Launching tourist guides on Madinah buses to enrich the visitor experience
In a significant step aimed at enriching the experience of pilgrims and visitors, the Madinah Region Development Authority the launch of tourist guide within the city's bus . This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to transform public transportation from a mere means of transport into an integrated cultural and historical journey, connecting visitors to the essence and sanctity of the place from the moment they arrive.
Service details and included routes
The authority explained that the new service has been initially activated on two vital routes that serve as the first gateway for those arriving in Madinah: the airport bus route (Route 400) and the Haramain High-Speed Railway station route. This service is provided by a select group of qualified and certified tour guides from the Madinah Ambassadors Association , who possess extensive knowledge of the city's history and landmarks, ensuring the delivery of enriching, reliable, and engaging content.
Enhancing the cultural and historical dimension
The importance of this initiative extends beyond mere logistics; it also reflects the historical depth of Medina. Throughout the journey, guides provide comprehensive explanations of the historical and archaeological sites the buses pass, connecting them to events from the Prophet's life. This interactive approach offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Islamic history firsthand and witness its living testaments, deepening their emotional connection to this blessed city.
Alignment with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This step aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , specifically the Guests of God Service Program, which aims to facilitate the hosting of more pilgrims and visitors while providing high-quality services. Integrating tourism education with public transportation services is a model to be emulated in developing tourism infrastructure, as it contributes to utilizing travel time to provide visitors with valuable information, thus increasing overall satisfaction with the services offered in the Kingdom.
The importance of public transport in the tourism system
It is worth noting that the Madinah City Bus Project is a cornerstone of the transportation system in the Madinah region, connecting the Prophet's Mosque with several vital and tourist sites such as Quba Mosque and Mount Uhud. With the addition of tourist guide services, these buses transform into mobile information platforms, guiding visitors and informing them about destinations they can visit. This stimulates tourism and the local economy, enhancing Madinah's standing as a global tourist and cultural destination.
