The Official Monthly Magazine of `s RTA Issue No. 82 April 2015

Ahmed bin Mohammed honors winners of the 7th Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport

Live Trial on a driverless Vehicle

Culture of Sustainability The Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport (DAST), held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, made great strides in establishing itself as one of the leading awards in supporting and encouraging successful initiatives in the areas of mobility, safety and preserving the environment. The award succeeded in achieving its objectives including the dissemination of participatory culture with the society institutions and encouraging them to play an active and positive role to support RTA in achieving its goals in mainstreaming successful experiences and practices that contribute to the provision of effective and sustainable transport system. The Award strengthens interactions and cooperation with various institutions, and strategic partners in the areas of transportation, safety and environmental conservation. It also contributes to the achievement of RTA’s strategic objectives relating to the integration of the transportation systems, achieving the highest levels of safety and security, and setting the sustainable transport and preservation of the environment within the main concerns of the local media and institutions. DAST has seen in its seventh edition qualitative development represented in the rising number of participation by 44% from the previous year. The number of key categories of the award increased from three categories in the first edition to six main categories and four sub-categories in the seventh edition where a new main category was introduced in the area of (Smart Applications). In addition to the introduction of two sub- categories: sustainable transportation projects from university and school students to participate in the award, and most frequent users of mass transit modes. In closing, I would like to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, for his presence and honoring the winning companies , institutions, and individuals at the seventh edition of DAST awarding ceremony.. In addition, I congratulate the companies, institutions and individuals who won various categories of the Award, thanking and appreciating their initiatives in supporting mass transit, safety and preservation of the environment. Furthermore, I would like to thank the sponsors for their support of the Award and I call on institutions and companies, which did not participate to take part in the upcoming edition to disseminate the successful practices to reach an integrated and sustainable transport system.

Mattar Al Tayer Chairman of the Board and Executive Director 06 Ahmed bin Mohammed honors winners of the 7th Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport 14 ‏MoU with Etihad Rail 16 Plans and initiatives to implement the National Strategy for Innovation

‏Awards and achievements Live experiments to use vehicles without a driver under the 20 supervision of the Authority

Our projects A new bridge on AlKodra Street- «Khail Road I” linking Jumeirah 22 Lahbab Road 23 Lakes Towers and Discovery Garden

A guide to put forward (Etihad 24 Oasis) before the developers

16

Advice on decreasing vehicle movement during bad weather Reciprocal ‏ Ads ‏Al Masar warns against possible increase in Initiative accidents during rainfall في هذا CONTENTSالعدد 06

‏Our services The semitrailer (Alqalosa) is illegal Happiness of the staff by 26 without a license 28 automating the internal services

centers for the renewal of driving 31 and vehicle licenses

Community Safety 33 The contest is themed ‘Our Safety is our Responsibility’

24 33 OurOur News News

Under the patronage of Hamdan bin Mohammed Ahmed bin Mohammed decorates winners of 7th Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport

Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Establishment, decorated entities, businesses and individuals winning the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport (DAST) 2014. The Award is one of the initiatives launched by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to stimulate public and private entities to contribute to reducing the traffic congestion and protecting the environment.

6 Upon arrival at the event’s venue in spotlighting the efforts of Dubai Transportation, delivered the opening the Dubai World Trade Center, HH in conserving the environment & speech in which he praised the huge was received by H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, natural resources, and implementing strides made by the UAE in general Chairman of the Board and Executive the principles of sustainable and Dubai Emirate in particular Director of the RTA, and a number of development capable of shaping the in providing an infrastructure & top executives of public and private future and welfare of humans. transport systems that stand out as a entities. Then H.E. Ray LaHood, the former model to be emulated in the region. Attendees watched a movie Secretary of US Department of LaHood spoke about the challenges he encountered during his tenure as Secretary of US Department of Transportation in realizing President Obama’s vision for a sustainable public transport system in America. He stated that he dealt with the legacy of transport infrastructure and its positive effect on communities and the lives of people throughout the USA. He also reviewed the role of investment in the infrastructure of transport sector, involving the private sector in undertaking mass transit systems, and the role of transport in creating jobs for youth. He also touched on the benefits of a high- speed light rail system in easing the

