Dubai Unveils Innovative School Transport Pilot With Pooled SUVs

Dubai is piloting a revolutionary school transport system that replaces traditional yellow buses with tech-enabled, pooled SUVs. Launched by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in mid-January 2026, the initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion around schools, improve commute times, and offer families a flexible, modern alternative.

Why the Change? Tackling Congestion and Inefficiency

With only about half of Dubai's students using organized school transport, private car drop-offs significantly contribute to peak-hour traffic jams around schools. The new pooled model groups students from multiple schools traveling in similar directions into shared SUVs, reducing the total number of vehicles on the road and improving efficiency.

Eligibility and Pilot Scope

The initial phase targets students aged 14 and above from selected private schools in high-traffic areas, including:

• Bloom Academy
• Brighton College
• GEMS Founders School
• Dubai American Academy
• American School of Dubai

Focusing on older students allows for safer, more predictable shared rides without additional attendants. The goal is to keep commute times under one hour.

Cost Structure and Parental Benefits

Parents will pay a monthly subscription fee, with a special pilot rate around AED 1,000. This model is designed to be more affordable than private car commutes and potentially cheaper than traditional bus contracts. Discounts for siblings may be introduced later.

Safety and Technology: A Top Priority

The service integrates advanced features for security and convenience:

• Real-time vehicle tracking for parents.
• Digital route management for optimized, efficient trips.
• RTA-certified drivers and vehicles meeting strict safety standards.

All existing school transport safety regulations apply to this new service.

Also Read: Gold Prices in Dubai Ease After Record Rally, Offering Brief Respite

Pilot Evaluation and Future Vision

The pilot will run through Q1 2026, with the RTA and partners (Yango Group & Urban Express Transport) gathering feedback from families and schools. Success could lead to expansion to younger students and more neighborhoods.

This initiative is a key part of Dubai's smart mobility and sustainability goals, aiming to create a modern, efficient transport ecosystem that eases urban congestion. If successful, pooled SUVs could become a permanent, scalable solution for school commutes across the emirate.