Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the arrival of the first batch of 250 new buses, as part of a larger contract for 735 multi-size buses that comply with the Euro 6 low-carbon emissions standard.
This batch includes 40 electric buses, marking the UAE’s largest electric bus procurement. The buses feature advanced technologies, including a driver behavior monitoring system, automated passenger counting, and electronic driver authentication.
The first electric bus, a Zhongtong model, has been tailored for Dubai’s conditions, with a range of 280 km on a single charge and a battery capacity of 434 kWh. It has undergone over three months of testing, yielding positive results in energy efficiency, brake performance, and system safety.
These buses will form part of RTA’s long-term plan for all public transport to be powered by clean energy and zero emissions by 2050 in support of the Dubai government’s target of reducing carbon emissions and achieving climate neutrality.
The new buses, built to high safety and comfort standards, include 400 MAN city-service buses, 149 Zhongtong buses, 76 Volvo double-decker buses, and 70 Isuzu articulated buses. They are designed to enhance public transport service in Dubai, supporting the city’s growing ridership and contributing to the Dubai Urban Plan 2040.
HE Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer Director-General, Chairman of Board of Executive Directors Dubai RTA
“The procurement of the new buses forms part of the implementation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. These directives aim to deliver a sustainable and flexible public transport system that facilitates mobility for residents and visitors, enhances quality of life, strengthens Dubai’s global competitiveness as a leading destination for major international events, and supports the objectives of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040.”
“Furthermore, these efforts also support RTA’s Zero-Emission Public Transport Strategy 2050, which aims to convert all buses, taxis, and limousine vehicles to zero-emission operation. Under this strategy, RTA seeks to transition 100 percent of public transport buses to electric and hydrogen power by 2050,” Al Tayer noted.
This project is part of RTA’s comprehensive plan to enhance the overall Dubai transport landscape by addressing sustainability, service quality, and global competitiveness. The buses also reflect Dubai’s modern image with smart systems, ergonomic design, and features for accessibility, such as low-floor entrances and spaces for bicycles.
