Back to School: Dubai RTA urges bus operators to prioritise safety

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has urged all school bus operators in the emirate to be fully prepared for the start of the 2025-26 academic year on Monday, ensuring the highest standards of safety, comfort, and service for students across all age groups.

RTA underlined that it remains committed to streamlining the daily movement of Dubai’s school transport sector. The Authority stressed that bus operators and administrations must maintain the safety of students and provide a safe and comfortable environment on buses for them, as well as for supervisors and drivers alike.

Commitment to safety

Bus operators and school administrations must strictly comply with all health and safety requirements. Operators must equip buses with essential safety features and measures. Drivers must safeguard students throughout their daily trips by strictly adhering to safe driving practices.

Monitoring and inspections

Specialised RTA teams will conduct regular inspection campaigns for school buses to ensure compliance with school transportation laws and safety standards. RTA closely and continuously monitors the commitment of schools and operators to implementing the stipulated procedures and requirements.

Technology integration

Modern technologies will continue to be deployed to enhance safety and improve the overall experience on board school buses.

Driver, attendant training

Bus operators are required to provide intensive training programmes for drivers and attendants, ensuring professional and safe handling of students.

Student guidance

Students are advised to follow the instructions of bus attendants when boarding or alighting. Attendants are tasked with escorting students to the nearest point of their homes.

Traffic compliance
Drivers must strictly observe traffic regulations, particularly near schools, and avoid obstructing traffic flow to reduce congestion and ensure smooth traffic movement.

Parental reassurance

School transport operators are urged to maintain constant communication with parents to reassure them of their children’s safety during daily commutes.

RTA message to students

Following the summer break, RTA has encouraged students across Dubai to embrace the new school year with enthusiasm, resilience, and optimism. The Authority reiterated its commitment to making school transport services secure, comfortable, and reliable for every child.