The RTA has awarded a contract to purchase 636 buses of various sizes that meet the European “Euro 6” low carbon emissions standards, valued at AED 1.1 billion. These buses will be delivered in 2024 and 2025.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, stated that purchasing the new buses is part of a comprehensive strategic plan designed to enhance the public transport system in Dubai, following the best global practices.
Al Tayer added that the contract aims to provide the best services to public transport users and to keep up with the continuous growth in the number of public transport bus users.
He emphasized the RTA’s commitment to making public transport the preferred choice for residents, aiming to increase the percentage of trips using public and shared transport to 25% by 2030. This will be achieved by offering high-quality public transport alternatives with comprehensive geographical coverage and ensuring integration between all public transport means.
The contract includes the purchase of 40 electric buses of the Zhongtong brand, with Gulf specifications that have been tested in the region. It also includes 450 city service buses, of which 400 are MAN brand and 50 are Zhongtong brand, featuring high safety, comfort, and quality standards. These buses are equipped with the eco-friendly Euro 6 engine and classified under the United Nations Class II vehicle category, providing flexibility for operation on urban and long-distance inter-urban routes.
Additionally, the contract includes the purchase of 76 double-decker buses from the Volvo brand and 70 articulated buses from the Isuzu Anadolu brand. These buses are intended to serve high-density urban areas and new areas, offering greater geographical coverage in Dubai and increasing occupancy rates.