The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has played a pivotal role in reshaping Dubai’s transportation network over the past two decades. Established on November 1, 2005, the RTA was tasked with enhancing the public transport system and improving road infrastructure to facilitate smoother, safer travel across the city and beyond. Today, Dubai’s rapid growth has made the RTA’s work even more critical, as the city continues to expand and attract millions of residents, workers, and tourists.
Key Milestones in RTA’s 20-Year Journey
Establishment and Early Developments (2005-2009)
In its early years, the RTA focused on improving basic transportation services. One of the authority’s first milestones came in 2007 with the introduction of articulated buses, designed to increase passenger capacity and enhance the efficiency of public transport. In the same year, Salik, Dubai’s toll gate system, was launched, initially at Al Garhoud Bridge and Al Barsha, streamlining traffic flow across the city. That same year, the RTA introduced Pink Taxis, a service specifically designed for women, providing a private and secure transport option.
In 2009, Dubai saw two groundbreaking additions to its transport network. The Palm Jumeirah Monorail began operating, connecting the iconic island to the mainland, while the Dubai Metro officially opened, revolutionising urban mobility in the city. The metro became the backbone of Dubai’s public transport system, offering a rapid, efficient alternative to road travel and reducing congestion. It also marked a significant step towards sustainable transport, with Nol cards introduced to streamline ticketing across the city’s public transport network.
Expanding the Network (2010-2014)
The expansion continued through the 2010s, with the RTA continually adding services and infrastructure to meet growing demand. In 2010, Dubai celebrated its first Free Public Transport Day, encouraging residents to switch to mass transit. A year later, the Green Line of the Dubai Metro opened, further improving connectivity between residential and commercial areas. This was followed by the launch of the Dubai Tram in 2014, connecting areas like Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, providing additional options for commuters.
Modern Innovations (2016-2025)
In the second half of the 2010s, RTA continued to innovate with ambitious projects. The opening of the Dubai Water Canal in 2016 added a new landmark, while 2017 saw the trial of flying taxis, positioning Dubai as a leader in futuristic urban mobility. The introduction of the hybrid abra in 2018 further demonstrated the city’s commitment to sustainability, offering a more eco-friendly way to travel across the waterways.
The years following were marked by high-profile infrastructure projects, including the opening of the Infinity Bridge in 2022, which connected Deira and Bur Dubai, and the trial run of electric buses in 2025. This was part of the RTA’s broader goal of achieving zero-emission public transport by 2050. Additionally, the first successful test flight of a flying taxi in 2025 signalled the city’s readiness to embrace autonomous air transport as part of its future mobility plans.
RTA’s Impact on Dubai’s Growth
Over the past 20 years, RTA’s initiatives have had a significant impact on the city, both in terms of infrastructure and economic growth. The RTA has played a key role in enhancing the accessibility of Dubai’s various communities, contributing to a Dh158 billion increase in real estate values. It has also been a major economic contributor, with a cumulative impact of Dh156 billion on Dubai’s GDP. The RTA’s services, including over 1,300 public buses and a network of 31,000 taxis and limousines, serve millions of people every day, providing a crucial foundation for the city’s continued growth and development.
For further insight into how the RTA is shaping Dubai’s future, how its projects are transforming urban life.
As Dubai looks to the future, the RTA’s plans for self-driving trackless trams and an expanded flying taxi network highlight the city’s ambition to remain at the forefront of urban mobility. With these initiatives, the RTA continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in public transport, positioning Dubai as a global leader in innovative, sustainable urban infrastructure.
