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Roads and Transport Authority has revealed that its public bus fleet has exceeded a combined operational distance of 2 million kilometres per vehicle, establishing a new global standard for durability and efficiency in public transportation.
The milestone comes after 18 years of continuous service, positioning Dubai ahead of other major transport systems worldwide. Comparable fleets in London and Singapore have recorded significantly lower figures, with maximum distances of approximately 1.3 million and 1.4 million kilometres respectively.
Surpassing Global Standards
Despite the extensive mileage and long service life, the fleet has continued to perform at a high level. In 2025, the buses maintained an operational availability rate of over 93 percent, while fault levels remained notably low compared to international benchmarks. This has allowed the vehicles to stay in active use far beyond their initial service expectations.
Officials attribute this achievement to a strong focus on preventive and routine maintenance. Instead of retiring older buses, the authority has adopted a strategy of extending their operational lifespan through consistent upkeep and efficient management practices.
This approach aligns with circular economy principles, reducing the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new vehicles and frequent fleet replacements. By keeping buses in service longer, the RTA has also minimised waste and contributed to sustainability goals.
Cost Savings and Efficiency Gains
In addition to environmental benefits, the strategy has resulted in substantial financial savings. By delaying large-scale fleet replacements, the authority has reduced capital expenditure while continuing to provide reliable and efficient services to commuters across Dubai.
The milestone highlights Dubai’s commitment to innovation in public transport, demonstrating how strategic maintenance and long-term planning can deliver both economic and environmental advantages.
