Transforming Jeddah’s Transport: Electric Buses, Sea Taxis, and Vision 2030

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, big things are happening—and nowhere is that more evident than in Jeddah. As part of the country’s Vision 2030 strategy, this vibrant coastal city is undergoing a remarkable transformation in how people move around. In a recent episode of the Mobility Redefined podcast, Dr Kaan Yidizgoz welcomed Hammam Saab, Vice President for Technical Affairs at Jeddah Transport Company, for an open and energising conversation about how the city is redesigning its transport systems for a smarter, cleaner, and more inclusive future.

Whether you’re a transport enthusiast, a frequent traveller, or simply curious about how cities are adapting to global change, the episode offers a glimpse into how Jeddah is stepping confidently into the future.

Why Jeddah? Why Now?

Jeddah isn’t just any city. It’s the second-largest in the Kingdom and plays a vital role as the main entry point for millions of pilgrims heading to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. With one of the region’s busiest airports and seaports, it’s also a commercial powerhouse. As Hammam puts it, “Jeddah is unique. Jeddah is fun. It has a soul.” That energy is now being channelled into building a transport system that reflects the city’s spirit while meeting the ambitious national goals of Vision 2030.

Buses, Reimagined

Public transport in Jeddah is no longer limited to the modest six-line bus network that launched in 2018. As Hammam shared, that early effort served as a valuable learning experience. Fast forward to today, and the city now boasts 14 bus lines, a bigger and more advanced fleet, and environmentally friendly Euro V vehicles—including several electric buses. These new buses come equipped with modern tech and user-friendly applications, making them accessible and appealing to a growing number of residents.

The city is also investing in air-conditioned bus stations and expects to keep expanding its services year on year.

Sea Taxis and New Ways to Explore

With the Red Sea on its doorstep, it only makes sense for Jeddah to make the most of it. Enter: the sea taxi. This innovative new mode of transport offers both practical connections and scenic experiences. As Hammam explains, visitors often now combine their religious or business trips with a leisurely sea tour—making transport part of the city’s broader tourism offering.

Plans are in motion to expand the sea taxi network to surrounding suburbs and to introduce advanced technologies, including electric sea taxis.

A Better Taxi Experience

Hammam also spoke about transforming Jeddah’s traditional taxi system. At present, most taxis are individually owned and operated, making service quality and consistency hard to manage. The goal is to shift towards a franchise model with just a handful of companies operating the service. These companies would use modern vehicles, app-based booking, and designated pick-up zones—especially at busy sites like shopping malls and transport hubs. Expect to see this transformation take shape as early as next year.

Seamless Journeys, Every Day

Jeddah Transport Company isn’t stopping at buses and taxis. The long-term vision includes a fully integrated app that lets users plan and pay for their entire journey—whether that involves a bus, a sea taxi, a first- or last-mile van, or all three. Hammam emphasised the importance of offering comfort and simplicity in a climate that can be extremely hot and humid. A seamless travel experience is not just a convenience—it’s essential.

High-Speed Links and Event Readiness

The city is already connected to Saudi Arabia’s high-speed rail network, linking it to Mecca and Medinah. Local buses connect seamlessly with rail stations at the airport and in Sulaymaniyah, ensuring smooth transfers for residents and pilgrims alike.

Looking ahead, Jeddah is preparing to welcome the world. As one of the host cities for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the city is planning a robust network that will serve four stadiums and major fan zones, hotels, and other event spaces. This forward-thinking approach is also being fine-tuned to meet the massive annual demands of Haj season.

From Experiment to Reality: Going Electric

One of the highlights from the conversation was Hammam’s story of how a simple interaction on LinkedIn sparked a partnership that led to Jeddah’s first electric bus trial. Working with Chinese manufacturer Yutong, the city conducted a year-long real-world test. Despite concerns about battery life and air conditioning in Jeddah’s harsh climate, the trial proved a success.

Today, electric buses are now part of the city’s regular fleet, and the trial has inspired similar efforts in cities like Tabuk, Dammam, and Medina. Looking ahead, each new fleet addition will likely include cleaner fuels and more electric vehicles—not only for buses but also for taxis and sea transport.

Changing Habits, Changing Lives

In a country where car ownership is high and petrol is inexpensive, encouraging public transport usage is no small feat. But Hammam is confident. With better vehicles, smart apps, and easy payment methods, more people—especially younger users—are beginning to embrace the system. Families and students are increasingly seen on board, and the feedback so far is encouraging. “We believe that if we provide a good service, people will use it,” says Hammam.

Expanding Horizons

While the immediate focus is on densely populated areas, Jeddah’s future network is set to grow into the suburbs and surrounding developments. From the historic Al-Balad district to newer residential communities, every part of the city—and even regions beyond—will eventually be connected with high-quality, reliable transport options.

Final Thoughts

To anyone curious about Jeddah or watching the transformation from afar, Hammam has a simple message: “We try to do things differently. We try to make it more lively. I encourage everybody—visit Jeddah.”

Whether you’re drawn to its cultural richness, spiritual significance, business opportunities, or just want to see a city in motion, Jeddah is well on its way to becoming a model for 21st-century urban mobility.