Issue No. 82 April 2015 7 Our News

movement of people, and concluded driven fleet management system for with You initiative, and Nasser Bin by tackling the future developments effective utilization of resources and Abdullatif Alserkal Est. finished third and generations of various transit safe transport. CAR lifts new vehicles for Improving Tire Safety Leading to systems, particularly rail networks. to various showrooms and customers Road Safety Improvements initiative. Decorating Winners across the UAE in view of the massive Environment HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin increase in the number of vehicles. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the The Dubai World Trade Center bin Rashid Al Maktoum also felicitated Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum finished second for Road Safety Starts the winners in the Preservation of the Establishment, accompanied by Mattar Al Tayer, decorated the winners of various categories of the Award. DP World clinched the first position in the Mobility Management category for the DP World Traffic Management Center project; which plays a key role in the smooth traffic flow in Jebel Ali area. The Center monitors the traffic movement at Jebel Ali Port, operates patrols, and provides assistance during emergency cases. Airline was the runner-up for the project Cabin Crew Transportation and the Department of Residency and Foreigners Affairs came third for its Working from Home initiative. In the Transport Safety category, Al Rostomani Transport LLC (CAR) finished first for its Technology

8 diesel at the Airport, and operating 16 vehicles powered by clean electricity. The Dubai Municipality finished second for Car Free Day initiative and the third position wet to ADNATCO and NGSCO for Al Daffah Project. In the Disabled Mobility category, the Emirates Transport won the first position for its Arrive Safely initiative aimed at enhancing the confidence of parents in public transport for the disabled. The initiative comprises a comprehensive system for the mobility of the disabled involving direct surveillance in transit Environment category where The to reducing the movement of taxis through a host of integrated smart Centre for Regulation of Transport in Abu Dhabi Emirate, running a services. Such services include the by Hire Cars in Abu Dhabi was the promotional campaign to encourage deployment of smart buses fitted winner for its initiative of curbing the public to pre-book taxis through with tracking technology, smart cards carbon emissions resulting from the smart phones or Call Center, for the disabled, display monitors, operation of taxis in Abu Dhabi and converting 25% of taxi to vehicles surveillance cameras, accessories the deployment of environment- powered by natural gas, deploying for boarding and alighting from the friendly taxis. The initiative stands 220 deluxe cabs powered by green- bus, educational library, and safety fittings onboard. The Emirates Airline came second Special Needs Transport initiative.

School Transport Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology was the winner in the School Transport Category for its initiative of Safety Requirements in School Buses, which comprises stipulations, and requirements that ensure preparing standard specifications for school buses to ensure the safety of the school bus and students on board. It sets requirements related to safety belts, maximum speed, and mandatory stop signal with cautionary signals at sideways and rear of the bus. This specification is the first nation-

Issue No. 82 April 2015 9 Our News

to maintain the security & safety of students through providing an electronic system comprising effective features and high-quality technology enabling parents to identify the location of dropping off/boarding of their children as well as their attendance or absence. The Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi was the runner-up for its Integrated Transportation & Navigation Information System project. HH felicitated the winners in the Special Awards category where the reporter Fadia Hani from Al wide that sets comprehensive Transportation, and Salma Al Ansaria Bayan Newspaper won the Best requirements of school buses, Primary School came third for Me and Media Coverage highlighting the which helps provide the minimum My Bus in Safety initiative. key elements of the Award namely: quality of school transport with the In the Smart Apps category, which encouraging public transport, aim of maximizing the protection has been introduced in the 7th conserving the environment, and and safety of students. Springdales edition, the Emirates Transport Est. improving the safety of transport School in Dubai finished second for bagged the first position for the means. In the Best Academic Research ‘SMART’ Safety Initiative for School Safety Card App. This card seeks category, Dr. Khawla Abdullah Saif Al

10 Kaabi was the winner for a research entitled: Comparing government and private employment ridership of . HH also decorated varsities and schools winning the Sustainable Transport Projects category, namely: Khulood Ahmed Alshehhi, Khulood Ahmed Balfaqeeh, Amal Ahmed Alshehhi, and Rabia Hameed Chaudhry from the UAE University who won the Best Student Traffic Evaluation Project of a Roundabout to Signalized Intersection Conversion. The student project submitted by the UAE University entitled the Modular Temporary Infrastructure for Dubai Metro came second Transport category, the winners Sponsors and the third position went to the were Mohammad Ali Ahmadzadeh, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Sustainable Forms of Usage Subhash Singh Parmar, Dasnadi bin Rashid Al Maktoum decorated in Automotive app submitted by Mohamed Ilyas, Mohamed Muneer the sponsors of DAST and members students of Manipal University. In Abubaker, and Mohammed Asad Ali of the Judges Panel headed by Esa the Most Frequent Users of Public Alraisi Abdul Rahman Al Dosari.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 11 Our News

MENA Center for Transport Excellence organizes training program for transport executives in 17 countries

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), opened a specialist-training program entitled: Training Program for Public Transport Managers held in Dubai by the MENA Center for Transport Excellence (CTE). The event sponsored by the RTA and the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), attracted participation of public transport directors & executives hailing from 17 countries.

