Daijiworld Media Network- Dubai

Dubai, Sep 10: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with the Department of Economy and Tourism, has introduced a new Executive Regulation to overhaul Dubai’s tourist transport system, aiming to raise service standards and reinforce the emirate’s position as a top global tourism destination.

The regulation, enacted under Administrative Decision No. 97 of 2025 following Executive Council Resolution No. 107 of 2023, establishes a structured framework for tourist transport operators. Key responsibilities assigned to the RTA include:

• Issuing and renewing permits for tourist transport companies

• Registering and renewing tourist vehicles

• Granting professional licences for tourist transport drivers

All processes will be handled through RTA-authorised channels, ensuring streamlined applications and strict regulatory compliance. Operators are required to fully adhere to the new rules, which align with international best practices.

Objectives and Benefits:

The regulation is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to develop a high-quality, safe, and efficient tourist transport network, with key goals including:

• Enhancing service quality and customer experience

• Strengthening safety and comfort standards

• Aligning operations with global benchmarks

• Supporting Dubai’s vision as a leading tourism and mobility hub

The new framework also promises a more structured environment for transport companies, encouraging higher standards and professional accountability.

Public Transport Growth:

Dubai’s public transport usage continues to rise, with 395.3 million rides in H1 2025, marking a 9% increase over 2024. Ridership breakdown for the first half of 2025:

• Dubai Metro: 36.5%

• Taxis: 26%

• Public Buses: 24%

The ongoing Metro Blue Line extension will connect 1 million residents across 14 stations, further integrating the city’s transport infrastructure and complementing the new tourist transport regulation.

Tourism Performance:

Dubai’s tourism continues to surge, with 9.88 million international overnight visitors in just the first six months of 2025, surpassing the total for 2024. Key indicators include:

• Hotel occupancy rate: 80.6%

• Average daily rate: up 5%

• Revenue per available room: up 7%

• Dubai International Airport passenger traffic: 46 million

These trends underscore the importance of a regulated, high-standard tourist transport system to handle growing visitor numbers while ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality experiences for tourists.