YallaBus

YallaBus is an innovative mapping app designed to streamline Beirut’s informal public transportation system.¹ The initiative focuses on creating a user-friendly application that delivers real-time bus schedules directly to users’ smartphones. In addition to live updates, the app provides a comprehensive map of all bus routes across Beirut, making it easier for commuters to navigate the city’s public transport network efficiently.² The project was initiated by students at the American University of Beirut, Therese Kayrouz, Yara Nassar, Ghassan Zughaib and Georges Geha³ and was funded by grants and sponsorships.⁴ It was also supported by the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation.⁵ The project addresses the challenges posed by Lebanon’s bus system, which operates informally and without government oversight. This lack of structure makes it difficult for individuals to access information about routes and schedules unless they are already familiar with the system.⁶

The project aims to encourage the use of public transportation by making bus schedules and routes easily accessible to daily commuters.⁷ It seeks to improve the public transportation experience in Lebanon for both the passengers and drivers.⁸ In doing so, it seeks to alleviate traffic congestion, promote environmental sustainability, and provide an affordable alternative to taxis and private car ownership, particularly for those who cannot afford a car.⁹

The implementation of the project took place in the following stages :^{10 11}

• Initial Research: The team began by manually mapping bus routes and paths, gaining firsthand insights into the system’s operation.
• Engaging Drivers: Discussions were conducted with bus drivers to understand their specific routes and gather detailed information.
• Collaborating with Fleet Owners: Meetings were held with bus fleet owners operating in the city, persuading them to install GPS trackers on their vehicles to ensure accurate route tracking and data collection.
• Public Launch: After two years of dedicated work, YallaBus unveiled its bus map online that includes all the buses’ specific schedules, stops, and routes, making it accessible to the public. To complement the digital platform, approximately 3,000 printed maps were produced and distributed at the city’s universities, in restaurants, pubs, co-working spaces and coffee shops, ensuring broader accessibility and engagement.

This phased approach laid the foundation for a more organized and accessible public transportation experience. The app offers a user-friendly interface that enables individuals to receive real-time information for their desired destination. This includesthe bus they need to take, the estimated time to reach the nearest bus stop, and a real-time map tracking the bus throughout its journey.¹²

Drivers also benefit from the app’s features, as it allows them to monitor the number of passengers waiting at stops and assess the available capacity on the bus. If the bus reaches full capacity, the app can suggest alternative buses to accommodate the remaining passengers. Additionally, users can provide feedback on their experience directly through the app, fostering continuous improvements in service quality over time.¹³

The project first emerged from the “Reimagine Lebanon” competition,ⁱ an initiative organized by Live-Love-Beirut organization and CME Offshore, a leading software and application development company. The competition challenged participants to identify a pressing issue in Lebanon and propose an innovative solution. YallaBus stood out by addressing the inefficiencies of the informal public transport system and was awarded the first prize, with a $10,000 cash award. This milestone marked a turning point for the team, enabling them to begin developing their app.¹⁴