Latest news with #Roads&TransportAuthority
CairoScene
18-06-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Dubai SME Facilitates Dhs 1.29 Billion in Contracts in 2024
Dubai SME Facilitates Dhs 1.29 Billion in Contracts in 2024 More than 970 Emirati businesses are currently registered with the programme, reflecting growing private-sector participation and confidence in local SMEs. Dubai SME, a division of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, reported that its Emirati Supplier Programme secured Dhs 1.29 billion in contracts for Emirati SMEs during 2024. The figure underscores the government's ongoing efforts to empower local firms and aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the emirate's economy by 2033, and supports the UAE's Year of Community. In 2024, government entities such as the Roads & Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, and Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism awarded Dhs 652.8 million worth of contracts to Dubai SME members. Semi-government bodies – notably Emirates Group, Emirates Flight Catering, and Dubai Holding – contributed Dhs 347.7 million, while federal agencies including Emirates Health Services, the Ministry of Education, and MoHRE provided Dhs 94.6 million. The private sector, led by Union Coop, Carrefour, and Emaar, added Dhs 198.9 million. Since its launch in 2002, the programme has disbursed over Dhs 12 billion in contracts, mandating that government-related entities allocate at least 10% of their procurement to Emirati-owned businesses. By embedding national firms into both public and private sector supply chains, the initiative directly supports D33's goals of diversification, SME growth, and increased non-oil GDP contribution. Acting CEO Ahmad Al Room Almheiri highlights that more than 970 Emirati businesses are currently registered with the programme, reflecting growing private-sector participation and confidence in local SMEs. He adds that professional service and technical supplies were the top-performing sectors, with services accounting for 52% of contracts and commerce 45%. By offering procurement opportunities and tailored support like mentorship, training, and financing, the Emirati Supplier Programme bolsters Dubai's SME ecosystem and positions Emirati companies to compete on a global scale—reinforcing Dubai's role as a model for entrepreneurial empowerment and accelerated growth.
Arabian Post
13-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Dubai's Blue Line Metro to Debut on 9 September 2029
Dubai's Roads & Transport Authority has confirmed the Blue Line of the Metro will begin operations on 9 September 2029, coinciding deliberately with the 20th anniversary of the Red Line's inauguration on 9 September 2009, signalling a significant milestone in the city's transport evolution. The 30 km line will feature 14 stations, linking residential and commercial hubs such as Al Jaddaf, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai Academic City, and is projected to serve nearly one million people by 2040. Incorporating 15.5 km of underground track and 14.5 km elevated, it will integrate both existing Red and Green Lines through interchanges at Centrepoint and Creek stations. International City 1 will serve as a crucial Y‑junction interchange. Construction is underway following Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's foundation‑stone ceremony on 9 June 2025, where he approved a visionary design for the flagship Emaar Properties Station in Dubai Creek Harbour. The station, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, will be the tallest metro station globally at 74 metres and accommodate up to 160,000 passengers daily, rising to over 70,000 by 2040. ADVERTISEMENT Engineered for efficiency, the Blue Line will include a 1.3 km viaduct over Dubai Creek—the first metro bridge of its kind in the emirate. Travel time along key stretches will range from 10 to 25 minutes, significantly reducing travel duration across connected zones. From a passenger operations standpoint, the system is designed to move around 46,000 people per hour in both directions, with a projected daily ridership of 200,000 by 2030, increasing to 320,000 by 2040. By then, the total Dubai Metro network—comprising existing lines, the new Blue Line, and the Route 2020 extension—will cover about 131 km with 78 stations and 168 trains. Economically, the Blue Line represents a Dh20.5 billion investment, undertaken by a consortium of MAPA, LIMAK and CRRC, selected through international tender. It aligns with Dubai's Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to deliver sustainable, transit‑oriented growth within a 20‑minute urban framework. The line's stations meet platinum‑grade green building standards, underscoring Dubai's commitment to eco‑friendly infrastructure. The RTA forecasts that the Red, Green and Blue lines combined could produce economic and environmental benefits exceeding Dh56.5 billion by 2040 through fuel savings, reduced accidents, and lower carbon emissions. For commuters, the impact will be immediate: daily traffic on major corridors served by the Blue Line is expected to decrease by approximately 20%. Moreover, real estate values within station catchments could climb by up to 25%. Local residents, including students and workers, will benefit from faster commutes and better connectivity, particularly in academic and industrial zones. The new Emaar Properties Station itself is set to carry naming rights held by Emaar for at least ten years, with further station sponsorships anticipated. Its shell‑inspired exterior and use of premium materials—such as Jura limestone, bronze paneling, granite flooring and glass ceilings—reflect a commitment to aesthetic excellence and place‑based identity. During the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed emphasised the Blue Line's role in enhancing community integration and positioning Dubai as a leading global city. He noted that the line would 'empower communities, enhancing connectivity and supporting sustainable urban growth'. The route serves nine districts—Mirdif, Al Warqa, International City phases, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, Dubai Creek Harbour, Festival City—and links directly with Dubai International Airport for seamless airport‑to‑destination transfers. As construction progresses, RTA officials have called for greater attention to commuter needs during the build‑phase, including adequate parking and reduced road disruptions. Feedback from future daily users—students, residents, workers—underlined anticipation for improved access and decreased dependence on private cars.
