As families in Dubai gear up for the 2026-27 academic year, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is rolling out significant enhancements to school commute options and safety protocols. To ensure a smooth transition, the RTA has mandated that all bus operators perform rigorous maintenance checks and verify the credentials of drivers and attendants before the new term kicks off. This will be bolstered by a month-long intensive inspection campaign across the city to guarantee that every vehicle and staff member meets strict safety regulations, with a continued emphasis on the mandatory use of seat belts across all transport services.

Beyond traditional busing, Dubai is diversifying its mobility landscape by integrating modern e-hail solutions like Careem, Uber, and BOLT to offer families more flexible and safety-vetted alternatives. Additionally, a new ride-pooling pilot in Al Barsha is set to provide convenient shared transport, while students holding an nol card can take advantage of a 50 per cent discount on public transit. To manage the anticipated surge in traffic, the RTA is also boosting the frequency of over 30 bus routes and increasing taxi availability near major school zones, ensuring that the morning and afternoon commute is safer and more efficient for everyone involved.