Dubai expands 'Bus On Demand' service to three new areas
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has expanded its "Bus On Demand" service to three new areas: Al Satwa, Al Quoz, and Mirdif.
- The service, now available in 20 areas, transported 527,000 passengers in the first half of 2026, a 25.1% increase from the same period in 2025.
- RTA aims to enhance flexible transport options, linking residential areas with public transport stations and improving the user experience through smart applications and multiple payment methods.
Dubai's "Bus On Demand" service has expanded its reach, now serving residents and visitors in Al Satwa, Al Quoz, and Mirdif. This addition brings the total number of areas covered by the flexible public transport option to 20, enhancing mobility across the emirate.
The service has seen a significant surge in demand, particularly during the first half of 2026. It successfully transported 527,000 passengers, marking a 25.1% growth compared to the same period in the previous year. June 2026 was a standout month, recording the highest passenger numbers since the start of the year with 105,990 individuals utilizing the service.
This increasing demand underscores public confidence in the service's ease of use. The RTA has responded by expanding operational areas by 54% and increasing the fleet to 55 buses to accommodate the growing ridership. This expansion aligns with the RTA's strategy to provide flexible transport solutions that connect residential neighborhoods with public transport hubs, supporting Dubai's vision for easy and sustainable transit.
Users can access the "Bus On Demand" service through a dedicated smart application. The RTA has streamlined the process, requiring users to download the app, register, and input necessary data to activate the service. Multiple payment options are available, including credit cards, debit cards, and the popular NOL card, ensuring convenient transactions for all passengers. The RTA continues to refine the service, aiming to build a smart, comfortable, and sustainable public transport system for Dubai.
We continue to develop the service and improve the passenger journey, in a way that supports Dubai's vision in building a smart, comfortable, and sustainable public transport system.
Originally published by Gulf Today in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.