Starting September 6, 2026, licensed taxis are officially permitted to transport passengers across the King Fahd Causeway between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. This cross-border initiative, coordinated by Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and relevant Saudi authorities, aims to streamline travel for residents, visitors, and commuters.
- Service starts September 6, 2026
- Limited to locally licensed taxis with a Temporary Operating Card
- Helps Indian expats and others travel between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia
The service is strictly limited to locally licensed taxis that have obtained a mandatory
Temporary Operating Card for Taxis from the Bahraini ministry. Applications for this card require vehicle details, contact information, and, if applicable, the name and CPR number of an assistant driver. Applicants can contact the ministry via
WhatsApp at 17337822. This framework provides a formal transportation option for Indian expats and others traveling between Manama, Seef, and Juffair in Bahrain and locations like Al Khobar, Dammam, and Dhahran in Saudi Arabia.
While this formalizes taxi transport, passengers must still comply with all immigration and visa requirements.
A valid visa or residency status remains mandatory for entry into either country, as the transport service does not supersede standard border regulations. Regarding costs, passengers are responsible for the BD 3.500 King Fahd Causeway toll charge and any additional fees. Standard Bahrain taxi tariffs include a BD 1 starting fare from Sunday to Thursday (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM) and a BD 1.250 starting fare during nights, weekends, and public holidays, with a BD 2 surcharge for journeys exceeding 25 km. Total costs may vary based on waiting times, traffic, and distance; therefore, passengers are advised to
clarify the total fare with the driver before commencing the trip.
Travelers are encouraged to monitor border congestion using the King Fahd Causeway Authority's
JESR app. In the event of a vehicle breakdown, the authority provides roadside assistance at
800 4000 999. Fatima Abdullah Al-Dhaen, Undersecretary for Land Transport and Postal Services, stated that the arrangement is designed to provide flexible, safe, and efficient transport options. Both Bahrain-based and Saudi-based travelers can utilize this service for airport transfers and business or personal visits.
