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

• 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

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

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

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

• 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