Saudi Taxis Now Allowed to Drive to Bahrain

Licensed taxis operating in Saudi Arabia are now permitted to carry passengers directly to Bahrain across the King Fahd Causeway, under joint regulations that took effect on 6 September 2026. The move adds a new, fully regulated option for travellers heading between the two countries.

The authorization is issued by Saudi Arabia's Transport General Authority in coordination with the relevant Bahraini authority. Only taxis holding valid Saudi commercial licenses and meeting approved technical, security, safety, and service-quality standards may operate across the border. Eligible vehicles must be no more than five years old and comply with all administrative rules and applicable international transport agreements.

For now, the permission covers outbound trips only. Saudi taxis may transport passengers from Saudi territory to Bahrain, but they are not allowed to pick up passengers within Bahrain, run internal trips inside Bahrain, or carry return-trip passengers originating in Bahrain until the policy is updated.

Cross-border trips operate mainly between the Eastern Province — notably Dammam and Al Khobar — and Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway, with door-to-door service from Saudi pickup points once border formalities are completed. Before the new system, one-way fares from Al Khobar to central Manama typically ranged from SAR 100–150 including the causeway toll, while Dammam to Manama trips ran about SAR 150–200. Some operators quote packaged fares from Dammam starting around SAR 350 for a sedan, SAR 600 for an SUV, and SAR 750 for a family van, with the causeway toll (about SAR 35) and mandatory border vehicle insurance included; passengers pay their own visa or entry fees separately at immigration.

What it means for travellers

No special Saudi e-platform is required specifically to book or use the service — standard passport, visa, and border-control procedures still apply at the causeway. The new taxi option joins existing modes such as private cars, buses, and private transfer services, giving residents in the Eastern Province a more convenient way to reach Bahrain.

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