Dubai’s public transport network is getting a major boost, with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) completing upgrades at 22 bus stations and preparing to roll out hundreds of low-emission and electric buses over the next two years.
Sixteen passenger stations and six depots across the emirate have been upgraded, with enhancements ranging from improved waiting areas and building facades to newly added prayer rooms in select locations. These renovations targeted nine key stations in Deira and seven in Bur Dubai, which collectively support 110 bus routes and serve up to 710 buses during peak hours.
Depot upgrades in Al Khawaneej, Al Qusais, Al Ruwayah, Al Awir, Jebel Ali, and Al Quoz included better workshops, maintenance lanes, engine washing systems, and redesigned bus parking areas. Improvements were also made to driver accommodations, lighting systems, and overall security infrastructure.
“The project complements RTA’s efforts to enhance the public transport infrastructure and encourage residents to use mass transit for their daily commuting,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, as quoted by Khaleej Times.
In a further push for sustainability, the authority signed a deal to add 637 new buses to the fleet between 2025 and 2026. This includes 40 electric, zero-emission buses from Zhongtong — the first of their kind in the UAE, tailored to regional conditions and rigorously tested.
The remaining fleet will consist of 400 MAN city buses (86 passengers each), 51 Zhongtong city buses (72 passengers each), 76 double-decker VOLVO buses (98 passengers each), and 70 articulated Isuzu Anadolu buses (111 passengers each).