The training program spotlighted pioneering technologies worldwide,” said Al Tayer. exhibitions and workshops among other public transport practices, and reviewed “The RTA attaches considerable vital events. superb projects undertaken all over the importance to the public transport sector “The rapid demographic growth and globe. It also screened strategies, plans, and is keen to uplift it in terms of numbers, economic changes taking place throughout projects and ideas whose owners aspire quality and efficiency. It has managed to , particularly in the MENA region, to leave a clear impact on public transport provide an array of mass transit means pose a huge challenge to government industry for the benefit of metro, bus, metro, comprising the metro, tram, buses and entities in providing express transit means tram and marine transit means riders. water transit means of high quality and and meeting the requirements of the “This course took place in implementation wide geographical coverage spanning economic growth. Grooming ambitious of the Dubai Innovation Partners initiative the entire Emirate. Public transit means in & energetic public transport leaders is a that has been launched by HH Sheikh Dubai lift about 1.47 million riders or more key requisite of sound & advanced mass Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid every day,” he added. transit systems to cope with the rapid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Al Tayer commended the good urbanization and demographic growth. Chairman of the Executive Council. This organization of the training program by There is a growing need for providing initiative aimed at boosting cooperation the MENA Center for Transport Excellence comprehensive high-class public transport with a number of leading international in Dubai. He expressed his pleasure to means to serve all segments of the companies and benefiting from the high- see top transport executives from various community, and improve their travelling class international expertise to enhance the members of the UIIP in this important experience for doing jobs within the city or profile of Dubai as a premier destination gathering held in Dubai, which had an the nation,” concluded RTA Chairman of the for developing and launching top class impressive record in hosting conventions, Board and Executive Director.

12 Vital Responsibility Al Tayer: Fast track growth, economic Abdul Aziz Malek, Director of the MENA changes pose challenges to governments Center for Transport Excellence, said: “This training program has left a clear impact in providing rapid transit means on participants as the MENA Center for is receptive, hospitable and offers a great of China, commended the sweeping Transport Excellence is always keen on experience to visitors regardless of their development seen by the Emirate of keeping abreast of the latest developments backgrounds. Dubai over the last seven years. “I was thrilled of public transport industry along with Ms. Sini Puntanen, from Finland who is with the extent of advanced infrastructure modern strategies adopted in this field. visiting Dubai for the first time, described the of public transit means and roads network. The MENA Center for Transport Excellence city as splendid and vibrant and expressed In 2007/2008, I worked for a company that is keen to communicate the developments her admiration of the public transport undertook projects for the RTA, but the to member entities and public transport system of Dubai, especially the Dubai Metro phenomenal achievements made afterwards executives who shoulder the responsibility and Tram as well as the unique infrastructure are beyond all expectations. of operating mass transit modes in modern of modern roads network. MENA Center for Transport Excellence (CTE) cities worldwide. Simon Cox, from Australia, was satisfied with The MENA Center for Transport Excellence “Roles and responsibilities assumed by the training program held in RTA’s Head has emerged under a strategic partnership public transport directors are very critical as Office considering it a fabulous opportunity between the RTA and the UITP that also they relate to providing services to a wide for sharing expertise with a number of provides for staging the MENA Public spectrum of the community at the highest participants from all corners of the globe Transport Congress and Exhibition biennially standards and world-class practices. Such offering a diverse array of experiences. for ten years. services illustrate the trends set by global “Dubai has built a unique architectural The MENA Center for Transport Excellence governments in establishing modern model of metro stations, which added a aims at boosting public transport strategies metropolis where inhabitants enjoy happy gorgeous touch to the city as they boast in the MENA region, establishing information life, smooth mobility as well as a hassle-free of a creative design combining a blend of center for the best transportation practices, & safe environment,” said Malek. modernity and true Emirati heritage. and training transport specialists on the “Entities responsible for operating public Daniel Adamka, from the Czech Republic said: highest international practices of the transit means worldwide definitely face “I’m excited with my first visit to Dubai; a city industry. It also conducts researches & challenges not restricted only to the growing that I have long heard about and saw a host of studies in the field of transportation, urbanization & demographic expansion, but its wonders in various fields via the television promotes cooperation & sharing of expertise also in disseminating the culture of using and the internet. He expressed his deep between stakeholders in the region and public transport means rendering it an pleasure for taking part in the training program beyond including universities, diffusing the indispensible daily routine in their life. This held in the RTA, which, he said, offered an culture of public transport in the region, will only be possible through launching opportunity for meeting public transport and assisting countries of the region obtain regular awareness events and propagating experts & specialists from all over the world. successful practices of public transport to positive messages to encourage the use Kevin Kiang, from Hong Kong, Republic serve their mobility needs. of these modes by highlighting benefits accruable to users and environmental dividends in terms of sustainability & public The MENA Center for Transport Excellence (CTE) has become a health,” added Malek. reference for professional researches and sharing practical knowhow, besides offering real-time applications that provide better mobility Model City for residents, and nurturing a healthy living environment. Among the Participants in the training program key initiatives handled by the MENA Center for Transport Excellence expressed deep delight for holding the is setting up of a cluster of channels aimed at streamlining transport event in the Emirate of Dubai, which they towards sharing practices and experiences, compiling reports about described as a model city that brings mobility policies in the MENA region, and holding training courses to happiness to all inhabitants, visitors and assist personnel working in the transportation sector. tourists. They further added that the city

