Dubai Pilots Shared Tech-Enabled School Transport
Dubai has launched a pilot school transport service that combines shared routing with app-based technology, offering families a new way to manage the daily commute. Rolled out on 14 January 2026, the initiative uses luxury SUVs to carry students from multiple schools along common routes. As a result, it provides a more affordable alternative to private car trips and conventional school buses while maintaining strict safety requirements.
A shared model focused on safety and efficiency
As part of the city’s broader push for smart and sustainable mobility, the service meets Dubai’s highest school transport safety standards. At the same time, integrated technology enables continuous monitoring of vehicles, live tracking, and clearer trip management for parents. Consequently, families gain better visibility into daily journeys, while operators maintain consistent service quality. In addition, the shared approach reduces the number of individual vehicles on the road, which helps ease congestion around school zones during peak hours.
Cost-conscious transport with clear time commitments
The service is available to students aged 14 and above and launches with a monthly rate of AED 1,000, payable online. Importantly, each journey is designed to deliver students from home to school within a maximum of 60 minutes. By grouping students from the same neighbourhoods, the model lowers overall costs for families. Moreover, it cuts reliance on private drop-offs, which creates safer and more orderly pick-up and drop-off areas, especially for households with multiple children or longer commutes.
Initial school coverage and future outlook
Initially, the pilot serves students attending Bloom Academy, Brighton College, GEMS Founders School, GEMS Al Barsha National School, Dubai American Academy, and the American School of Dubai. Pick-up and drop-off schedules align with each school’s timetable, and parents receive assigned timings in advance. As the programme develops, feedback from families and schools will guide improvements and possible expansion. Ultimately, the initiative may evolve into a long-term transport option that supports safer roads, lower costs, and a more efficient daily commute across Dubai.
