Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics and Chairman of the Transport General Authority (TGA), unveiled a groundbreaking moment as he inaugurated the Intercity Bus Service connecting 200 cities and governorates across Saudi Arabia.

The grand ceremony, held in Riyadh, witnessed the presence of several ministers, ambassadors, and officials from both government agencies and private companies. This remarkable endeavor, a collaborative effort between Saudi Arabia and foreign partners, introduces integrated passenger bus services that span the nation.

Three global alliances have been formed to operate services in their respective concession areas, establishing connections between 200 cities and governorates through 76 routes. This Intercity Bus Service is set to serve over six million passengers annually, offering state-of-the-art buses equipped with eco-friendly technology. The service aims to provide commuters with a wide range of transportation options, enhance intercity movement, reduce carbon emissions, promote safety, and alleviate traffic congestion.

Minister Al-Jasser revealed the significant impact of this project, which is expected to create over 35,000 direct and indirect jobs while contributing SR3.2 billion to the country's GDP. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's continuous development and reform efforts, specifically within the transportation and logistics sector, following the launch of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services under the guidance of the Crown Prince. Al-Jasser emphasized the substantial growth in the land transportation sector and the positive impact on various services and the economy.

Furthermore, Al-Jasser stated that this project represents the first foreign investment in Saudi bus transportation services, symbolizing the commitment to improving service quality and strengthening collaboration with the private sector. He emphasized the ongoing commitment to enhancing service quality, promoting competitiveness, supporting transportation integration, and introducing modern and eco-friendly transportation options in alignment with the comprehensive progress happening in the nation.

The ceremony also featured a comprehensive overview of the alliances and concession areas, aligned with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. The goal of this strategy is to increase the share of public transport services in the Kingdom from the current one percent to 15 percent by 2030. Additionally, the project aims to reduce carbon emissions from transportation by 25 percent in 2030, enhancing the quality of life in Saudi cities.

Three global alliances will operate the bus services in their respective concession areas:

1. Darb AlWatan Company - Northern concession
2. Northwest Bus Company - Northwest concession
3. SAT (SAPTCO Alsa for Transportation) - Southern concession

For ticket booking details and more information, visit the TGA website.