Manama is set to take a major step towards modern, eco-friendly mobility after the Capital Trustees Board unanimously approved a proposal yesterday to introduce a smart, sustainable ride-sharing system across the capital.
The proposal – submitted by board member Dr Bashar Ahmedi – aims to help tackle chronic congestion, reduce emissions, cut transportation costs and support Bahrain’s broader sustainability goals.
The services and public utilities committee had earlier endorsed the initiative before forwarding it to the full board, which voted in complete agreement. Committee chairman Mohammed Tawfeeq Al Abbas hailed the move as a milestone for the capital.
“This unanimous approval reflects a shared understanding that Manama must embrace intelligent mobility solutions,” he said. “The smart ride-sharing system will ease traffic in key districts like Seef and the Diplomatic Area, support environmental goals and offer people a more efficient and affordable way to commute.”
- The committee’s report highlights four key objectives behind the initiative:
- Reducing traffic congestion in the capital’s most crowded zones
- Lowering carbon emissions and improving air quality
- Helping residents save on transportation costs
- Strengthening community responsibility in shifting towards sustainable transport
Mr Al Abbas said these goals align with Bahrain’s Vision for Sustainable Development. “If we want a cleaner and more liveable capital, we must transition from traditional traffic patterns to smarter systems that benefit the entire community,” he added. “This proposal does not just reduce traffic; it reshapes how the city moves.
“We are one step closer to a cleaner, more efficient and more sustainable Manama.”
The proposal identifies a wide target audience, including employees of major commercial districts, government staff, bank workers and university students from Bahrain University and private academic institutions.
Dr Ahmedi said it was designed to serve the real, daily needs of commuters. “Every day, thousands of people waste time stuck in traffic,” he said. “This system connects people travelling the same direction at the same time and offers a practical, efficient and community-driven solution.”
Central to the project is a locally-developed mobile application that matches riders and drivers using smart route-matching technology.
Key features include:
- Identity verification via CPR or student ID
- Smart algorithms to match routes by location and timing
- Arabic and English support
- A system to split ride costs
- Free parking permits in Manama for active participants
- Workplace-based incentives
- Potential startup support from Tamkeen or the Transportation and Telecommunications Ministry
- Fuel vouchers for frequent drivers
Dr Ahmedi said the incentive structure would be an essential element. “People are more willing to use shared mobility when there are real, tangible benefits,” he believes. “Parking privileges, fuel support and employer-backed rewards would help drive adoption across the capital.”
Following detailed discussions, the Capital Trustees Board approved the proposal unanimously, signalling strong institutional support for transforming urban mobility in Manama.
It has been referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak to forward to Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Shaikh Dr Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa for review.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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