Dubai’s RTA introduces app-based minibus pooling service

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a new bus pooling initiative, offering residents and visitors a more convenient and efficient public transport option.

The service allows passengers to share minibus rides through a dynamic booking system on smart apps, marking a significant step in the city’s drive to modernise its public transportation infrastructure.

The initiative, developed in collaboration with three local and international public transport companies, will initially operate in Deira, linking key areas such as Business Bay, Dubai Mall, Mirdif, and Dubai Festival City.

RTA has indicated that the service is set to expand across the emirate in the future, further broadening its reach.

Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency, emphasised the initiative’s role in reducing reliance on private vehicles, saying: “This initiative aims to attract new segments of the community by offering a fast and convenient transport option that, in many cases, eliminates reliance on private vehicles. It will also practically contribute to making traffic smoother on the city’s roads.”

Minibus service accessible through three apps

The new bus pooling service differs from traditional public buses by operating without fixed routes. Instead, passengers can use the service on demand via three smart apps – Citylink Shuttle, DrivenBus, and Fluxx Daily.

Each of the three partner companies will manage 20 minibuses, offering passengers flexible transport options based on their needs.

The minibuses, with seating capacities ranging from 13 to 30 passengers, will feature dynamic fares that vary depending on the distance travelled and demand for the service.

Commuters can opt for one-time rides or choose from weekly and monthly subscription plans.

Bahrozyan explained the broader strategic vision behind the initiative: “This initiative aims to provide licensed transport options for passengers, encouraging them to use authorized means of transport instead of unlicensed alternatives. It also aligns with RTA’s strategic goals of achieving integration, fostering innovative mobility, and anticipating the future of sustainable transportation.”

He also highlighted the importance of embracing technological advancements, noting that the service’s on-demand nature helps keep pace with global trends in public transport.

“This project is in line with RTA’s objectives of offering cost-effective, on-demand services that can reduce traffic congestion while providing an efficient, safe, fast, and comfortable solution for commuters,” he added.

The service is part of RTA’s broader efforts to improve the efficiency and sustainability of Dubai’s transport network, combining traditional public transport services with innovative, tech-driven solutions.

In other news, RTA, in collaboration with TruKKer — the digital freight platform — launched  Logisty, a digital logistics platform in partnership with the private sector.

The platform aims to provide commercial transport services to customers and businesses, manage logistics & commercial vehicle fleets, and offer on-demand booking and tracking services.