- Booking options: Website, SAPTCO app, kiosks, ticket counters, agents
- Ticket classes: Economy, VIP, and Business
- Popular routes: Riyadh–Jeddah, Riyadh–Makkah, Jeddah–Madinah
- Prices start at ~20 SAR for short trips and can exceed 400 SAR for long-distance VIP journeys
- Payments: Mada, Visa, Mastercard, STC Pay, SADAD, or cash at counters
SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) is Saudi Arabia’s largest intercity bus operator, running over 4,500 vehicles that connect all major cities. With Economy, Business, and VIP options, SAPTCO offers affordable fares for budget travelers as well as premium comfort for long routes.
This updated 2025 guide covers how to buy tickets, expanded fare tables (Economy vs. VIP), payment methods, and insider tips for a smooth trip.
How to Buy SAPTCO Bus Tickets
1. Online (SAPTCO Website)
- Visit the SAPTCO official site.
- Select departure city, destination, travel date, and class.
- Pay with Mada, Visa, Mastercard, STC Pay, or SADAD.
- Get your e-ticket via SMS/email.
2. SAPTCO Mobile App
- Available on Android and iOS.
- Real-time schedules.
- Economy or VIP bus selection.
- Pay and download your QR ticket.
3. Self-Service Kiosks
- Installed at major bus stations.
- Book instantly with card or SADAD.
4. Ticket Counters
- Found at all SAPTCO stations.
- Accept cash or card payments.
5. Authorized Agents
- Available in airports, malls, and gas stations.
- Useful if you’re away from bus terminals.
SAPTCO Ticket Prices (2025 Update)
💡 Below are average ticket prices for Economy vs. VIP/Business buses. Prices vary slightly based on demand, season, and booking method.
From Riyadh
| Destination | Economy Fare (SAR) | VIP/Business Fare (SAR) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dammam | 98 | 170–210 | 6h |
| Jeddah | 219–230 | 250–280 | 12–16h |
| Makkah | 184 | 230–260 | 11–14h |
| Madinah | 223 | 260–290 | 13–14h |
| Abha | 239–376 | 320–400 | 14–28h |
| Najran | 224–429 | 300–450 | 14–34h |
| Yanbu | 269–329 | 350–410 | 14–33h |
From Makkah
| Destination | Economy Fare (SAR) | VIP/Business Fare (SAR) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeddah | 20 | 40 | 1h 30m |
| Riyadh | 184 | 240–270 | 13–14h |
| Madinah | 69 | 120–150 | 6h |
| Abha | 177 | 220–260 | 9h |
| Tabuk | 243 | 290–330 | 14h |
From Jeddah
| Destination | Economy Fare (SAR) | VIP/Business Fare (SAR) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah | 20 | 40 | 1h |
| Madinah | 69 | 120–150 | 6h |
| Riyadh | 219–230 | 250–280 | 11–15h |
| Dammam | 308–328 | 370–420 | 18–21h |
| Najran | 230–320 | 300–370 | 15–25h |
From Madinah
| Destination | Economy Fare (SAR) | VIP/Business Fare (SAR) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makkah | 69 | 120–150 | 5–7h |
| Riyadh | 223 | 260–290 | 11–13h |
| Jeddah | 69 | 120–150 | 6h |
| Dammam | 277 | 340–380 | 18h |
| Najran | 314–331 | 370–420 | 25–37h |
From Dammam
| Destination | Economy Fare (SAR) | VIP/Business Fare (SAR) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | 223 | 260–300 | 11–13h |
| Makkah | 282 | 340–380 | 22h |
| Jeddah | 308–328 | 370–420 | 18–21h |
From Yanbu
| Destination | Economy Fare (SAR) | VIP/Business Fare (SAR) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeddah | 99 | 150 | 6h |
| Makkah | 112 | 160 | 6h |
| Madinah | 72 | 120 | 4h |
| Riyadh | 269–329 | 350–410 | 15–21h |
Payment Methods for SAPTCO Tickets
- Online: Mada, Visa, Mastercard, STC Pay, SADAD
- Counters/agents: Cash or card
- E-tickets: Show a digital copy or print a hard copy
Insider Tips for Travelers
- Book 2–3 days in advance for popular routes like Riyadh–Jeddah.
- Use VIP buses for long journeys (extra legroom, Wi-Fi, refreshments).
- Always carry an Iqama or a passport for intercity travel.
- Save a screenshot of your e-ticket as backup.
Travelers can save money by pairing their trip with affordable connectivity. Check our guide to Visitor SIM Card Packages in Saudi Arabia.
FAQs
A. Tickets can be booked up to 30 days in advance online or via the app.
A. Yes, available on Android & iOS for booking, schedules, and payments.
A. Saudi Public Transport Company.
A. Mada, Visa, Mastercard, SADAD, STC Pay, and cash at counters.
A. Yes, VIP buses include Wi-Fi, refreshments, and wider seating.
A. Yes, with a passport instead of an Iqama.
A. Yes, via website or app. A small cancellation fee may apply.
Conclusion
SAPTCO remains the most affordable and reliable way to travel across Saudi Arabia in 2025. With ticket prices starting as low as 20 SAR for Economy and premium VIP options for long routes, SAPTCO meets every traveler’s needs.
By booking online or via the app, using multiple payment methods, and planning ahead, you can make your journey smooth and cost-effective.
For added convenience, get a Visitor SIM Card to stay connected while traveling.
DISCLAIMER: This blog post is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to ensure the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and well-sourced, we cannot guarantee its completeness or absolute accuracy. All images, videos, and logos featured on this page are the property of their respective owners. We make every effort to provide proper credit and references. If you are the rightful owner and would like your image, video, or logo removed, please contact us.
I am Maryam Khalid, an undergraduate student pursuing a degree in BS Mathematics. Alongside my academic journey, I have been working as a Content Writer at Saudi Scoop for some time now. While mathematics intrigues me as a subject, I also find great comfort in writing and literature. I am excited to continue this journey of learning and growth with Saudi Scoop as we navigate creative ways to convey ideas efficiently.
ما هي أكثر سيارة مبيعاً في التاريخ ؟
بالحديث عن أكثر السيارات مبيعاً حول العالم، نجد سيارة تويوتا كورولا تتربع على القائمة، وهي ملقبة بسيارة الشعب، فهي تتميز بتجهيزاتها التي تلائم الأفراد والعائلات، كما أن سعرها يعتبر صفقة مربحة لأي مشتري.
وقد بدأ تصنيع السيارة تويوتا كورولا بواسطة الشركة اليابانية منذ عام 1966م، ومنذ ذلك الوقت وحتى يومنا هذا استطاعت أن تحقق أرقاما كبيرة في المبيعات حول العالم، فقد تجاوزت مبيعاتها الـ 50 مليون نسخة، حتى عام 2021 فقط