Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has introduced significant advancements to its public transport services, aiming to enhance commuter convenience and align with the emirate’s smart city vision. Passengers across various modes of transport can now access free Wi-Fi and utilize cashless payment options, reflecting RTA’s commitment to integrating technology into daily commutes.
As of February 2025, the RTA, in collaboration with e& , has successfully installed free Wi-Fi services in 29 key stations, encompassing 17 public bus stations and 12 marine transport stations. This initiative allows commuters to stay connected via smartphones, tablets, and laptops during their journeys. Khaled AbdulRahman Al Awadhi, Director of Transportation Systems at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, stated that efforts are underway to extend this service to all 43 RTA stations, with completion expected by the second quarter of 2025. This move underscores RTA’s dedication to accelerating digital transformation and enhancing the daily commuting experience, contributing to Dubai’s ambition to become the world’s smartest and happiest city.
In addition to station-wide connectivity, the RTA has expanded free Wi-Fi services to its taxi fleet. The ‘Tech Taxi’ initiative, launched in 2019, equipped taxis with free Wi-Fi and interactive touch screens, enabling passengers to access digital services, track their journey, and communicate with drivers through instant language translation displayed on the meter screen. This initiative aims to make taxi rides more enjoyable and informative, providing real-time information on currency exchange rates and allowing passengers to share their journey map with relatives or associates. The RTA’s goal is to integrate advanced technology into transportation services, enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Complementing the Wi-Fi rollout, the RTA has embraced cashless payment systems to facilitate seamless transactions for commuters. Since 2018, passengers have been able to pay taxi fares using Samsung Pay and Apple Pay applications on their smartphones, in addition to traditional cash and credit card payments. This service, implemented in partnership with Network International, aligns with Dubai’s ‘Smart City’ initiative, offering taxi riders smooth payment options that enhance satisfaction and convenience. Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency, emphasized that as many as 8,000 taxicabs have been equipped with Point of Sale technology, with plans to expand the service to cover a larger number of taxi users.
These technological advancements are part of a broader strategy to promote the use of public transportation in Dubai. By integrating free Wi-Fi and cashless payment options, the RTA aims to make public transport more appealing, thereby reducing reliance on private vehicles and contributing to environmental sustainability. The introduction of these services reflects Dubai’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve urban mobility and enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors.
