Back-to-School rush: Thousands of school buses to hit UAE roads – plan ahead

The much-anticipated school reopening on Monday will see a surge of traffic as thousands of yellow school buses return to UAE roads, transporting students back to classrooms after the summer break.

Emirates Transport (ET), the country’s largest and oldest school transport provider, along with other major players such as Dubai Taxi Company and STS Group, collectively operate more than 10,000 school buses across the UAE. This annual back-to-school rush is expected to slow morning and afternoon commutes, especially around residential communities and school zones.

In a proactive move, local authorities, including the Ministry of Interior, police, RTA, and others, have put in place comprehensive traffic safety plans and launched campaigns and workshops for bus drivers.
To make the opening day and the week accident-free, motorists also bear equal responsibility. Drivers should plan their journeys in advance, start earlier than usual, and remain vigilant near schools to ensure the safety of students – not just on Monday, but throughout the year, as their safety must always remain a top priority.

Slow down in school zones: Adhere to posted speed limits, typically 30–40 km/h.

Watch for pedestrians: Every second counts. Expect children to cross roads, especially near drop-off and pick-up points.

Avoid distractions: Keep phones away and focus fully on the road.

Stay alert at bus stops: Maintain a safe distance from school buses, as children may step out unexpectedly.

Always stop for ‘STOP’ signs: When a school bus displays its stop sign, vehicles in both directions must stop until all students have safely crossed.

Ignoring school bus stop signs: Dh1,000 fine and 10 black points.

Speeding near schools: Fines range from Dh300 to Dh3,000, depending on severity.

Illegal parking near schools: Dh500 fine for obstructing traffic or parking in no-parking zones.

Distracted driving (using a phone): Dh800 fine and 4 black points.

Parents are urged to teach children safe road habits, such as using pedestrian crossings and waiting for a bus to come to a complete stop before boarding. With a million students excited for a fresh academic year, authorities are calling on all drivers to exercise extra patience and caution to keep UAE roads safe for everyone.