Dubai's bus-on-demand serves new route

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has expanded its 'Bus on Demand' service to Business Bay following a successful month-long trial.

The decision is in response to the growing demand for the service which has helped strengthen the city's mass transit network and ease congestion in vital areas.

"The service offers an innovative solution for first and last-mile trips, and links customers to the nearest mass transit stations," said Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at the RTA's Public Transport Agency.

The 14-seater minibuses operate on flexible schedules and timings, and can be booked through the 'Dubai Bus on Demand' smart application.

Drivers can communicate directly with commuters via the app to identify their nearest point within the areas currently covered by the service - Al Barsha, Al Nahda, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Business Bay.

Dubai’s #RTA has expanded its 'Bus on Demand' service to Business Bay following a successful month-long trial, as per the planned roll-out of the initiative.
To read full news, visit https://t.co/d59n6xYb3x pic.twitter.com/jYBK0luDJi

— RTA (@rta_dubai) April 25, 2024

Before launching the service a few years ago, the RTA conducted a comprehensive field survey based on several criteria, including the demographics of potential users, vehicle ownership rates, mobility options, proximity to public transport stations and stops, and preferred mobility options.

Other considerations included comfort, punctuality, the on-demand nature of the service, accessibility to homes and mobility destinations, cost-effectiveness, and the environmental sustainability of the service.

The RTA also reviewed international practices in countries like Spain, Germany, the United States and Finland.