The Public Transport Authority revealed today new record figures reflecting the rapid development in the land transport sector, as the quarterly statistical bulletin showed that the total number of trips registered through passenger transport applications exceeded 43 million trips during the fourth quarter of 2025. This figure represents a remarkable growth with an increase of 54.26% compared to the same period of the previous year, which confirms the success of national strategies in promoting digital transformation in the transport sector.
Geographical distribution of flights: Riyadh in the lead
In detailing the geographical distribution of flights, the authority explained that the capital, Riyadh, accounted for the largest share of operations, registering a dominance rate of 44.56% of total flights. This reflects the economic activity and high population density in the capital. Makkah in second place with 21.89%, driven by the movement of pilgrims and visitors, followed by the Eastern Province with 14.20%, then Madinah with 5.94%, and the Asir region with 3.20%.
As for the remaining regions, Al-Qassim recorded 2.95%, followed by Tabuk at 2.39%, Hail at 1.83%, and Jazan at 1.24%. Najran ranked last with 0.67%, followed by Al-Jawf at 0.57%, the Northern Borders region at 0.32%, and finally Al-Baha region at 0.23%.
The context of digital transformation and Vision 2030
These figures cannot be read in isolation from the general context of the development witnessed by the transport and logistics sector in the Kingdom, which is one of the main pillars of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The regulatory legislation approved by the Public Transport Authority during the past years has contributed to raising the efficiency of this sector, through the localization of vehicle routing activity, which created thousands of job opportunities for citizens with flexible and full work systems, and enhanced the confidence of beneficiaries in the services provided.
Economic and social impact
This significant increase in reliance on transportation apps reflects a fundamental shift in consumer behavior within Saudi cities. These apps have become the preferred mode of transport for a broad segment of society due to their accessibility, safety, and transparent pricing. Economically, this growth contributes to a substantial influx of cash into the local market and supports related sectors such as tourism and entertainment, particularly in holy cities and tourist destinations experiencing peak seasons.
The Public Transport Authority affirms its continued monitoring and improvement of the quality of services provided through these digital platforms, to ensure the provision of smart and reliable transportation options that meet the aspirations of residents and visitors, and keep pace with the population and urban growth witnessed in various regions of the Kingdom.