Issue No. 82 April 2015 13 Our News

RTA SIGNS STRATEGIC AGREEMENT مذكرة تفاهم مع االتحاد للقطارات WITH ETIHAD RAIL

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) with the Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network signed a significant strategic agreement. The agreement will focus on cooperation in securing railway alignments, station locations and defining the contractual and operational responsibilities for both parties.

Signed the agreement were HE Nasser and H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the and Transport Authority. Ahmed Alsuwaidi, Chairman of Etihad Rail Board and Executive Director of the Roads As part of the agreement, RTA will assign

RTA to strengthen strategic partnership with Dubai Courts

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has recently held a coordinative meeting with HE the expert Tarish Eid Al Mansouri, Director-General of Dubai Courts.

During the meeting, the two sides At the onset of the meeting, Al Tayer its vision and aspirations,” he stated. discussed the prospects of strengthening welcomed the Director-General of the HE Tarish Al Mansouri briefed HE cooperation and their existing strategic Dubai Courts and praised the fruitful Mattar Al Tayer on the new layout of partnership. The two parties sought cooperation and strategic partnership the Personal Cases Court building at to set a corporate framework for their between the RTA and Dubai Courts. “The adjacent to the RTA HQ. Al relationships in the interest of all cooperation between public entities in the Mansouri noted that the contractor is community segments, and the overall Dubai emirate is decisive to the strategic currently finalizing the project, which is development drive in the emirate. drive of the government towards achieving expectedly to be open in the second half

14 representatives to coordinate issuing Non- operations. Strengthening communication also form a vital part of the GCC Railway Objection Certificates (NOCs) of any road channels with other government entities Network, linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia works required by Etihad Rail in line with will guarantee the efficient development of through Ghweifat in the west and Oman the timeline and framework agreed by this important project, which will transform through Al Ain in the east. both parties. the transport industry across the UAE and Etihad Rail has committed to conducting drive our nation’s future growth.” technical studies and presenting the “Etihad Rail would constitute an essential Notes to the editors: findings in the form of architectural part of the UAE’s future transport About Etihad Rail (www.etihadrail.ae) reports and blueprints to the responsible infrastructure, and this agreement marks Etihad Rail was established in June 2009 governmental authorities in Dubai. Etihad an important step in realizing this goal,” under Federal Law no. 2, with a mandate Rail will also report on any modifications to said Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board to manage the development, construction the railway alignment or the surrounding and Executive Director of the RTA. “Etihad and operation of the UAE’s national freight areas, particularly on any operational Rail will provide a safe and efficient means and passenger railway network. Being built issues. The organization will also commit of transport that will increase the number in three stages, the railway network will to defining the widths of the railway of public transport users in the UAE, link the principal centres of population and where it guarantees maximum operational contributing to significant economic and industry of the UAE, and will form a vital efficiency and cooperate with RTA on social benefits, and we are glad to support part of the planned GCC railway network health and safety related matters under this vital project.” across the six countries of the GCC. Dubai standards. Upon completion, the Etihad Rail network Construction on Stage One has been “We are delighted to cooperate with the will span approximately 1,200 kilometers completed, with services between RTA and sign this agreement, which would across the UAE, transporting both freight Habshan and Ruwais already operational assist Etihad Rail in develop the national rail and passengers. It will connect urban and on a testing basis since September 2013. network of the UAE on time,” said Nasser peripheral communities, facilitate trade, Stage Two will connect the railway to Alsuwaidi, Chairman of Etihad Rail. “In the open up communication channels and Mussafah, Khalifa Port and Jebel Ali port past five years, Etihad Rail has managed foster economic development across all and will see the railway extend to the Saudi to lay well established foundations for its Emirates in the UAE. The network will and Omani borders.

