27.8 million passengers used public transport buses in Saudi Arabia in the fourth quarter of 2025
The Public Transport Authority announced new record figures reflecting the rapid growth in the logistics and transport sector, as the statistical bulletin issued by it today revealed that the total number of passengers who used public transport by buses within Saudi cities and governorates exceeded 27.8 million passengers, during the fourth quarter of 2025 only.
Riyadh leads the way with millions of views
According to the statistics, Riyadh the list of cities with the highest public transport usage, recording a staggering 21.15 million passengers. This figure reflects the success of major transportation projects in the capital, most notably the "Riyadh Buses" project, part of the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project, which has significantly transformed the city's transportation culture and alleviated traffic congestion.
Mecca came in second place with 3.42 million passengers, which is in line with the high density of visitors, pilgrims and residents of the central area, followed by Jeddah in third place with 1.19 million passengers.
Passengers were distributed across the remaining areas
Growth wasn't limited to major cities; it extended to other regions as well. The Dammam metropolitan area and Qatif governorate in the Eastern Province recorded 836,000 passengers, while Medina saw 481,000. The remaining figures were distributed in varying proportions across other cities and governorates undergoing continuous development of their transportation networks, including Qassim, Taif, Jazan, Al-Ahsa, and Tabuk.
Public transport and the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This significant increase in passenger numbers is a direct reflection of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 , specifically the National Transport and Logistics Strategy launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This strategy aims to improve the quality of life in Saudi cities by providing safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation options, thereby reducing overall reliance on private cars and limiting carbon emissions.
The Public Transport Authority is working diligently to develop the legislative and regulatory framework of the sector, to ensure operational efficiency and expand the scope of services to include new residential neighborhoods and vital facilities, thereby enhancing accessibility, connecting the outskirts of cities with their commercial and service centers, and supporting economic and tourism activity in the Kingdom.
