Mattar Al Tayer along with other RTA officials pose in front of a new Optare medium-size bus. WAM

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has launched the operation of 94 medium-size buses of the Optare Brand, which will be the first of its kind in the UAE.

These buses are compatible with the European Emission Standards, Euro 5, light in weight and low on fuel consumption.

"The delivery of the new batch of buses is part of the RTA’s masterplan to improve public transport in Dubai and keep pace with the top international standards. Our objective is to deliver best-in-class services to public transport commuters and match the sustained growth in the number of riders," Al Tayer said.

"The new buses will be deployed on 17 routes: eight existing routes and nine new routes highlighted by metro link buses routes, low-demand routes, and routes serving residential areas which do not require the operation of large buses. The new buses will serve new districts and widen the geographical coverage of public transport in Dubai, increase the occupancy rate, and enhance multi-modal integration," he added.

Al Tayer inspected the new Optare bus and attended a briefing about the technical specifications of the bus, which can accommodate 32-seated passengers and nine standees. Adjustable safety belts will be fitted on eight seats and one seat will be designated for "people of determination."

The bus has a semi-stainless-steel body, and the design of front wheels creates more room for passengers. The engines are characterised by low fuel consumption and low carbon emissions, which means fewer carbon footprints in line with the European standards.

It has a low-floor door for the entry of people of determination and deluxe interior finishing. It has white LED destination boards, internet service, Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports.

Attendees at the launch included Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency; Suwaidan Saeed Al Naboodah, Managing Director of Al Naboodah Enterprises, and several directors of the RTA and Optare Company.

WAM