RTA to strengthen strategic partnership with Dubai Courts

of 2015. The 17,646 square-meter building consists of two basements for parking with a capacity of 174 slots. The ground floor comprises the main entrance and customer service offices, and the first floor will be designated to the hearing rooms and judges offices, the second floor also contains more hearing rooms along with consultant rooms while the From the RTA side, Ahmed Al Kaabi, were Abdul Rahim Hussain Ahli, Director third floor contains administration offices Director of Finance and Hussain Al Banna, of Finance, Administration, and Marwan and lectures halls with the possibility for Director of Traffic attended the meeting, Abdool, Manager of the Office of the expansion in the fourth floor. whereas representing the Dubai Courts Director-General of Dubai Courts.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 15 Our News

Plans include setting up innovation lab in addition to Research, Development and Innovation Section Innovative projects are highlighted by driverless vehicles, electric bus HE Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads and

Transport Authority (RTA), revealed that the RTA had endorsed plans, programs and initiatives for implementing the National Innovation Strategy and the Dubai Innovation Strategy. Such a move crystalizes implementation of the directives of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, designating 2015 as a year of innovation in the UAE. It also echoes the Dubai Innovation Strategy endorsed by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince, Chairman of the Executive Council, to make Dubai the most innovative city in the world.

Al Tayer made these comments during establishing a standing committee to and rail vibration sensors among others. the ceremony held by the RTA marking map out RTA’s innovation strategy and The RTA has also formed institutional its ninth anniversary organized at the establishing an innovation lab (incubator) research teams, established a Research, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and attended by concerned with the implementation of Development and Innovation Section CEOs, Directors and employees of the RTA. the best global practices of generating affiliated to the Office of the Chairman of Innovation innovative materials & technologies such as the Board and Executive Director, and set “Procedures adopted by the RTA include heat-resistant asphalt, dust-resistant glass, out innovation teams across RTA sectors

16 and agencies. It has also conducted a “This year the RTA will embark on a study much as 88 services provided via nine smart thorough review of the existing suggestions of the use of autonomous/driverless cars apps. The RTA will shortly start the test run system, upped rewards budget to motivate with the aim of deploying them in Expo of the electric bus; which is powered solely employees & customers contribute ideas 2020, and next May it will finalize the by electricity supplied by a rechargeable capable of overhauling business process, Transformation to the Smart Government battery, which can be recharged up to and allocated more financial resources for Project by introducing smart, innovative 80% in less than 30 minutes. When fully RTA’s Scientific Research Award in a bid to and user-friendly apps that meet customer charged, the battery will be provide the stimulate employees participation in the needs. The number of smart services power needed for the bus to travel up to Award,” said Al Tayer. provided by the RTA has so far soared to as 200 km, and the bus can travel at a speed

Issue No. 82 April 2015 17 Our News

of up to 100 km per hour,” he added. also included the , the first projects,” explained Al Tayer. Innovative Projects tramway outside Europe powered by “The RTA has constructed over the ground electric cables with no centenary Future Projects past years a host of innovative projects lines used throughout the track. It is also Concluding his speech, Al Tayer spanning roads and mass transit systems billed as the first tram in the world that commended the efforts of all employees highlighted by the Dubai Metro project, uses platform screen doors the mechanism enabling the RTA to overcome challenges the world’s longest driverless metro system of which is synchronized with the opening and accomplish a number of projects such stretching 75 km. The metro operation is and shutting mechanism of the tram’s as the opening of the Dubai Tram, Jumeirah built on Artificial Intelligence technology doors. The portfolio of innovative projects Corniche and several road projects. “The that works out the intervals (headway) include the Floating Bridge which had RTA has marked the start of this year with between journeys, measures the distance been constructed by the RTA in a short an array of quality projects that include between rolling stocks, and automatically time and contributed to easing tailbacks at completing the Dubai Water Canal linking realigns the headway between services in the Dubai crossings, toll gate system the with the Arabian Gulf via case of breakdowns or delay in scheduled (Salik), and the automated fare collection Dubai Downtown through a watercourse journeys. Innovative projects undertaken system (NOL), among other innovative extending 3 km, planning for Al Ittihad

