A smart way to get around KAUST

After completing two successful test phases, Community Life is now expanding its app-based mobility service. This is paired with a change in the bus schedule.

 

The new service aims to enhance the experience for community members who use on-campus buses, and has several advantages:

• Flexible – The bus arrives upon request and takes you to your chosen destination
• Efficient – The average trip duration is shorter than with the existing service
• Eco-friendly – The new service emits and consumes less than the existing service
  

The on-demand bus app uses smart technology to put rides together who are going in the same direction.

Pilot feedback

We've received positive feedback from community members that tested the on-demand bus during our two test phases. 73% of test users preferred it to the existing bus service. We've implemented your feedback and the new app-based mobility service will become fully operational on Sunday, February 2.

“It’s like a shared Uber-ride using buses,” one user said.

On-campus bus schedule update

Effective February 2, the color-coded on-campus bus schedule (including weekends) will be adjusted and complemented by the on-demand service. Please find the new schedule below.

 

	on-demand service	color-coded bus
6:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M.	–	every 15 minutes
9:30 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.	✓	every 30 minutes
7:00 P.M. – 1:00 A.M.	✓	–

 

Booking an on-demand bus ride

To use this new service, download the app available on Google Play Store or Apple App Store. WiFi is available at every bus stop on campus.

A smartphone is not required to book a trip with the on-demand bus; you can call the Saptco helpdesk for booking assistance at 012-808-5222. Calls can also be made from home phones or phones in recreation centers.

The on-demand bus will take you directly to the bus stop closest to your destination on campus and in residential areas of KAUST, so you don't lose time changing buses anymore.

 

 

The on-demand bus covers the area indicated on the map. South Beach and King Abdullah Monument are currently excluded from its operation area. Fun Bus (route 2) to South Beach and King Abdullah Monument (KAM) Bus route follow the same operational schedule as before.

Please note that the Fun Bus (route 1) to Safaa Golf Club has been cancelled.

 

Contact us

For more information or technical support contact Saptco at saptco.bus@kaust.edu.sa or 012-808-5222.

 

On-demand or autonomous?

Please note that this new on-demand bus is a separate service to the autonomous shuttle which has also launched recently. Learn more about the autonomous shuttle.

Regards,
Nabeel Masoudi

Interim Director, Community Services & Engagement