The King Fahd Causeway, a vital link between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, has experienced a significant surge in traffic this year. Around 30 million travelers have crossed the causeway in 2024, with 13 million vehicles recorded, according to Yousef Al Abdan, CEO of the General Organisation of King Fahad Causeway. The enhanced traffic flow results from expanded procedure areas and improved digital services.
Digital Advancements Accelerate Travel
The E-JESR app has revolutionized toll payments, reducing transaction times from 15 to 3 seconds. Currently, 55% of travelers use this pre-payment system. Automated transit gates introduced in 2020 further ease the crossing experience by eliminating manual interaction.
Opened in 1986, the 25-kilometer-long King Fahd Causeway is a testament to Saudi-Bahraini collaboration. Spanning seven artificial islands, it features five bridges, emergency curbs, mosques, and panoramic restaurants. The causeway facilitates an average of 45,000 vehicles daily, peaking at 60,000 on weekends.
Economic and Tourism Impact
This iconic infrastructure strengthens economic and tourism ties between the two nations. It is vital for logistics and a gateway for Bahraini tourists, who comprise 88% of visitors entering Bahrain via the causeway.
With rising traffic and continuous upgrades, the King Fahd Causeway remains pivotal for connectivity and growth in the Gulf region.
