New operational rules for cross-border taxi services between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway have been clarified following a circular issued by the Saudi Transport General Authority on September 13, 2026.
While licensed taxi services between the two nations commenced on September 6, 2026, the Bahrain Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications confirmed that operators must comply with specific cross-border travel, vehicle, and passenger documentation requirements.
- Licensed taxi services started on September 6, 2026.
- Saudi and Bahraini operators must follow strict new travel rules.
- Standard ride-hailing apps do not guarantee Causeway authorization.
According to the TGA,
Saudi carriers must possess a valid operating license and process bookings through authorized transport brokers. Operators are required to submit passenger loading manifests, verify driver and passenger identities, and ensure integration with security systems like Shomoos. Travel documents must be verified prior to departure, and fares must adhere to approved tariffs.
Importantly, Saudi taxis are currently prohibited from picking up return passengers in Bahrain until further notice, and they are not permitted to perform point-to-point domestic transport within Bahrain.
Bahraini taxis are subject to their own regulatory framework, requiring a
Temporary Operating Card for Taxis to Transport Passengers via King Fahd Causeway. Operators must apply by providing vehicle details, contact information, and driver credentials via the Ministry's designated WhatsApp number, 17337822.
Vehicles used for this service must meet specific technical requirements and be no older than five years.
For Indian expatriates and other residents, the service does not grant automatic entry rights.
Travelers must possess valid passports, residency documents, and visas or eVisa approvals. Passengers are advised to confirm that their chosen taxi is specifically authorized for cross-border transit at the time of booking, as standard ride-hailing apps do not guarantee authorization for the Causeway. Complaints regarding Bahraini taxis can be directed to the Ministry at +973 17337823, provided that the taxi plate number, date, time, and location are documented.
