Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled the Mall of the Emirates Smart Bus Station, the city’s first fully smart bus station, in a move aimed at strengthening Dubai’s public transport network through digital innovation and sustainable mobility solutions.
The new station, directly linked to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station, serves 11 bus routes and offers customers around-the-clock interactive digital services designed to improve convenience, reduce waiting times and create a smoother travel experience.
Designed with sustainability and modern technology at its core, the station represents what the RTA describes as a future model for public transport facilities across Dubai. Authorities plan to expand the concept to further integrate the emirate’s transport network and support growing demand for smart mobility services.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said the project marked “a major step forward” in the authority’s strategy to create a more attractive and integrated public transport system.
“At RTA, we are committed to enhancing customer service by harnessing the latest digital technologies and smart solutions to deliver the highest levels of comfort and efficiency for users, while strengthening the appeal of the public transport network,” Al Tayer said.
He added that the initiative supports Dubai’s wider ambition to become “the best city to live, work and visit” by encouraging more residents and tourists to choose public transport for daily travel.
Key features
The station spans around 147 square metres and can accommodate up to 20 passengers at one time. It also includes a dedicated rest area for drivers. Among its key features is a real-time digital information system displaying bus and Metro arrival times, taxi availability, station maps and routes to nearby landmarks. The system is integrated with Dubai Metro and taxi services, allowing passengers to plan journeys more efficiently.
A smart kiosk provides additional customer services, including a virtual assistant for journey planning, Lost and Found support and direct access to the RTA call centre.
Passengers can also view live occupancy levels on approaching buses to help reduce overcrowding and spread demand more evenly across services.
For added convenience, the station includes digital ticketing and top-up machines, as well as a smart vending machine offering beverages and loyalty rewards.
AI-powered cameras have been installed to monitor crowds and detect violations, providing real-time operational data to improve safety and efficiency.
The station has also been developed in line with international sustainability standards, with solar panels generating power and smart sensors monitoring air quality.
As a major interchange within Dubai’s transport network, the hub connects residential, commercial and tourist destinations including Al Barsha, Arabian Ranches, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village.