18 in Transportation from one of the most prestigious British universities specialized in transport planning. He also decorated four Directors namely: Ms. Laila Mohammed Faridoon, Ms. Kawther Kazim, Nasir Hamad Bu Shehab, and Ahmed Al Kaabi. In the Best RTA Coordinators with Strategic Partners category, he honoured Ahmed Ali Al Kaabi, Sultan Abdullah Al Marzooki, and Udai Omar Al Deesi. He also felicitated the participants in Al Qudwah (Role Model) Program namely: Abdullah Al Madani, Abdul Rida Abu Al Hasan, Adel Shakri, Ahmed Al Kaabi, Ahmed Mahboub, Ameer Saleem, Kawther Kazim, Mohammed Al Mudharreb, Omar bin Haider, and Saeed Al Marri. Honorees in the Model Manager category included: Waleed Ameeri, Khalil Ibrahim Al Ali, Ekrima Khalaf, Abdullah Ibrahim Al Meer, Salah Al Delaimi, Abdullah Shehab Al Hamadi, Ali Abdullah Al Marzooki, and Bridge costing about 3 billion dirham, and Felicitation Tareq Abu Ghareeba. continuing the construction of various The annual ceremony included several In the Exemplary Employee category, road projects. Future projects also include spots highlighting the artistic talents of honorees were Dr. Khaled Ahmed Hamdi, extending the of the Dubai RTA’s employees in stage performances Mohammed Sajid Kenan Kolat, Malik Abdul Metro to the site of costing and singing where the Emirati signer Khaleq Khaled, Ahmed Ali Ibrahim Ahmed, about 6 billion dirham, and studying the Abdullah Bal Khair took part. Wrapping Omran Musa, Hamad Ismail Al Bedwawi, construction of Phase II and III of the Dubai up the ceremony, Al Tayer decorated Dr. Mohammed Mazin Al Banni, and Maher Tram project,” he continued. Sarah Ishaq who has been awarded Ph.D. Marwan Mutait. In the Exemplary Female Employee, honorees were Khadija Ali Hasan Musa, Aysha Al Ghawi, Muna Shaaban Al Baluchi, Sameeha Al Zarooni, Fatima Ibrahim Ahmed Al Ali, Lama Amin Shajrawi, Shahenaz Majaibel Al Maliki and Zainab Jawad Al Sayed. Al Tayer honored Suhai bin Abdullah bin Darwish who amassed the highest number of Letters of Appreciation as part of Tamayyaz program. He also decorated 23 employees in the field of site employees & front-end employees in addition to 35 long-serving employees.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 19 Our Achievements

RTA to embark on study of using Autonomous cars (driverless vehicles) The step is consistent with the UAE drive designating 2015 as a Year of Innovation

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the start in commissioning a study of using Autonomous cars (driverless vehicles) in Dubai as part of its endeavours to utilize the latest technologies in the field of smart mobility solutions to be considered for use in Expo 2020.

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board the first position worldwide in the field of electricity-powered smart vehicles have a and Executive Director of the Roads and innovation. significant contribution to reducing carbon Transport Authority (RTA) said that this “The step also falls within the execution of emissions, saving fuel consumption, and initiative is adopted in the implementation the Dubai innovation strategy endorsed improving the smart mobility, which in of the directives of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed turn contributes to transforming Dubai Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown into a smart city. Through this initiative, and his brother HH Sheikh Mohammed Prince and Chairman of the Executive the RTA seeks to provide a safe and reliable bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President Council, to make Dubai the world’s first transport environment for residents & and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler innovative city. Such initiative is coherent visitors of Dubai in keeping with the Dubai of Dubai, to endorse 2015 as a year of with the strategic goals and objectives Plan 2021. innovation in the UAE. In addition, to envisioned by the RTA in its strategic plan “The RTA has set up a team for studying the launch of a comprehensive national to contribute to the smooth mobility, safety the use of Autonomous cars (driverless strategy with the aim of ranking the UAE in and environmental sustainability. Such vehicles) to map out a strategy and a work

