Ramadan 2025: Medina Launches Shuttle Bus Service To Ease Worshipers' Travel
Authorities in Medina, home to Islam's second holiest mosque, have announced the launch of a shuttle bus service at the start of Ramadan, expected to begin on March 1.
The initiative aims to facilitate the movement of residents and visitors in the city during the fasting month.
The Medina Bus Project will operate routes to the Prophet's Mosque for 18 hours a day, except for Al Salam and Sayyid Al Shuhada stations, which will run 24/7. The service is designed to ease traffic congestion, enhance mobility around the mosque, and promote a cleaner environment by reducing vehicle emissions and expanding pedestrian-friendly areas.
More than 2 million people used the Medina bus service last year, according to official data.
With an anticipated surge in worshippers during Ramadan, the shuttle service will increase its bus fleet, operating hours, and stop points to accommodate demand.
The buses, powered by solar energy, are part of the Medina Development Authority's projects. They cover 106 stops, each equipped with display screens, route maps, and service schedules. The routes serve key locations, including mosques, historical and archaeological sites, educational institutions, shopping malls, and healthcare facilities.
Medina saw 18 million visitors last year, with the average stay increasing from two days in 2019 to over 10 days today, according to Fahd Al Balehshi, Secretary of the Medina Region Development Authority.
In 2023, visitor numbers reached 14.1 million, marking a 6 million increase from the previous year, with spending exceeding SR49.7 billion. Officials attribute this growth to enhanced city infrastructure, improved services, and expanding hospitality, accommodation, and transportation facilities.
With these developments, the Medina Bus Project is set to provide seamless and sustainable transportation for worshippers and residents during Ramadan and beyond.
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