What's On
04-06-2025
- Business
- What's On
Salik tolls during Eid Al Adha 2025: Here's what Dubai drivers need to know…
Driving around this Eid? Here's how much you'll be charged at Salik gates (and when you can cruise for free)… Planning a road trip or just zipping across town for your Eid Al Adha feast? Don't get caught off guard! Salik tolls in Dubai will still be doing its thing over the long Eid Al Adha weekend… but with a few tweaks. Let's break it down so you're not left guessing. Are Salik gates free in Dubai during Eid Al Adha? This Eid Al Adha, the Salik toll dynamic pricing system is still in effect. That means the amount you pay depends on what time you hit the road. Here's what your Salik tag will be up to during June 5 to June 8: Peak hours (6am–10am and 4pm–8pm): Dhs6 Everyone's on the move – expect the usual Dhs6 charge. Off-peak hours (10am to 4pm and 8pm to 1am): Dhs4 A bit quieter on the roads and a bit lighter on your wallet. Late night (1am to 6am): Free! Night owls, rejoice as the tolls take a nap while you cruise. PS. If you are wondering about parking in Dubai, the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) officially announced changes to parking and public transportation (including the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses, and other transportation systems) during Eid Al Adha 2025. You can read all about it here. Looking out for things to do in Dubai this Eid Al Adha, here are our top suggestions. Heading to Sharjah this Eid Al Adha weekend? Free parking in Sharjah this Eid weekend? Yes… but, there's a catch… Whether you're visiting family, grabbing a bite, or just enjoying a drive — here's some good news: you can enjoy free parking across the city from Friday, June 6, to Sunday, June 8… but this exception doesn't cover the seven-day paid parking zones marked with blue signs. Meaning they're active all weekend. So save yourself the fine and pay up. Have a great Eid, everyone. Images: RTA > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Mid East Info
30-04-2025
- Automotive
- Mid East Info
Driving the Smart Mobility Revolution: How OMODA & JAECOO Is Powering the UAE's Automotive Future?
By Alaa Shata, Regional Brand Manager Dubai, UAE, April 2025: The UAE is rapidly accelerating toward a future where smart mobility is no longer a vision, but a vital national priority. As part of its Net Zero 2050 Strategy, the country is investing in low-emission transport systems, intelligent infrastructure, and next-generation technologies that promise to reshape the region's urban landscape. Also, Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has announced plans to transit 100% of its public transport to zero-emission vehicles by 2050—a clear indicator of how seriously it is addressing sustainability through mobility reform. Yet this transformation is not driven by policy alone. The UAE is home to one of the world's most digitally connected populations, consumers here demand expect intelligent, connected, and sustainable mobility experiences. And brands that can meet this demand are finding fertile ground for growth. This is precisely where OMODA & JAECOO have entered the scene—not simply as new players in the automotive market, but as strategic contributors to the UAE's smart mobility ecosystem. Earlier this year, OMODA & JAECOO officially launched in the UAE with three flagship models designed for a new generation of drivers: the intelligent and tech-forward OMODA C5, the versatile JAECOO J7, and the premium off-road-capable JAECOO J8. These vehicles bring together artificial intelligence, advanced driver assistance systems, and a design language tailored to digital lifestyles. With features like AI-powered cockpits, adaptive driving modes, and elevated in-cabin connectivity, they represent a clear shift toward more experiential, future-focused driving. But the brands' commitment extends far beyond their vehicles. Through a strategic partnership with global logistics leader Maersk, OMODA & JAECOO have established a 12,000-square-meter regional spare parts distribution hub in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)—the largest of its kind in the Middle East for a Chinese automotive brand. This facility ensures 100% spare parts availability and delivery within 24 to 48 hours, setting new benchmarks for aftersales support and operational readiness in the region. Their UAE strategy is underpinned by a strong local presence through partnerships with AutoRun (Dubai), MAHY Khoory Automotive (Abu Dhabi), and Galadari Automobiles (Northern Emirates)—ensuring nationwide access, support, and customer engagement. Last but not least, OMODA & JAECOO is not simply introducing cars—they're delivering an ecosystem of intelligent mobility built on innovation, service, and user-centric design. Their approach reflects a broader global shift: where success in the automotive industry is no longer defined solely by horsepower or pricing, but by how well a brand integrates with people's lives, values, and aspirations. As the UAE continues its journey toward becoming a global hub for smart and sustainable transport, OMODA & JAECOO aligns with national goals, anticipates user needs, and invests in long-term infrastructure. This will definitely play a central role in shaping the future of mobility across the region.
What's On
06-03-2025
- Automotive
- What's On
Uber School launches in Dubai in collaboration with RTA
For the safest trips to school for your little ones… Uber School has now launched in Dubai, in collaboration with Dubai's Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), and it makes the kids' trip to school safer, more convenient and more affordable, all in one. The app will allow busy parents to have peace of mind when sending their children on their way to school. Your child, if they're over the age of eight, can use Uber School for their commute to school. The option is embedded in the Uber Teens accounts, and this new product simplifies daily commutes by offering affordable rides with parental supervision and key safety features embedded into the service, making it easier for families to manage their busy schedules. Uber School trips are available exclusively between 6am and 6pm, outside of regular school hours, to let students attend their extra-curricular activities too if they need to. The new service comes with an offer of up to 35 per cent off, so parents can save on each trip. Uber School also allows parents to monitor rides every step of the way, with real-time trip tracking. Parents will also receive the driver's name and vehicle details, knowing who exactly is behind the wheel and where they are. You can set up PIN verification and audio recording is available for trips too. Uber School is a branch of Uber Teens, which launched in the UAE last year. With Uber Teens, parents or guardians can invite their teen (ages 13 to 17) to create a specialised Uber account that enables the rider to request their own rides – all under parental supervision. > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
