King Fahd Causeway traffic today: Crossing time to Saudi Arabia jumps to 40 minutes
The King Fahd Causeway, the vital artery and only land link between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Bahrain, is witnessing exceptional traffic congestion today, Friday, as field observations have noted significant congestion on the lanes, especially those heading towards Saudi territory, coinciding with the usual peak of weekend traffic, which sees heavy movement of travelers between the two brotherly countries.
Real-time field monitoring data showed a significant increase in the average time to cross the procedures area, with travelers heading to Saudi Arabia taking approximately 40 minutes to complete their official procedures, reflecting the "high traffic" in this direction, which calls for travelers to plan their trips well.
Transit status and smart technologies
In contrast, the lanes departing towards the Kingdom of Bahrain are experiencing moderate traffic, with an average crossing time of approximately 32 minutes, according to real-time traffic data. Thermal cameras and surveillance systems deployed along the causeway have recorded slow-moving vehicles during peak hours, with queues forming at the entry gates.
The King Fahd Causeway Authority continuously strives to facilitate crossing by providing an advanced technological service through the “Jisr” application, which enables travelers to know the expected crossing time before setting off, in addition to watching the live broadcast of the field situation, which helps in making the right decision and avoiding peak hours.
The strategic and historical importance of the bridge
The King Fahd Causeway, officially opened in November 1986, is one of the most important development projects in the region. Stretching 25 kilometers, it connects the Saudi city of Al-Khobar with the Bahraini city of Manama. The bridge is more than just a crossing point; it embodies the deep fraternal and historical ties between the two countries' leaderships and peoples, contributing to the strengthening of social bonds between extended families in both nations.
Economic and tourism impact
Economically, the bridge plays a pivotal role in stimulating trade and tourism, as it is one of the busiest land crossings in the Middle East. Its importance is amplified during official holidays and weekends, as Saudi tourists flock to Bahrain for leisure and shopping, while Bahraini citizens and residents travel to Saudi Arabia for religious, tourist, and business purposes, thus boosting the economies of both countries.
The relevant authorities are working diligently to develop the bridge’s digital infrastructure by deploying smart cameras and activating electronic gates, with the aim of reducing waiting times and increasing operational efficiency to ensure a smoother and faster travel experience for millions of commuters annually, in light of expectations that the number of travelers will continue to grow in the coming years.
