the network since its redevelopment in 2015 up to March 2026, reflecting growing reliance on public transport and public confidence in its efficiency.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed added that the public transport system has demonstrated its ability to operate under all circumstances, with buses continuing to provide services efficiently despite the Iranian attacks, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to serving the community. During March 2026, the system recorded an operating rate of 80%, with a total of 782,931 journeys and a daily average of 25,256 journeys, helping to ensure uninterrupted mobility and meet people’s daily needs.
The Minister also highlighted the continued implementation of development initiatives in cooperation with Bahrain Public Transport Company, including measures to improve network efficiency, enhance service quality, and raise levels of reliability and ease of use, further strengthening public transport as an effective and sustainable option that supports social stability.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed praised the dedicated efforts of national personnel and all employees in the land transport sector, commending their pivotal role in delivering essential services that directly affect people’s lives and facilitate their daily movement.
