Route 16: Al Batha to Jeddah Road Bridge

Why, Where, How

Route 16 connects downtown Al Batha with the Jeddah Road Bridge area—a mixed commercial and transportation hub serving regional commuters and long-distance travelers. This 12-kilometer route is ideal for traders, business owners accessing the bridge zone, and residents of the western neighborhoods. Purchase a SAR 4 standard two-hour pass via the Darb app or station machines. Frequency is consistent (approximately 10 minutes on weekdays), with adjustments on Fridays. The route operates 5:30 AM–11:30 PM daily, making it accessible for early market access and evening commutes.

Journey Experience & Landmarks

Route 16 is a commercial-transit corridor bridging downtown Riyadh with western distribution zones. Key stops include:

• Al Maglya Shopping Center (retail hub)
• King Saud Medical City (healthcare complex)
• Haggar School (educational institution)
• The modern Albadeah Mall (upscale shopping destination)
• The Al Nasr Club (sports and social facility)
• Finally the Jeddah Road Bridge—a critical transportation interchange for regional traffic

This 5-stop route takes approximately 20–25 minutes and transitions from urban commercial zones to logistics/trading areas. The route serves a diverse demographic including shoppers, business commuters, and regional travelers. Visual cue: the distinctive Albadeah Mall's modern architecture signals the final stretch toward Jeddah Road Bridge.

The "Local Scoop"

Route 16 buses offer full air-conditioning—essential during Riyadh's scorching summers, particularly for traders and workers spending full days in commerce zones. The route attracts working professionals, regional traders, and business owners; seating is pragmatic and first-come, first-served. While some buses maintain gender-segregated sections, the route is increasingly flexible on seating arrangements. During Ramadan, respect fasting passengers by avoiding food or beverages during daylight hours. Peak crowding occurs 7–8:30 AM (business commute) and 5–6:30 PM (work returns and trading activity). The Al Nasr Club stop attracts evening recreational traffic (sports and leisure). Midday travel (11 AM–2 PM) is more comfortable for those seeking lower-traffic journeys.

Integration & Comparisons

Route 16 intersects at Al Batha with all other bus routes (7, 8, 9, 10, 17) and Riyadh Metro access, enabling comprehensive city mobility. The Jeddah Road Bridge serves as a critical interchange for regional bus services and long-distance travelers heading toward Jeddah and western Saudi Arabia. A taxi from Al Batha to Jeddah Road Bridge costs approximately 50–70 SAR and takes 30–40 minutes; Route 16 at SAR 4 saves 93% while offering predictable timing. For traders or business owners making regular runs, a 7-day pass (SAR 40) provides unlimited access. The route connects critical commercial infrastructure and retail destinations. Use the Darb app for real-time tracking and seamless metro/bus integration.