20 plan for addressing the latest developments “Autonomous cars (driverless vehicles) are the latest in this field, and identifying the standards developments of the global smart mobility systems, & specifications required in these vehicles and this technology is based on electric vehicles along with the needed infrastructure and fitted with smart sensors to enhance the safety safety legislations. In this context, the RTA element and avoid crashes. The smart vehicle has has approached a host of international multi operational techniques as it can operate within manufactures of smart vehicles to examine moving vehicles environment without necessarily technological alternatives on offer, and requiring connectivity with the control center. plan for real-life experiments for using such Examples of this include ceasing motion in the event vehicles in Dubai under the supervision of of traffic disruption, and perceiving the road condition the RTA,” continued Al Tayer. as well as traffic signals, and pedestrian movement “A delegation from the RTA has visited a among others. The vehicle can also be operated via number of European countries to examine an automated internet-based control system where the latest models undertaken by smart it can be fully controlled by a control center without cities across the globe in the field of smart requiring a driver. In this regard, smart vehicles can mobility. It also visited some businesses be programmed to lift passengers by moving in pre- and manufactures of smart vehicles to designated lanes to feed public transport stations and check the best international practices of link with vital centers with the aim of alleviating the this line of industry, and review the latest need of private vehicles, mitigating road congestions, studies & researches published by key easing the huge demand of parking spaces, and specialist international research centers eliminating environmental pollution & the waste in this regard. RTA’s delegation visited of resources. Smart vehicles will provide mobility World Expo Congress in Barcelona 2013 & solutions to all users, even those who are unable to 2014 which included a number of aspects drive, which will ultimately ease the mobility of Dubai relating to the use of smart driver-less residents and visitors, and improve on the mobility of vehicles to serve smart cities and other services on offer,” added Al Tayer. European cities,” explained RTA Chairman of the Board and Executive Director.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 21 OurProjects News

RTA opens new sector of First Rd linking JLT with

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) opened a new sector of the First Al Khail Road linking the JLT with Discovery Gardens as part of the final Phase II of the Parallel Roads Improvement project. The new sector complements the first sector opened last October; marking the opening of Qarn Al Sabkha Road linking Sheikh Zayed Road at the JLT junction (5.5 Interchange) with the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road nearby Al Houdh R/A.

Explaining the details, Engineer Maitha Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. It signal, which would be controlled on bin Udai, CEO of RTA Traffic and Roads will also offer a new ingress and egress the basis of vehicle density in the area, Agency said: “The opening of this vital to Discovery Gardens besides the sole meanwhile the existing light signal will be road sector will ease the mainstream existing entrance/exit linking the district synchronized with the traffic flow on the traffic flow to Discovery Gardens heading with the Sheikh Zayed Road. bridges constructed at the JLT over the new towards the Sheikh Zayed Road and “The RTA has also erected a new light underpass (Qarn Al Sabkha Road) linking

RTA opens new bridge at Al Qudra - Lehbab Road

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) opened a new bridge at the intersection of Al Qudra Road with Lehbab Road comprising 3 lanes in each direction with the aim of easing the traffic flow from the Emirates Road to Seih Assalam. The opening of the bridge comes shortly after the opening of Al Qudra Road extending 12 km from Jebel Ali - Lehbab intersection to Bab Al Shams R/A.

22 Sheikh Zayed Road and Mohammed bin Zayed Road,” she noted. “An internal Road at the Discovery Gardens would be constructed to meet the needs of residents and visitors of the area, and enhance the existing roads network. A new signalized junction will be installed to streamline the traffic flow and a new R/A would also be opened in the neighbourhood,” added the CEO of RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency. The above project is part of parallel roads improvement phases in Dubai, and RTA’s master plan for upgrading roads, bridges, crossings and tunnels with the aim of easing the traffic flow in various parts of the Emirate. It is also manifestation integrated solutions for roads as well in place, and capable of serving the needs of RTA’s strategic plan for upgrading the as land & marine transit networks. Such of demographic growth and encouraging infrastructure of roads & mass transit solutions are required to be safe to use, the development and investment drive systems in Dubai, and developing matching to the sweeping development in the Emirate.

Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of RTA’s on the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. said Maitha who noted that a 2 kilometer- Traffic and Roads Agency explained the “The design of the bridge focused on long diversion is still in place due to the importance of this constructed bridge: “It is ensuring highest safety levels for all road undergoing construction works in vehicles, an importance stemming from the vitality of users following the observation that some camels and horses crossing on Al Qudra Al Qudra Road. This road has become a key motorists exceed the specified speed Road; which is set for opening by the end traffic hub for the traffic movement inbound limits, especially in the sector from Jebel Ali of next March.” Such endeavors, continued from Jumeirah via Umm Suqeim, then Lehbab junction up to Bab Al Shams R/A. Maitha, would contribute to realizing the passing through the flyover of Al Khail Road Accordingly. A special lane on this bridge vision of the RTA in providing Safe and to link with the Arabian Ranches Interchange has been dedicated for cyclists crossing,” Smooth Transport for All.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 23 Projects

RTA issues guideline for Oasis Project as prelude to tendering this May

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has issued a guideline detailing all information about the Union Oasis project that the RTA intends to undertake in partnership with the private sector. The move is a prelude to putting the project to tender this May where potential developers will be invited to invest in the project that comprises the construction of towers above the Union Metro Station on an area spanning 15 thousand square meters.

