Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has begun testing a new electric bus on Route F13, which connects passengers to key metro stations.

The route starts at the Al Quoz Bus Depot and passes major landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, The Palace Downtown Hotel, and the Dubai Fountain, ending at the Dubai Mall Metro Bus Stop (South).

Packed with Smart Tech

This eco-friendly bus is loaded with modern technology. Instead of traditional mirrors, it uses high-definition cameras and screens. It also features a transparent head-up display that projects key driving information onto the windscreen, helping drivers stay aware of road conditions.

The RTA says this trial is part of its bigger goal: to make all public transport in Dubai zero-emission by 2050.

Designed for Dubai

Built with the UAE climate in mind, the 12-metre-long electric bus includes a top-tier air conditioning system and powerful batteries with 470 kWh of storage, the largest in any RTA electric bus tested so far.

On a full charge, the bus can travel up to 370 kilometres and has room for 76 passengers, 41 seated and 35 standing.

What the Trial Will Measure

RTA’s Public Transport Agency Director, Marwan Al Zarooni, explained that this trial will help the authority collect important data. The aim is to test how well the bus performs in real-world conditions, especially during hot summer months, and how much it can help reduce carbon emissions.

The trial will also assess whether the electric bus can meet the daily demands of a busy route with regular passengers, helping shape the future of sustainable transport in Dubai.

(Source: RTA)

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced the successful testing of new biometric ID systems that could replace the need for physical Emirates ID cards.

These high-tech systems use facial recognition and artificial intelligence (AI), and can be accessed through the Authority’s smart app. Developed with the help of key partners, the new technology aims to improve security, accuracy, and ease of use without replacing the current ID system just yet.

Where It Will Be Used

The new digital ID system is expected to be rolled out across major sectors, including government, banking, telecoms, healthcare, hospitality, and insurance, all areas where secure and accurate identification is vital.

The ICP has confirmed that these systems follow strict technical checks and data protection laws, ensuring safety and privacy for users.

This update was shared in a written response to a Federal National Council (FNC) member’s question about how electronic IDs can improve public services.

Step-by-Step Roll-Out

The ICP explained that the switch to digital identity is being carried out in phases. It began with the digitalisation of basic services and is now expanding to more complex ones. The full roll-out is expected within a year, starting with the services mentioned by the FNC.

The Authority is working with top organisations to bring the new systems into their platforms, supporting the UAE’s goal of becoming a global leader in digital innovation.

“Digital identity is more than just a tool — it opens the door to better services, stronger security, and more convenience,” the Authority said.

Cutting Red Tape

As part of its wider digital transformation, the ICP launched a campaign in August 2024 to reduce government bureaucracy. Called The Month of Eliminating Government Bureaucracy, the campaign encouraged both government workers and the public to suggest ways to improve services.

Events were held in shopping centres, community spaces, and service centres across the Emirates to gather feedback and ideas.

Award for Innovation

To support the campaign, the ICP introduced the Bureaucracy Elimination Award. Open to employees, service users, and partners, the award recognises ideas that help make government processes simpler and more efficient.

(Source: GN)

Motorists, brace yourselves, a thick blanket of dust has swept across the UAE, prompting urgent weather alerts and safety warnings from officials.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has sounded orange and yellow dust alerts in several regions, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra, warning of poor visibility on the roads. So if you’re heading out, drive slow and stay sharp.

And it’s not just visibility taking a hit, the mercury is dipping too. Expect cooler temperatures today, with highs between 32°C and 37°C and lows from 22°C to 26°C. But don’t let the chill fool you – powerful winds are stirring up a desert storm, with gusts reaching up to 50 km/hr along the coasts and islands and up to 45 km/hr inland and in mountainous areas.

Residents are urged to stay indoors as much as possible, keep doors and windows shut tight, and avoid exposure to the fine dust particles swirling through the air.

NCM says the murky skies and gusty winds will continue to cause chaos through tomorrow (April 17). Plan well ahead, it’s a rough ride on the roads.