Shuttle transport statistics in Medina during Ramadan
service in Madinah achieved shuttle bus remarkable success during the current Ramadan season, with official statistics revealing 13,300 shuttle trips operating between various locations, including the Prophet's Mosque and Quba Mosque, during the first ten days of the holy month. More than 500,000 passengers, including residents, visitors, and pilgrims, benefited from this vital service, reflecting the efficiency of the operational plan implemented for this season.
Shuttle transport strategy and infrastructure development
These record numbers are a direct result of the efforts undertaken by the Madinah Development Authority within the “Madinah Buses” project. This project is part of a broader initiative aimed at developing the Kingdom’s public transportation infrastructure, in line with the steady increase in the number of Umrah pilgrims and visitors annually. Historically, the central area around the Prophet’s Mosque experienced extremely high traffic density during prayer times in Ramadan, necessitating a shift towards sustainable and smart mass transit solutions to ensure smooth traffic flow and provide comfort for pilgrims.
Service routes and multiple departure stations
To ensure comprehensive geographical coverage, the shuttle are strategically located throughout Medina. The network includes key stations, most notably the Haramain High-Speed Railway station, which directly connects those arriving from Mecca and Jeddah to the city center. Additional stations are located in the Al-Khalidiyah, King Fahd, Shatha, Sayyid Al-Shuhada, and Al-Hadiqah neighborhoods, as well as the Peace College station and the sports stadium. The Al-Aliyah station has also been designated to provide direct access to the Quba Mosque, making it easier for visitors to perform the Sunnah of praying there.
Regulatory impact and the objectives of Vision 2030
The project's importance extends beyond simply transporting passengers; it encompasses significant organizational and environmental dimensions. It directly contributes to reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions from private vehicles in the central area. This aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the Guests of God Service Program, which aims to enrich the religious and cultural experience of visitors by providing advanced logistical services. The service also relies on modern technology, including electronic ticketing and payment, which expedites crowd management, reduces waiting times, and ensures a smooth and safe transportation experience for worshippers.
