RTA Launches App-Based Bus Pooling Initiative

Photo: Dubai Govrnment Media Office

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a new Bus Pooling initiative, allowing passengers to share minibus rides through a smart app-based booking system. This innovative service aims to provide both residents and visitors with a fast, convenient, and modern transportation solution. The project is being implemented in collaboration with three specialized public transport companies, both local and international.

The initiative underscores RTA’s commitment to enhancing and expanding Dubai’s public transportation network to meet the needs of its residents and visitors. It is expected that the service will gradually expand to cover additional routes and areas, working towards a sustainable and efficient transportation system across the city.

Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency, stated: “This initiative aims to attract new community segments by offering a quick and convenient transportation option that reduces reliance on private vehicles. It will also help ease traffic congestion on the city's roads.”

Unlike traditional public buses with fixed routes, the service operates on demand. Initially, it will serve areas in Deira, connecting to key business districts like Business Bay, Dubai Mall, Mirdif, and Dubai Festival City. The plan is to eventually extend the service throughout the emirate.

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RTA has partnered with three specialized companies to provide this service, which uses minibuses with dynamic, competitive fares. The service will cater to various areas in Dubai, offering flexible routes that meet passenger needs. Passengers will also have the option to book single trips or opt for weekly and monthly subscriptions.

“These minibuses will operate on demand, with bookings made via three smart apps: Citylink Shuttle, DrivenBus, and Fluxx Daily, each managed by one of the three companies, with 20 minibuses assigned to each app,” Bahrozyan added.

The minibuses have seating capacities ranging from 13 to 30 passengers. Fares will be variable, depending on the distance traveled and demand for the service.

Bahrozyan continued: “This initiative aims to provide licensed transport options, encouraging passengers to use authorized services rather than unlicensed alternatives. It aligns with RTA’s strategic goals of fostering integration, innovation, and sustainability in transportation. This project also keeps pace with global trends in public transport by leveraging advanced technologies to provide cost-effective, on-demand services, ultimately helping reduce traffic congestion with efficient, safe, and comfortable transport options.”

“This initiative is one of the latest innovations in public transport, offering a flexible and user-friendly solution for passengers. Commuters can pre-book seats through smart apps and enjoy flexible journeys with predefined schedules,” he concluded.