content credit: gulf new
Dubai’s public transport system had a remarkable year in 2024, with a total of 747.1 million riders using different modes of transport, including buses, taxis, the metro, marine transport, and shared mobility services. This is a 6.4% increase compared to 2023, where 702 million people used these services. On average, over 2 million people used public transport each day, up from 1.92 million in the previous year.
Breakdown of Ridership
The most popular transport option in Dubai was the metro, which made up 37% of total ridership. Dubai Metro’s Red and Green Lines saw 275.4 million riders, showing a 6% increase from 2023. Taxis came next, with 27% of the total ridership, though this was slightly down from 28% the previous year. Public buses were also widely used, carrying 25% of all riders, up from 24.7% in 2023. Shared mobility services, including smart app-based ride-hailing and bus-on-demand, grew by 28%, making up 7.5% of the total ridership in 2024.
Monthly and Seasonal Trends
The highest ridership was recorded in November 2024, with 69.9 million riders. October and December followed closely with 68.4 million and 68 million riders, respectively. The months of October and November also saw the highest number of trips, each reaching 14.1 million.
Investment in Infrastructure
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), praised the growth, attributing it to significant investments in the city's transport network. Dubai’s metro system has expanded to nearly 90 km, and the bus network now spans nearly 4,000 km. Marine transport, including abras and water taxis, also serves a vital role in the city’s mobility system.
In December 2024, RTA awarded a contract for the Dubai Metro Blue Line project, which will connect key urban areas and Dubai International Airport. The 30 km Blue Line will be a major step in expanding public transport, serving over 1 million residents and improving mobility across the city.
Future Plans
RTA is committed to improving public transport further, with plans to expand bus and taxi lanes in 2025 and 2026. These lanes are expected to increase ridership by 10% and improve travel times by up to 42%. Additionally, RTA is exploring new technologies, such as self-driving buses and trackless trams, which will provide more eco-friendly and efficient transport options.
The Road Ahead
The growth of public transport and shared mobility services in Dubai shows a positive trend towards more sustainable travel. With future developments, including the Blue Line and self-driving buses, Dubai’s transport network is set to become even more efficient and accessible for residents and visitors.
