Bahrain is considering extending its sea taxi service to the Budaiya coastline, officials have said.
Environmental and tourism authorities have confirmed that the proposal will be reviewed as part of future expansion plans, pending completion of technical studies.
The idea was submitted by the Northern Municipal Council as part of efforts to improve marine transport, boost coastal tourism and provide alternative commuting options along the Northern Governorate’s shoreline.
In a written response to the council, the Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) confirmed that Budaiya’s coast could be included in the sea taxi expansion programme, subject to environmental assessments and national priorities.
The reply was issued by SCE chief executive officer Amna Al Romaihi.
The SCE stated that it would “explore the possibility of expanding the project to include the Budaiya coast within the Northern Governorate as part of the proposed expansion sites, following the completion of the necessary studies and in line with approved priorities.”
Meanwhile, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) said the sea taxi project had already entered its first operational phase earlier this year.
In a response attributed to BTEA chief executive officer Sara Buhiji, the authority said the initial phase was launched in May, starting from Marina Wharf, connecting it with several key tourist destinations in the Capital Governorate.
These include The Avenues, Four Seasons Hotel, Bahrain Bay and Water Garden City, marking what BTEA described as an important step towards enhancing Bahrain’s marine tourism offering.
The authority added that the current phase is now being evaluated to assess performance and demand. Studies are underway into the strategic and economic feasibility of expanding the service to other governorates to ensure long-term sustainability.
“As part of this evaluation, the possibility of extending the sea taxi service to the Budaiya coastline in the Northern Governorate will be examined, once all required studies are completed and based on approved priorities,” the BTEA said.
Area councillor Mohammed Al Dossary welcomed the responses, describing them as a positive signal for northern coastal communities.
“Budaiya has a long coastline and strong potential for marine transport and tourism,” he said. “A sea taxi service would not only support tourism activity, but also provide residents with a new, environmentally friendly transport option.”
Mr Al Dossary said the proposal aligns with the character of Budaiya as a historic coastal area and could help ease road congestion while opening new opportunities for small businesses and waterfront activities.
“We are not asking for immediate implementation, but for proper planning and inclusion within national expansion strategies,” he added.
“The confirmation from both the environment and tourism authorities that Budaiya is being considered is an encouraging step.”
Mr Al Dossary stressed that the Northern Municipal Council would continue to follow up on the proposal and support co-ordination between government bodies to ensure environmental protection, economic viability and community benefit.
He said if approved in future phases, the Budaiya route would mark the first sea taxi connection serving the Northern Governorate’s coastline, potentially linking it with the capital’s main tourist hubs and reinforcing Bahrain’s push towards diversified transport and sustainable tourism solutions.
“For now, the focus remains on evaluating the initial phase of the project, with expansion decisions to be guided by technical studies, demand levels and long-term feasibility,” he added.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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