Dubai’s RTA implements 63 humanitarian initiatives to support 29 million lives in 2024

Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched 63 humanitarian initiatives last year to benefit more than 29 million individuals at both local and global levels.

These initiatives included supporting orphans, underprivileged families, and people of determination within the UAE, alongside rapid humanitarian aid during international crises.

Abdullah Al Ali, CEO of the Corporate Administrative Support Services Sector at RTA, highlighted the authority’s dedication to fostering social solidarity and upholding humanitarian values through its corporate social responsibility programmes.

“By collaborating with various entities and organisations, we strive to extend support to those in need, aligning with the UAE leadership’s vision of promoting cooperation and sustainable giving.”

These efforts align with the UAE’s ‘Year of the Community’ initiative for 2025, announced by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

RTA participated in the ‘Mother’s Endowment’ campaign, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This initiative benefited about 29 million people.

Relief assistance

During last year’s flooding, RTA launched a meal distribution initiative across metro stations providing support to 3,300 people. The authority played an active role in several global relief efforts, including the ‘UAE with you, Lebanon’ campaign, collaborating with the Emirates Red Crescent to provide critical aid. RTA participated in the ‘Water Relief’ initiative and supported the Dubai International Holy Quran Award by facilitating transportation for participants.

During Ramadan, the ‘Bringing Loved Ones Closer’ initiative in partnership with Keolis-MHI, offered free communication services at metro stations to help individuals stay connected with their families. The ‘A Means for Good’ initiative provided assistance to 8,000 individuals, including bus and truck drivers, labourers, and abra riders. RTA distributed ration packages to 2,540 low-income families,and collaborated with the Beit Al Khair Society to provide iftar meals for 60,000 people.

Children, seniors

RTA’s charitable contributions extended to children and senior citizens. The Eid Clothing Initiative, in collaboration with the Rashid Centre for People of Determination and the Emirates Red Crescent, gave new clothes for children. Special recreational outings for children battling cancer, in partnership with the Social Hub Foundation and the Emirates Red Crescent, included visits to Roxy Cinemas and the Green Planet. For senior citizens, a special trip was organised to celebrate Eid Al Adha.

Culture, knowledge

As part of UAE Reading Month, educational sessions were held for its employees and their families, benefiting 5,000 individuals. The authority supported the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, providing transportation for festival guests. It marked national and global humanitarian occasions, including the Eid Al Etihad celebrations, National Flag Day, and International Day for Older Persons, with several activities.

People of determination

RTA supported the Noor Race, benefiting 4,000 participants, and provided financial backing for summer activities at the Dubai Club for People of Determination benefitting 200 people. It helped Emirati champion Seham Al Rashidi, who has secured 600 local and international medals. Through initiatives like educational workshops in Sign Language and Culinary Arts, RTA continues to foster skill development and inclusion.