Avoid this mistake: Fines for using Dubai’s dedicated bus lanes, explained

Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has set aside certain areas and lanes exclusively for buses, taxis, and emergency vehicles. Violating these rules, whether by parking in bus zones or using dedicated bus lanes, can result in hefty fines.

Here’s what you need to know to avoid penalties and help keep Dubai’s public transport moving efficiently.

Fine for parking in areas reserved for buses

RTA urges drivers to avoid parking in areas designated for public buses. Parking in these areas can disrupt bus movement and attract fines of up to Dh200.

Fine for using bus lanes

Dubai roads feature special ‘bus only’ lanes, which are clearly marked with a red strip running down the middle and road markings indicating “Only bus.” Signs along the road also warn private vehicles against using these lanes.

These lanes are closely monitored by radars. Any private vehicle using a bus lane to bypass traffic or long lines will face a fine of Dh600.

Bus lanes are primarily reserved for buses and taxis, helping reduce travel time for public transport users. The RTA has implemented these lanes on routes with heavy traffic to encourage the use of mass transportation.

Apart from buses and taxis, emergency vehicles such as police cars, civil defence trucks, and ambulances are also permitted to use these lanes.

Dedicated bus lanes across Dubai

Currently, Dubai has dedicated bus lanes at the following locations:

1. Naif Street – 1 km

2. Al Ittihad Road – near Al Mamzar toll gate (500 m)

3. Al Mina Street – 1.7 km from Kuwait Street to Falcon Intersection

4. Al Mankhool Street – 1.8 km from Al Satwa Roundabout to Sheikh Rashid Street

5. Al Khaleej Street – 1.7 km from Creek Street to Al Musalla Street

6. Khalid Bin Al Waleed Street – 100 m from Al Mina Street Intersection to Street 16

7. Al Ghubaiba Street – 500 m from Al Mina Street Intersection to Street 12

The RTA plans to introduce six new dedicated bus and taxi lanes spanning 13 kilometres, bringing the total length of dedicated lanes to 20 kilometres.