A new feeder bus system could be introduced to support Bahrain’s upcoming metro project, a top official has revealed.
Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa said the buses would run on short, frequent routes and link residential areas with major metro stations.
He added that the services would be timed to match metro schedules, helping reduce waiting times and making travel smoother for passengers.
The minister outlined these updates while responding in writing to questions from Shura Council financial and economic affairs committee chairman Khalid Al Maskati.
Describing the electric metro network as ‘one of the most important strategic projects under the ministry’s purview’, Dr Shaikh Abdulla said preparations are underway for the first phase route in line with the approved masterplan.
He stressed that this stage requires ‘meticulous planning and integrated procedures’ in co-ordination with all relevant authorities before implementation begins.
A final cost estimate cannot yet be provided due to the incomplete final design and changing market conditions, he explained, adding that the budget would be determined once detailed studies are approved.
“To ensure the metro delivers maximum benefit, the ministry is planning a feeder bus system using small and medium-sized buses operating on short, regular routes linking residential areas and transport hubs to metro stations,” Dr Shaikh Abdulla said.
“These feeder services will be synchronised with train arrival and departure times to reduce waiting periods and ensure smooth integration between different modes of transport,” he added.
The system will be supported by Park and Ride facilities and potentially dedicated bus lanes to ease traffic around stations, particularly in densely populated and commercially active areas.
“This integrated approach will expand the metro’s reach, increase user numbers and reduce reliance on private vehicles, thereby alleviating congestion around key locations,” he added.
Bahrain first announced plans in 2018 to develop a 109km fully-automated, driverless metro system in four phases, estimated at the time, to cost around $2 billion.
The GDN earlier reported that the project had already cost the government BD7.5 million up until 2022.
A further BD11.7m was allocated last year, and a further BD91.3m until completion in 2029.
The ministry has qualified seven consortiums for the execution of Phase 1, according to project details on its website.
Additionally, Phase 1 of the metro network will be connected to King Hamad International Railway Station through Phase 1A, which will span 8km and include four stops.
Dr Shaikh Abdulla further outlined the ministry’s plans for regulating public transport and easing traffic pressure.
He stressed that Bahrain’s wider transport strategy focuses on moving people ‘smarter, not just faster’.
Among the regulatory solutions under study is the introduction of dedicated lanes for high-occupancy vehicles (HOVs) on vital roads during peak hours.
Bahrain aims to encourage shared transport, reduce the number of individual vehicles on the road, lower carbon emissions and maximise the use of existing infrastructure without the need for major construction works, Dr Shaikh Abdulla noted.
He pointed out that the ministry’s role centres on providing an integrated and accessible public transport network that meets the daily mobility needs of citizens and residents smoothly and safely.
He also clarified that organising transport arrangements for workers who do not own private vehicles does not fall within the ministry’s operational responsibilities.
Instead, the ministry focuses on building the public transport network and setting the technical licensing framework for vehicles operating within it.
“Our responsibility is to ensure the availability of a comprehensive public transport system for all users, rather than regulating transport for specific professional categories,” he explained.
The minister said the ministry regularly reviews and updates bus routes based on actual demand, passenger density and urban expansion, ensuring that coverage evolves alongside population growth.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to continued co-operation with the legislative authority in developing practical, sustainable transport solutions for the kingdom.
“Our focus is on smart solutions that move people efficiently, support environmental objectives and keep pace with Bahrain’s urban and economic growth,” he said.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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