Public transport in Gulf states offers affordable, eco-friendly mobility and reduces traffic. Rapid network expansions since 2019 mean extensive coverage across major cities. This guide covers systems in Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait, with launch dates, hours, fares and tips.
Why Public Transit Matters in the Gulf
Public transit cuts congestion and lowers emissions. Investment in modern rail and bus networks supports growing populations. Cities aim to meet climate targets and improve quality of life by 2030.
Qatar (Doha Metro, Lusail Tram, Msheireb Tram & Buses)
Qatar’s integrated network links city and suburbs with rail and bus. The Doha Metro, launched in stages during 2019, A complete Map to serves major districts. Lusail Tram and Msheireb Tram provide last-mile heritage to cover all the Map and urban loops. Karwa buses fill coverage map gaps.
| Mode | Lines/Route | Launch Date | Hours | Fare Card |
| Doha Metro | Red, Green, Gold | May–Dec 2019 | 6 AM–11 PM | Karwa Smartcard |
| Lusail Tram | Orange & Pink Lines (7 stations) | Jan 1/Apr 9 2022 | 5 30 AM–midnight weekdays | Karwa Smartcard |
| Msheireb Tram | 9-stop heritage loop | Dec 30 2019 | 10 AM–10 PM | Tram ticket |
| Karwa Buses | Blue, Brown, Green routes | 2004 | 5 AM–11 PM | Karwa Smartcard |
United Arab Emirates (Dubai Metro, Tram & Buses)
Dubai leads with a two-line metro, an urban tram and an extensive bus fleet. Nol card unifies payment. Metro lines started in 2009 and 2011, tram in 2014, and RTA buses cover all seven emirates.
| Mode | Lines/Route | Launch Date | Hours | Fare Card |
| Metro | Red & Green | Sept 2009/2011 | 5 AM–midnight | Nol card |
| Tram | Al Sufouh | Nov 2014 | 6 AM–midnight | Nol card |
| RTA Buses | 100+ city/intercity routes | 2006 revamp | 4 AM–1 AM | Nol card |
Saudi Arabia (Riyadh Metro, Jeddah BRT & Buses)
Riyadh launched its six-line metro first phase in 2023, easing city travel. Jeddah’s BRT began in 2019, expanded in 2023. Nationwide SAPTCO buses connect urban and intercity routes. The Sela card works across systems.
| Mode | Lines/Route | Launch Date | Hours | Fare Card |
| Riyadh Metro | Lines 1–6 (Phase 1 open) | Mar 2023 | 5 AM–midnight | Sela card |
| Jeddah BRT | Corridors 1–3 | 2019/2023 | 6 AM–11 PM | Sela card |
| SAPTCO Buses | National & urban services | 2017 relaunch | 5 AM–midnight | Sela card |
Bahrain & Kuwait (Buses & Future Rail)
Bahrain modernized its bus network in 2015, offering 30+ routes. Kuwait revamped bus services in 2019 with automated fares. Both countries plan light rail or metro between 2025 and 2030.
| Country | Mode | Routes/Lines | Launch Date | Hours | Fare Card |
| Bahrain | Buses | 30+ urban routes | 2015 | 5 AM–11 PM | Bahrain Transport Card |
| Bahrain | Future Rail | 4 proposed lines | 2025–2030 | TBA | TBA |
| Kuwait | Buses | 25 urban routes | 2019 | 5 AM–midnight | Kuwait Transit Card |
| Kuwait | Future Metro | Proposed network | 2025–2030 | TBA | TBA |
Oman & Other GCC Transit Projects
Oman’s Mwasalat buses serve urban and intercity routes since 2009. Muscat Metro and Sohar tram/metro are in planning for 2027 under Vision 2040. The Hafeet Rail link to UAE will span 303 km by 2027.
| Country | Mode | Details | Status | Fare Card |
| Oman | Mwasalat Buses | 20+ routes | Operational since 2009 | Mwasalat Card |
| Oman | Muscat Metro | 50 km, 36 stations | Detailed study 2025 | TBA |
| Oman–UAE Link | Hafeet Rail | 303 km international line | Construction by 2027 | TBA |
| Sharjah & Ajman | Local Buses | 15+ routes | Active | Local Card |
How to Use Fare Cards & Apps
Each country issues a transit card (Karwa, Nol, Sela, Mwasalat, etc.). Cards are sold at stations and online; top up via kiosks or mobile apps.
Official apps offer live arrivals, journey planning and e-wallet features.
Fares, Passes & Discounts
Ride fares vary (e.g., QR 2 in Qatar, AED 3 in Dubai). Daily/monthly passes save regular riders money.
Students, seniors and tourists receive discounted rates. Qatar day-pass costs QR 6 for unlimited metro/tram rides.
Tips for Smooth Transit Travel
Travel off-peak to avoid crowds (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM). Use women-only carriages in Qatar and Saudi.
All systems are wheelchair-accessible; follow local etiquette. Dress modestly in Saudi, Oman and Qatar.
Conclusion
Gulf public transit offers efficient, affordable travel in major cities. Qatar and UAE systems are fully operational; Saudi and Oman projects expand rapidly. Get your smartcards early, download official apps, and plan journeys by operating hours.
Explore city-specific guides for detailed routes, fares and tools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use contactless bank cards?
Some networks accept NFC; smartcards are most reliable.
Are late-night services reliable?
Most services run until 11 PM; weekend extensions apply.
Are transfers free within networks?
Free transfers are common within metro, tram or bus networks during a set window.
Luys Parker