As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the public transport system in Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has added four new areas to its “On-Demand Bus” service. These areas include Al Qusais, Jumeirah Circular City, Al Warqa, and Dubai Investment Park. This expansion reflects the RTA’s commitment to developing flexible transport solutions that facilitate daily movement and support Dubai’s strategies for sustainable mobility.
Service Expansion
This new expansion of the “On-Demand Bus” service is part of the RTA’s strategy to enhance first and last-mile solutions. The authority aims to provide flexible transport options connecting residential areas with public transit stations. With this expansion, Dubai residents can now benefit from a service that covers 17 areas, featuring a fleet of 49 buses, clearly demonstrating the RTA’s response to population growth and increasing demand.
Increased Service Usage
The service recorded remarkable performance in 2025, with the number of passengers reaching 984,929 compared to 417,315 passengers in 2024, reflecting an increase of 136%. This growth can be attributed to the continuous improvement in service efficiency and reliability, making it a preferred choice for mobility among the emirate’s residents.
Innovative Operating Model
The “On-Demand Bus” service operates under an innovative model that allows for pre-booking via the smart app “Dubai Bus on Demand.” Users can easily specify their starting point and destination, ensuring quick arrivals. This service, which uses small buses operating based on actual demand, helps reduce waiting times and enhance operational efficiency.
Flexible Fare Structure and Promotional Offers
The RTA offers flexible and affordable fare structures, with a single trip costing 5 dirhams per passenger and 4 dirhams for each additional passenger. Users will also have the option to share rides to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. Additionally, promotional offers, including free rides for a limited period, have been launched to encourage the public to try the new service.
The upcoming phase will witness a measured expansion into new areas, reflecting the RTA’s commitment to developing the operational model and fare structure to achieve a balance between service quality and financial sustainability. These developments will make the “On-Demand Bus” a cornerstone of the smart transport system in Dubai.