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Transport guide

Bus · Saudi Arabia

SAPTCO Intercity Buses (SAT)

The Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) runs the country's main intercity coach network under the SAT Transportation brand. It covers about 106 cities and hubs on 31 routes. Buses are the cheapest way to travel between cities that have no train, such as Riyadh and Jeddah or Abha.

Official website
OperatorSAPTCO, brand SAT Transportation
NetworkAbout 31 routes, 106 cities and hubs
Main citiesRiyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Dammam, Al Ahsa, Taif, Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, Najran
ClassesRegular and VIP
Riyadh to DammamAbout 4 to 5 hours; about SAR 80 to 110
Riyadh to JeddahAbout 9 to 10 hours; about SAR 135 to 215
Fare rangeAbout SAR 8 to 230, by route and class
ChildrenUnder 2 free without seat; ages 2 to 12 half price with a parent
Bookingsatrans.com.sa or app; pay by card

Routes

SAT buses connect the main regions of the Kingdom. Busy routes include Riyadh to Jeddah, Riyadh to Dammam and Al Ahsa, Jeddah to Taif, and Makkah to Abha, Jazan and Najran. Short regional links also run, such as Dammam to Al Ahsa and Abha to Khamis Mushait.

Long routes take many hours. Riyadh to Jeddah takes about 9 to 10 hours and Riyadh to Abha about 10 to 11 hours. Buses stop for breaks on the way.

Tickets and fares

There are two classes. Regular is the standard coach. VIP costs more and offers more comfort and fewer stops.

Recent sample fares: Dammam to Al Ahsa about SAR 26, Riyadh to Dammam about SAR 81 regular or SAR 108 VIP, and Riyadh to Jeddah about SAR 135 to 214. Short hops like Abha to Khamis Mushait cost under SAR 10. Prices change and VAT may apply, so check the live fare.

Children under 2 travel free without a seat. Children aged 2 to 12 get 50% off when travelling with a parent.

How to book

Book on satrans.com.sa or the SAT app. Create an account, search your trip, enter passenger details and pay by card. The ticket is sent by email. Bookings open up to about 30 days ahead.

For Riyadh to Jeddah and holiday dates, book a few days early as seats fill up.

Tips for travellers

Carry your ticket and a valid ID: Saudi ID, GCC ID, Iqama, or a passport with visa for visitors.

Extra baggage costs about SAR 2 per kg if there is space.

If you are short on time, compare with the train: Riyadh to Dammam is faster by SAR train, and Jeddah to Makkah or Madinah is faster on the Haramain train.

Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the bus from Riyadh to Jeddah?

About 9 to 10 hours, including stops.

How much is the SAPTCO bus from Riyadh to Dammam?

About SAR 81 in regular class and about SAR 108 in VIP. Prices change.

Is SAPTCO the same as SAT?

Yes. SAPTCO sells its intercity trips under the SAT Transportation brand.

What ID do I need?

A Saudi ID, GCC ID or Iqama, or a passport and visa for visitors.

Do children pay full fare?

No. Under 2 is free without a seat, and ages 2 to 12 pay half with a parent.