In a significant step towards enhancing sustainable public transportation, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed landmark agreements to acquire 637 new buses, including 40 electric vehicles — the UAE’s largest and first-of-its-kind electric bus order.
The deal, announced on Thursday, marks a major investment in Dubai’s mass transit infrastructure, reinforcing the city’s commitment to eco-friendly mobility solutions. All buses in the new fleet comply with the European ‘Euro 6’ low-emission standards, making them among the most environmentally efficient buses available globally.
Deliveries are scheduled across 2025 and 2026.
The agreements were signed with senior representatives from leading international manufacturers, including Volvo Buses, MAN, Zhongtong Bus, and Anadolu Isuzu. These firms are recognized globally for producing high-performance and durable public transport vehicles.
Speaking at the signing event, RTA Director-General and Chairman Mattar Al Tayer highlighted the strategic importance of the procurement.
“This initiative aligns with Dubai’s efforts to expand and modernize its public transport network while supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative. The introduction of electric buses represents a major milestone in our journey toward carbon-neutral public mobility,” he said.
The 40 electric buses will be the first of their kind to be deployed on such a scale in the UAE. Designed for high efficiency and zero emissions, they will contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of the public transport system and are expected to significantly cut fuel and maintenance costs in the long term.
In addition to the procurement agreements, the RTA also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD.
Under the MoU, Dubai will pilot an electric bus equipped with the latest battery technologies and systems developed by BYD. The pilot will run through the peak summer months, testing the bus’s performance under Dubai’s extreme weather conditions.
“This partnership with BYD allows us to evaluate advanced battery technology in real-world conditions and determine how it can be integrated into our operations,” added Al Tayer.
Dubai has been internationally recognized for its world-class public transport services, which include an advanced metro system, modern trams, efficient buses, and marine transit options. The city continues to invest in intelligent transport systems and infrastructure that align with global sustainability goals.
Transport experts have hailed the new acquisition as a forward-thinking initiative. “Introducing Euro 6 and electric buses will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and elevate passenger comfort and safety,” said Khaled Ahmad, a UAE-based transport analyst.
With Dubai aiming to increase the share of public transport in total mobility to 30% by 2030, the expansion of its bus fleet is seen as a crucial step in accommodating a growing population and visitor base while reducing traffic congestion and pollution.
As Dubai moves forward with its ambitious plans, residents and visitors can expect cleaner, smarter, and more efficient journeys across the city in the near future.