The Omani-Saudi international bus service was launched today.
- The Omani-Saudi bus is a two-way trip from Muscat to Riyadh taking an estimated time of 18 to 20 hours.
- There will be 3 stops in Oman, Ruwi, Nizwa and Ibri and one stop in Saudi Arabia in Dammam.
- The trip will cost SR250 ($66) until the end of the month and then the price will increase to SR350 ($93).
The first international bus service between Muscat and Riyadh will start on Thursday, traversing the empty quarter road that connects the two countries.
Rashid Al-Khanjary, who owns Al-Khanjary Transport, told the Observer that the bus will leave Muscat at 6 in the morning and reach the Riyadh Azizia area at 5 in the evening.
The travel time will vary from 18 to 20 hours, depending on the time taken for immigration and other formalities at the border.
He also stated, “Timings from Riyadh will be adjusted as per the passenger demand.”
There will be a promotional deal offering a discounted price of SR250 ($66), the offer will end by the start of March and the price will increase to SR350 ($93).
According to Rashid Al-Khanjary the Government of Saudi Arabia has demanded that the busses transport at least 25 passengers per trip.
The Omani-Saudi service allows for three stops in the Sultanate of Oman, which are:
- Ruwi
- Nizwa
- Ibri.
The Omani-Saudi busses will move northside from Oman, heading towards the city of Dammam, the capital of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and the fourth most populated city to continue the trip to the Saudi Capital of Riyadh.
Rashid Al-Khanjary also stated that the trip to Dammam would add some travel time but it shouldn’t be an issue since the company will provide dual carriageway for a comfortable ride.
He finished by saying that there will be two drivers operating the bus on the route to ensure safety and allow for some rest stops.
The bus will also carry both citizens and expatriates with some expatriates of some nations having Visa-on-arrival options or other similar exemptions.
