Electric Bus Rapid Transit Service Launches in Makkah

An electric bus rapid transit service has begun operating in Makkah, described as one of the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. Developed and operated by Electromin in partnership with Umm Al-Qura for Development and Construction, the network is expected to serve more than 125 million passengers over the next 15 years while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 31,500 tonnes compared with traditional vehicles.

Electromin, a Petromin subsidiary specialising in energy and mobility solutions, said the service forms part of the Masar Destination mixed-use development in Makkah. The vehicles operate in dedicated bus lanes, connecting key hubs within Masar. The network includes two main bus stations and 11 stops along the route, and is designed to be accessible to all users. It is designed to serve more than 5 million visitors and pilgrims annually.

Operators said the service is intended as a foundation for Makkah’s future transportation system through integration with the broader Masar project, which includes pedestrian walkways, more than 5,000 parking spaces, metro services and other urban infrastructure. The company added that the bus rapid transit system is engineered for higher capacity and reliability than conventional bus services.