The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has completed a major upgrade of 22 public bus stations and depots, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the city’s public transportation infrastructure. This project reflects Dubai’s commitment to improving mobility, sustainability, and passenger experience, aligning with the emirate’s vision for a smart and eco-friendly urban future.
Project Scope and Details
The RTA’s initiative involved upgrading 16 passenger stations and 6 bus depots across Dubai. The passenger stations, with 9 located in Deira and 7 in Bur Dubai, underwent extensive refurbishments to improve commuter comfort and operational efficiency. Key improvements include:
- Modernized Waiting Areas: Upgraded seating and shaded areas to enhance passenger comfort.
- Renovated Building Façades: Updated designs to improve aesthetics and functionality.
- Improved Infrastructure Systems: Enhanced electrical, lighting, and drainage systems for better reliability.
- New Pavements: Upgraded walkways to ensure safer and more accessible pedestrian movement.
- Prayer Spaces: Added at select stations to cater to passengers’ needs.
These stations now support 110 bus routes and can handle up to 710 buses during peak hours, ensuring smoother and more efficient operations for Dubai’s growing population.
The six bus depots—located at Al Khawaneej, Al Qusais, Al Ruwayah, Al Awir, Jebel Ali, and Al Quoz—received comprehensive upgrades to improve bus maintenance and operational efficiency. The enhancements include:
- Revamped Maintenance Workshops: Modernized facilities to streamline bus repairs and upkeep.
- Dedicated Inspection Lanes: New lanes to facilitate faster and more thorough bus inspections.
- State-of-the-Art Engine Washing Systems: Advanced systems to maintain bus engines in top condition.
- Improved Lighting and Drainage: Upgraded systems to enhance safety and functionality.
- Enhanced Driver Facilities: Better accommodations to support bus drivers’ well-being.
- Redesigned Parking Layouts: Optimized layouts to improve bus parking efficiency and depot operations.
- Enhanced Security Measures: Upgraded systems to ensure the safety of facilities and staff.
| Aspect | Details |
| Total Facilities Upgraded | 22 (16 passenger stations, 6 bus depots) |
| Passenger Stations | 9 in Deira, 7 in v |
| Station Upgrades | Modernized waiting areas, renovated façades, improved infrastructure, new pavements, prayer spaces |
| Bus Routes Supported | 110 routes |
| Peak-Hour Capacity | Up to 710 buses |
| Depots Upgraded | Al Khawaneej, Al Qusais, Al Ruwayah, Al Awir, Jebel Ali, Al Quoz |
| Depot Upgrades | Revamped workshops, inspection lanes, engine washing systems, improved lighting, drainage, driver facilities, security, and parking layouts |
Strategic Goals and Impact
The upgrades align with RTA’s strategic objectives to expand Dubai’s public transport network, elevate service quality, and promote safe, integrated mobility. By enhancing the infrastructure, RTA aims to meet the expectations of residents and visitors while encouraging greater use of mass transit to reduce reliance on private vehicles. This initiative supports Dubai’s broader sustainability goals by promoting eco-friendly transportation options and reducing carbon emissions.
The project also enhances connectivity through first- and last-mile solutions, including improved pedestrian pathways, bicycle parking, and safe crossing points. The upgraded stations integrate seamlessly with other public transport modes, such as the Dubai Metro and taxis, creating a cohesive and efficient commuting experience. Key stations, such as Al Ghubaiba, Union, Al Jafiliya, Oud Metha, Al Satwa, Etisalat, Al Baraha, International City, and Dubai International Airport (Terminal 3), benefit from these connectivity enhancements.
Future Fleet Expansion
In parallel with the infrastructure upgrades, RTA has invested in a new fleet of 637 buses, set to be delivered between 2025 and 2026. This includes:
- 40 Fully Electric Zhongtong Buses: Zero-emission, 12-meter buses with a capacity of 72 passengers each, marking the largest contract for electric buses in the UAE.
- 400 MAN City Buses: 12-meter buses with a capacity of 86 passengers each.
- 51 Zhongtong City Buses: 12-meter buses with a capacity of 72 passengers each.
- 76 Volvo Double-Decker Buses: 13-meter buses with a capacity of 98 passengers each.
- 70 Isuzu Anadolu Articulated Buses: 18-meter buses with a capacity of 111 passengers each.
All new buses comply with the European “Euro 6” low-emission standards, positioning Dubai as a regional leader in sustainable public transport. This fleet expansion complements the infrastructure upgrades, ensuring that the enhanced stations and depots are supported by modern, eco-friendly vehicles.
| Bus Type | Quantity | Length | Passenger Capacity | Emission Standard |
| Zhongtong Electric | 40 | 12m | 72 | Zero-emission |
| MAN City Buses | 400 | 12m | 86 | Euro 6 |
| Zhongtong City Buses | 51 | 12m | 72 | Euro 6 |
| Volvo Double-Decker | 76 | 13m | 98 | Euro 6 |
| Isuzu Anadolu Articulated | 70 | 18m | 111 | Euro 6 |
Significance for Dubai
These upgrades significantly enhance the commuting experience for Dubai’s residents and visitors, offering more comfortable, accessible, and efficient public transport options. By modernizing infrastructure and introducing low-emission buses, RTA is reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in sustainable urban development and transportation innovation. The project also supports the city’s growing population and its ambition to remain a hub for tourism and business.
