Dubai RTA warns passengers: Don’t risk fines by standing here on buses

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has highlighted key safety guidelines for Dubai bus commuters, reminding passengers that their safety and comfort are top priorities on every journey.

A recent RTA social media post focused on the red‑marked areas near bus doors, which are strictly prohibited for standing.

“Standing in the red-marked area may put your safety at risk when the bus moves or stops suddenly and can make it harder for others to board and exit smoothly,” the post said.

Passengers are urged to respect this simple rule to prevent accidents and ensure efficient passenger movement.

According to the RTA website:

• Dh100 – Standing or sitting in non-passenger areas inside public transport vehicles or facilities

• Dh200 – Causing distraction or obstruction to the driver while the vehicle is in motion

Penalties for common violations

To raise awareness, RTA also highlighted the penalties for some of the most common violations on Dubai buses. These rules help ensure the city’s extensive bus network runs smoothly. Operated by the Public Transport Agency (PTA), the network includes 1,518 buses across 119 lines—covering metro feeder, intercity, and internal routes—serving approximately 369,248 passengers daily and spanning 82% of Dubai’s urban areas.

Fare violations

Dh200

• Using public transport or entering/exiting fare zones without paying

• Failing to present a valid nol card on request

• Using someone else’s card, an expired card, or an invalid card

• Selling nol cards without prior RTA permission

Dh500

Using a fake nol card

Compliance violations

Dh200

• Selling or promoting goods inside public transport or facilities

• Disobeying instructions from inspectors or authorised personnel

• Using transport contrary to posted instructions or signboards

Dh100

• Entering restricted areas or areas designated for specific categories

Dh100/day, up to DH1,000

• Parking in public transport zones beyond the permitted period

Behavioural violations

Dh2,000

• Damaging, vandalising, or destroying equipment

Dh100

• Causing disturbances to passengers

• Misusing lifts or escalators

• Standing or sitting in non-passenger areas

• Putting feet on seats

Health-related violations

• Dh200 – Spitting, littering, or compromising cleanliness; smoking inside transport or facilities

• Dh100 – Eating or drinking in prohibited areas

Safety violations

• Dh1,000 – Carrying hazardous items such as weapons, sharp tools, or flammable materials

• Dh500 – Carrying alcoholic beverages

• Dh100

1. Boarding by climbing or jumping

2. Opening doors or leaving the vehicle while moving

3. Bringing animals, except guide dogs

4. Using materials that may endanger others

• Dh2,000 – Misusing safety or security devices, including emergency exits

• Dh300 – Sleeping in prohibited areas such as passenger shelters

• Dh200 – Distracting or obstructing the driver while the vehicle is in motion

Dubai bus etiquette every passenger should know

RTA has issued guidelines to promote safe and courteous behaviour on buses. Key points include:

Accessibility and commuter convenience

• Informative displays: Live updates on screens at bus stops

• Platform alerts: Audible beeps and flashing lights signal door movements

• Tactile guidance paths: For passengers with visual difficulties

• Wheelchair access: Dedicated spaces on all buses

Bus etiquette

• Stay clear of bus stopping areas until doors open

• Board through the front and alight from the rear; ladies and children may exit from the front

• Avoid distracting the driver

• Respect fellow passengers by not playing loud music or soliciting favours

• Press the stop bell only at authorised stops and wait for the bus to stop completely

Luggage policy

• Bulky items, hazardous materials, obnoxious items, and animals are not allowed

• Luggage must not block gangways

 Unaccompanied minors policy

• Below 8 years: Not allowed to use public transport without an adult

• 8–11 years: Travel allowed with a parental permit (except inter-city buses)

• 12 years and above: Permitted to travel alone

By following these rules and respecting fines, passengers help ensure a safer, smoother, and more efficient journey for everyone.