More than 45.7m bus trips have been recorded over four years, as Bahrain eyes a public transport metro boost, revealed Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa.
He said the use of buses in Bahrain had climbed steadily since 2022, with 45,767,186 trips recorded between 2022 and 2025, according to fresh figures presented in a written reply to a question by MP Dr Muneer Suroor.
Annual rides on the red modern buses rose from 9,989,516 trips in 2022 to 11,728,080 in 2023, marking a 17 per cent increase from previous figures.
Growth continued in 2024 with 11,859,699 trips (1pc rise), and reached 12,189,891 in 2025 (3pc increase).
Dr Shaikh Abdulla said the trend reflected the impact of awareness campaigns and gradual improvements to services.
“Public transport usage has shown a consistent upward trajectory since 2022, and we expect this growth to continue as we expand and modernise the network to better serve citizens, residents and visitors,” he said.
He stressed that enhancing public transport is central to easing congestion on the roads during peak hours and holidays.
“Our strategy focuses on offering efficient alternatives to private vehicles, which directly contributes to reducing traffic pressure on key roads across the kingdom.”
A key pillar of this strategy is the planned Bahrain Metro project. The first phase route is currently being prepared through detailed studies and co-ordination with relevant authorities.
“The electric metro will be a transformative addition to Bahrain’s transport system,” the minister added.
“It will connect Bahrain International Airport with commercial, residential and educational hubs through an integrated network linked to buses and cycle paths.”
The project will be delivered in partnership with the private sector. Final costs and timelines will be confirmed once detailed designs are completed, land acquisition is finalised and utilities along the route are relocated.
“We are taking meticulous steps to ensure optimal route preparation before construction begins. The metro will significantly enhance mobility and support Bahrain’s move towards a more sustainable and efficient transport model,” he added.
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