Muscat – Mwasalat has announced an initiative offering unlimited free bus travel across its urban networks in Muscat and Salalah on Friday, April 17 to mark World Public Transport Day in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology,.

Under the initiative, passengers will be able to use all city bus services operated by Mwasalat free of charge throughout the day. The offer allows residents and visitors to travel across major destinations served by the network, encouraging more people to experience public transport and explore its role in supporting sustainable mobility in Oman’s rapidly growing urban centres.

Officials said the initiative is part of broader efforts to promote environmentally responsible transport options and reduce reliance on private vehicles. By providing free access for a full day, authorities hope residents who rarely use buses will discover the convenience, affordability and reliability of public transport and consider incorporating it into their daily routines.

The campaign also aims to raise awareness of the environmental advantages of public transport, including lower carbon emissions and improved traffic flow in congested urban areas. Muscat, in particular, has seen steady growth in private vehicle ownership in recent years, contributing to heavier traffic during peak hours.

Public transport authorities believe initiatives such as the ‘free travel day’ can help familiarise residents with existing bus routes, modern vehicles and digital ticketing systems. The Mwasalat network currently connects several residential neighbourhoods, commercial districts and tourism hubs, providing an alternative mobility option for commuters, students and visitors.

On social media, several citizens welcomed the initiative, describing it as a positive step towards encouraging wider use of public transport.

Khalid Al Hinai wrote on X that the free travel day presents a valuable opportunity for residents to try bus services in Muscat. “Many people have never taken the bus before. A free day will encourage them to leave their cars at home and see how easy it is to move around the city using public transport,” he posted.

Another X user, Aisha Al Busaidi, said the initiative reflects growing awareness about sustainable mobility in Oman. “This is a great idea. Public transport helps reduce traffic and protects the environment. I hope more people will try the buses and support this initiative,” she wrote.

Observers say such initiatives also highlight Oman’s broader efforts to modernise its transport sector while supporting national sustainability goals through the promotion of shared mobility solutions.