In a significant advancement, Saudi Arabia has officially initiated the test run of its eagerly awaited sea taxi project in Jeddah. The Mayor of Jeddah, Saleh Al-Turki, inaugurated this innovative project on Thursday, 6 March. He was joined by Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics Rumaih Al-Rumaih and several other government officials.
معالي #أمين_جدة يدشن #التاكسي_البحري في مدينة #جدة @JeddahAmanah @JeddahTransport pic.twitter.com/4DUcg2zOXn
— Jeddah Transport Company (JTC) شركة مواصلات جدة (@JeddahTransport) March 6, 2025
This first phase of the sea taxi project provides critical connections among three key locations in Jeddah:
- Jeddah Yacht Club
- Al-Balad Historic District
- Sharm Obhur District
Currently, the service operates two boats: one with a capacity of 94 passengers and another seating 55 passengers.
Convenient Service Hours and Accessible Pricing
During the holy month of Ramadan, the sea taxi service runs daily from 3:30 pm until 1:30 am. Ticket fares vary, ranging from SR25 to SR50, while children travel for free. Notably, the boats offer dedicated access points for individuals with disabilities, accommodating up to four wheelchairs.
Passengers can easily book tickets through the user-friendly Jeddah Transport Company app.
Mayor Saleh Al-Turki emphasized the strategic significance of the sea taxi, describing it as a vital addition to Jeddah’s tourism and maritime transport sector. This project aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on improving the nation’s transport infrastructure.
Furthermore, Jeddah Transport Company CEO Eng. Yousef Al-Sayegh stressed that this initiative will significantly enhance safe and efficient maritime travel. He believes it will directly contribute to an improved quality of life in Jeddah.
Project Background and Financial Overview
The Jeddah sea taxi project was first announced in October 2017, reflecting long-term planning to integrate maritime transport into the city’s infrastructure. In 2019, Saudi newspaper Al-Watan reported that the project’s cost at that time was 36 million Saudi riyals, indicating significant investment in developing this innovative transport solution. This historical context illustrates the government’s commitment to realizing Vision 2030, with the sea taxi project serving as a tangible outcome of these efforts.
The launch of the sea taxi project in Jeddah represents more than just a new mode of transport; it symbolizes a shift toward integrated, sustainable urban mobility. By connecting key cultural and recreational sites, the service is expected to boost tourism, reduce road congestion, and enhance the overall travel experience. The inclusion of accessibility features for people with disabilities further ensures that the benefits of this project reach a diverse population, fostering inclusivity.
Looking ahead, the success of this test run could pave the way for expansion to other coastal cities, potentially transforming maritime transport across Saudi Arabia. The project’s alignment with Vision 2030 also suggests potential for further innovations in public transportation, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification and urban development goals.
