Dubai, UAE – Several educational institutions across Dubai are introducing and encouraging carpooling initiatives as a community-driven solution to rising traffic congestion around school zones. The initiative, aimed at reducing road pressure during peak hours, also promotes environmental sustainability and strengthens parent communities.
In light of increasing concerns over traffic snarls during morning and afternoon school runs, schools such as Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills and Dubai International Academy Al Barsha have begun actively promoting informal, parent-led carpool arrangements.
While commercial ride-sharing services remain prohibited under UAE law, non-commercial arrangements — where parents take turns transporting children — are both legal and encouraged.
Hitesh Bhagat, principal of Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills, said the initiative is designed to connect parents in nearby areas for practical ride-sharing solutions. “By participating in the carpooling initiative, we can significantly reduce traffic congestion and contribute to a more sustainable environment,” he said.
“Carpooling can significantly reduce congestion, making the daily school run much smoother and less stressful. It’s a sustainable approach that not only helps our environment by lowering carbon emissions but also brings parents in nearby localities closer together,” Bhagat added.
At Dubai International Academy Al Barsha, while a formal policy is not in place, the school encourages carpooling, especially during the summer months when traffic tends to spike.
“During the summer, we encourage staff and families to consider carpooling to reduce traffic and contribute to sustainability. In cooler months, we encourage cycling and walking where possible,” said principal Ian Thurston.
Schools also play a supportive role in facilitating carpool connections. Though privacy policies prevent them from sharing contact details without consent, they often assist interested parents in linking up with others in their vicinity.
“We help parents who express interest in carpooling by helping them connect with others,” Thurston explained. “Staff carpooling tends to be easier. Many staff members already carpool regularly, and existing relationships make it easier to coordinate schedules and logistics.”
He added, “Even if one car is taken off the road, it will have a sustainable impact.”
Other institutions, like Regent Gulf Indian High School, are drafting official carpool guidelines to ensure student safety. “We promote safe and sustainable transport options, encouraging parent-led carpooling among our students, subject to following all the guidelines given by RTA,” said Dr S. Reshma, the school’s principal-director.
She noted that while formal policies are being developed, guidelines are already in place to ensure safety and accountability, both for student and staff carpooling.
For many parents, the initiative has already made a significant difference. Arijit Nandi, a resident of Springs, shared how his family has benefited: “The two moms take turns every week. On the weeks she isn’t driving, my wife uses that time to hit the gym or get a head start on work. It’s worked out so well for both families.”
Palestinian expatriate Fadia Alam echoed similar sentiments. “We teamed up with a family friend. She drives one day, I drive the next. It saves us fuel, time, and the kids get a little extra sleep — it’s a win for everyone.”
As traffic continues to challenge school communities, these carpooling initiatives offer a practical, eco-conscious, and socially enriching path forward.