King Fahd Causeway traffic jams before Ramadan: crossing time exceeds 40 minutes
The King Fahd Causeway is experiencing unprecedented traffic congestion in both directions today, Friday. This congestion coincides with the last weekend before the start of Ramadan, prompting a surge in travelers between the two countries and resulting in significantly increased waiting times , necessitating action from the relevant authorities.
Control and monitoring rooms observed a noticeable slowdown in the flow of traffic, as field data indicated that the average time to cross the procedures area towards Saudi Arabia reached 41 minutes, while the time towards Bahrain was recorded at about 35 minutes, which are rates classified as "very high" levels compared to normal days.
The strategic importance of the King Fahd Causeway
This congestion is not a passing event, but rather reflects the strategic importance of the King Fahd Causeway, which was officially opened in 1986. Stretching 25 kilometers, the bridge is one of the most important land crossings in the Middle East, serving as a vital economic and tourism artery between the two sister kingdoms. Official annual statistics indicate that millions of travelers and vehicles cross this crossing, making it a true measure of the strength of social and economic ties among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Drivers of the crowds: Seasonal preparations
Experts and observers attribute this congestion to the phenomenon of "pre-Ramadan shopping," where many Saudi and Bahraini families prefer to spend the last weekend before the holy month shopping and visiting relatives. Markets in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province and Bahrain's markets are popular destinations at this time for purchasing Ramadan supplies, which intensifies the pressure on customs lanes and passport control areas.
Traveler tips and official guidelines
In light of these circumstances, the operating authorities and the bridge management urged travelers to plan their trips in advance and to take advantage of the available technical services:
- Follow official apps to find out the traffic situation in real time before you move.
- Ensure the validity of official documents and vehicle insurance to avoid any further delays in the procedures area.
- Be patient and drive safely within the bridge lanes to ensure everyone's safety and to guarantee the smoothest possible flow of traffic.
The King Fahd Causeway remains a testament to the constant movement between the two peoples, as the holiday seasons and the month of Ramadan become occasions that highlight the depth of social cohesion, despite the temporary logistical challenges that the concerned authorities deal with with high efficiency.
