Preparatory works commenced for Phase 1 of the Bahrain Metro Rail project

Manama, Bahrain (Metro Rail Today): Bahrain has officially commenced preparatory works for Phase 1 of the Bahrain Metro project, marking a major milestone in the Kingdom’s transition toward modern, sustainable urban transport.

The announcement was confirmed on 4 January 2026 by HE Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, who stated that route preparations are now underway as part of the project’s implementation roadmap.

Phase 1 to feature two high-capacity metro corridors

Phase 1 of the Bahrain Metro will form the backbone of the country’s future mass-transit system. It will comprise two primary lines covering 28.6 km and serving 20 metro stations, including two major interchange hubs:

???? Red Line (Airport–Seef Line): Directly connecting Bahrain International Airport with the Seef business district

???? Blue Line (Juffair–Isa Town Line): Linking key residential and commercial zones across the capital region

The two key interchange stations will be located at:

• Bahrain Financial Harbour

• Manama Central Market

These hubs are planned as crucial nodes for intermodal integration and future network expansion.

Phase 2 to follow as part of larger national network

Phase 1 will be followed by Phase 2, which will significantly expand coverage across additional urban corridors. The full Bahrain Metro network has been conceived as part of a long-term national transport masterplan, aiming for seamless integration with regional mobility systems.

In a strategic move, the Bahrain Metro project is being developed in coordination with the GCC Railway initiative. While both projects are being implemented separately, their eventual integration will support:

• cross-border passenger connectivity

• increased regional trade flows

• enhanced economic cooperation among Gulf countries

Three pillars of national impact

The Bahrain Metro project is expected to deliver transformative benefits in line with Bahrain’s economic diversification and sustainability goals:

• Reduced traffic congestion through provision of reliable mass rapid transit

• Environmental sustainability by cutting emissions from private vehicle usage

• Economic connectivity through better access to business districts, job centres and residential communities

Final project designs and cost structures are currently under refinement to reflect market conditions and ongoing technical studies.

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said:

“The Bahrain Metro marks a pivotal shift in the Gulf region’s public transport landscape. By prioritising sustainable mobility, Bahrain is not only easing urban congestion but also unlocking new economic and social opportunities for future generations.”

The Bahrain Metro project is widely seen as a long-term national investment, reinforcing Bahrain’s commitment to modern infrastructure and smart city development.