Dubai is rolling out its next-generation bus shelters, designed to offer modern, comfortable, and user-friendly facilities for public transport passengers. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that the overall project completion rate has reached 89 per cent, with the shelters set to serve a significant number of bus routes, some accommodating more than 10 routes each. Once fully operational, the network is expected to handle over 192 million passengers annually.

“We focused on combining modern, aesthetic design with a range of services that enhance public confidence in the bus network, support sustainability goals, and make mass transit a more attractive choice,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the RTA.

The new shelters are categorised into four models based on daily usage: Main stops (750+ passengers), secondary stops (250–750), basic stops (100–250), and drop-off/pick-up points (under 100). Key features include air-conditioned canopies in major areas, shaded outdoor spaces, advertising areas, and digital information screens displaying route maps, timetables, and real-time arrivals.

Accessibility has also been a priority. The shelters are designed according to the Dubai Code for People of Determination, with designated spaces for wheelchairs, supporting the emirate’s initiative to become a fully inclusive city.

With these upgrades, the RTA aims to enhance network efficiency, reduce travel times, and increase reliance on sustainable public transport across Dubai.

Bisleri International, India’s leading packaged drinking water brand, has signed a three-year partnership with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) to become its Official Hydration Partner. The agreement was formalised at Dubai International Stadium and marks a major step in Bisleri’s expansion in the UAE while promoting hydration and wellness in sports.

Under the partnership, Bisleri branding will appear on the uniforms of the Men’s, Women’s, U19 Men’s, and U19 Women’s national teams. The branding will feature across bilateral series, Asian Cricket Council events, and ICC tournaments, increasing visibility for the brand across high-profile cricket platforms.

Subhan Ahmad, COO of ECB, said: “We are delighted to start this exciting three-year journey with Bisleri. The Emirates Cricket Board continues to formalise partnerships with leading international brands and looks forward to a mutually rewarding collaboration for both men’s and women’s teams.”

Ishan Chopra, Head of Commercial at ECB, added: “This partnership represents a strong alignment of values and ambitions, reinforcing our mission to empower UAE cricket talent at every level while representing the nation globally.”

Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International, said: “Bisleri is synonymous with packaged drinking water and a market leader in India. This partnership with ECB brings together two strong institutions with a shared commitment to excellence and helps strengthen Bisleri’s international presence.”

Tushar Malhotra, Director of Sales and Marketing at Bisleri, added: “We are thrilled to champion hydration alongside the Emirates Cricket Board. This collaboration will be brought alive through an exciting, integrated marketing approach across India and the UAE.”

Dubai is set to roll out a major urban transformation with the creation of 152 new parks across two key residential districts, bringing green spaces within a 150-metre walk of homes and redefining family-friendly city living. The plan also includes more than 33km of cycling tracks, central community parks, and new majlis and wedding halls.

During a meeting of The Executive Council, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved a major package of policies and strategic frameworks aimed at strengthening urban planning, housing, and digital resilience across the emirate.

Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai is advancing on a people-first development path that strengthens its position as a global model in urban and social planning.
“Citizen welfare and family empowerment form the foundation of Dubai’s future plans,” he said, adding that the focus is on building socially connected, service-integrated communities that enhance quality of life.

New residential planning model

The Executive Council approved a pioneering planning framework for citizens’ residential areas, designed to enhance quality of life, social stability, and sustainable living, while supporting the Dubai Urban Plan 2040.

The model promotes:

• Walkable, interconnected neighbourhoods
• Shaded pedestrian paths and cycling tracks
• Active, community-focused parks and public spaces
• The revival of the traditional Fareej concept to strengthen social bonds

Open spaces will be transformed into vibrant hubs for cultural, social, and community activities, encouraging interaction and a stronger sense of belonging.

152 new parks and cycling networks

As part of the plan, 152 parks will be added across Madinat Latifa and Al Yalayis, ensuring residents are no more than 150 metres from a park. More than 33 kilometres of cycling paths will be introduced, alongside:

• Central community parks
• New community majlis
• Wedding halls

This supports Dubai’s 20-Minute City vision, creating an interconnected network of green spaces within easy reach of homes.

In Madinat Latifa, around 11% of the area will be dedicated to green and open spaces, with:

• 12km of walking and cycling paths
• Facilities spread across 3,000 hectares
• Housing for 141,000 residents
• 18,500 homes and 77 parks

In Al Yalayis, a new green corridor will link residential areas with recreational, service and commercial zones across 1,108 hectares, serving:

• 66,000 residents
• 8,000 residential plots
• 75 parks

Digital Resilience Policy approved

The Executive Council also approved Dubai’s Digital Resilience Policy, a comprehensive framework to protect digital infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted digital services.

The policy supports the Dubai Digital Strategy 2023 and focuses on:

• Strengthening cyber protection
• Safeguarding critical digital assets
• Ensuring service continuity
• Improving emergency response and recovery

It introduces a structured governance framework, performance indicators, and coordinated public-private sector collaboration to protect data centres, cloud platforms, networks, and user devices.

Executive Council Agenda 2026

The Council reviewed achievements under the 2025 agenda and approved the 2026 plan, which will drive the priorities of the Dubai Plan 2033 across key sectors including:

• Social development
• Infrastructure
• Economy and investment
• Entrepreneurship
• Security, justice and public services

Together, the new policies and planning frameworks reinforce Dubai’s long-term vision of building family-focused, resilient, digitally advanced and sustainable communities.