New service cuts traffic jams around Dubai schools

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai launched an initiative called "School Transport Sharing" as an innovative service, which is considered one of the first experiences at the regional level.

This aims to reduce traffic congestion around schools, lower the cost of school transport for parents, and decrease students' travel time while improving service efficiency, according to Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development Department at the Public Transport Agency (RTA).

Shakri explained that the percentage of students currently using school transport in Dubai is 49%, while the RTA aims to increase it to 60% in the coming phase.

Shakri stated that the concept of the "School Transport Sharing" initiative is based on grouping students residing in the same residential areas or heading to nearby schools in one bus, instead of multiple buses. This will positively result in reducing daily travel time and lowering operational costs.

Shakri clarified that the service is implemented in partnership with two private sector companies, "Yango" and "Airbus Express." He also confirmed that the initiative aims to reduce school transport costs by 10 to 15% and decrease students' travel time by 30% in some areas compared to the traditional duration.

Shakri explained that the pilot phase of the service was launched to extend until the end of the current academic year, during which the experience will be evaluated, and its positives and challenges monitored, in preparation for deciding on gradual expansion, either by generalising it across Dubai or implementing it in specific areas according to demand levels.

Shakri indicated that pricing will vary according to distance and the number of students, adding that parents with more than one student will receive greater discounts, making the service an economical and attractive option compared to traditional school transport choices.