Dubai stands as a global leader in providing accessible transportation for people of determination, supported by a robust infrastructure, smart solutions, and comprehensive services that cater to diverse needs, ensuring seamless mobility. This approach reflects a steadfast commitment to promoting inclusivity and empowering individuals with disabilities to participate actively and independently within society. To this end, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has created an all-encompassing service environment comprising 152 fully-equipped facilities, benefiting over 163,000 users of public transport across the emirate. This success underscores the efforts to elevate inclusivity and enhance quality of life.
According to Abdul Rahman Al Janahi, Director of Facilities and Assets Management at RTA’s Corporate Administrative Support Sector, “All of RTA’s buildings and facilities are comprehensively equipped to provide an integrated service environment for people of determination, taking their various needs into account.” He elaborated that public transport in the emirate has seen significant growth, with over 110,000 users of the Dubai Metro and tram services, more than 49,000 users of public buses, and over 4,000 users of marine transport. This growth is a direct indicator of the success of Dubai’s strategy to reinforce accessibility in transportation.
Al Janahi noted that RTA incorporates universal design standards in its projects and facilities, ensuring ease of access and use for all. “The needs of people of determination are integrated into comprehensive transport plans, which are continuously updated based on global best practices, ensuring a safe and sustainable transport environment that meets the demands of diverse community members,” he added. Furthermore, RTA is actively upgrading road facilities, public squares, crossings, sidewalks, ramps, parking, elevators, signage, safety elements, and smart traffic signals to enhance the mobility and accessibility of individuals with disabilities.
To further improve the user experience, RTA has launched several innovative initiatives, including the “Sensory Room,” designed to provide a supportive environment for children with autism, thereby facilitating a more comfortable and smooth travel experience. This initiative aligns with RTA’s commitment to delivering innovative services that address the varied needs of users and promote the inclusion of people of determination in society.
Al Janahi emphasized RTA’s commitment to measuring the satisfaction and happiness of stakeholders associated with people of determination. This includes happiness indicators for customers, employees, and their families, allowing for ongoing evaluation and enhancement of service delivery based on beneficiary feedback. The authority provides a range of exemptions and facilitations specifically for individuals with disabilities, including a full exemption from Salik toll fees and registration and renewal fees for vehicles, as well as free public transport travel via the “Nol” card for three years. Additionally, a 50% discount is offered on driver licensing services and taxi fares in Dubai.
Regarding parking allocated for individuals with disabilities, Al Janahi disclosed that the RTA issued approximately 9,401 permits for these parking spaces in 2025, supported by regular monitoring campaigns to ensure they are used appropriately. Violations are addressed with necessary actions against offenders. He also mentioned the expansion of smart solutions to facilitate access to services via the website, the ART DUBAI app “Suhail,” and the chatbot “Mahboub,” along with self-service machines designed with suitable heights and spaces for wheelchair users.
The self-service machines are equipped with supportive features for visually impaired individuals, including Braille instructions on buttons, audio guidance, and specialized headsets to assist with transactions, ensuring a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience. Through these collaborative efforts, Dubai is cementing its reputation as a pioneer in accessible transport solutions for people of determination, with its focus on innovation, inclusivity, and quality service.