Abdullah Yousef Al Ali, CEO of RTA’s Rail Agency, said: “The main objective of issuing this guideline is to highlight all particulars and commercial ends of the Union Oasis project, including a Letter of Intent to participate in the auction.” He pointed out that interested developers and investors could obtain such guidelines by signing in to the project webpage through RTA’s website www.rta.ae. “The Union Oasis Project is the first manifestation of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) concept in the region; which promises to be a prominent destination for residents and visitors of Dubai. This vital project focuses on developing the Union Square by providing an exquisite environment including residential units, offices, pedestrian- friendly streets, landscapes, vital utilities and retail outlets among others,” added Al Ali. “The anticipated high population density of the project would support RTA’s drive towards encouraging the people to use mass transit modes, and will also serve requirements; which would contribute to competitive bidding process to be rolled as a comfortable, enjoyable avenue the rejuvenation of Deira neighborhood,” out this May. The private sector will be for residents and visitors alike. The RTA he continued. able to marry its extensive development & will adopt the world’s best practices in “The Union Oasis Project would be operational expertise with the commercial designing transit-oriented communities, implemented on the basis of Public- acumen to identify the concept and key and seek to develop such communities Private Partnership (PPP) between the developmental aspects of the project,” in the context of the local and regional RTA and a private developer selected in a concluded the CEO of RTA Rail Agency.

24 Our Services

Fatality rate hits zero in 2014 RTA makes stunning achievements in school transport sector in Dubai The Public Transport Agency at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) revealed that the School Transport in Dubai has seen a remarkable growth during the period 2011-2014 in terms of the number of students lifted, buses deployed and bus conductors appointed.

“The number of students lifted by school to the awareness transport services has increased by campaigns launched 14% between 2011 and 2014,” said Adel by the RTA from Mohammed Shakri, Director of Planning time to time,” added & Business Development at RTA Public Shakri. Transport Agency. “At the top of Shakri attributed this substantial growth to achievements made The economic aspect is reflected in the time the implementation of the School Transport by the school transport sector in Dubai is saved by parents in lifting their wards to and Law issued by Dubai Executive Council. The that the number of fatalities dropped to zero from schools, which is estimated in the order Law, he noted, had been initiated by the RTA, in 2014; which is good news indicative of of 24,689 hours, saving in fuel consumed by which caters to overseeing its implementation the growing awareness of all stakeholders in vehicles equivalent to 20,095 hours of travel, at the highest international standards of the school transport sector in Dubai i.e. the RTA, and lending support to the school transport industry. In this regard, the RTA had entered in Emirates Transport, school managements, industry nation-wide. partnership agreements with several reputed school transport companies, parents and The Law has also had an environmental & specialized international entities such as students” he explained. dimension in reducing the carbon footprint the American NAPT with which the RTA had The implementation of the School Transport resulting from vehicles by as much as 22,000 teamed in holding an international congress Law has brought about a whole host of kg in four years. about school transport in Dubai in 2013. benefits and positive impacts that have The educational aspect of the law is seen “The implementation of the School Transport several social, environment, economic in raising the public awareness by running Law has played a pivotal role in securing the and educational implications. The social awareness campaigns involving more than safety of students of different ages served dimension resulted in stimulating various 850 field visits to public and private schools. by school transport services. The sound community segments to embrace the culture The RTA is mulling the introduction of new implementation of the Law contributed to of using mass transport, higher confidence technologies in the field of school transport cutting the number of accidents recorded in the school transport system, and more such as placing sensors underneath bus seats in this sector by 10%, thanks to the fruitful attention to the disabled as reflected in to send cautionary signals in case a child is left cooperation between the RTA, school designing and deploying 50 buses to assist behind on board. Such a measure would assist managements, school transport companies the safe & smooth mobility of this community in boosting the protection of children and and parents. This cooperation is reflected segment. The social impact has also resulted ensuring their security and safety in transit. in the compliance of school managements in the soaring numbers of school bus drivers Additionally, an online educative module and school transport companies with the by 36% (between 2011 and 2014), and the is being developed and safety tips will be provisions and stipulations of the School number of school bus female conductors by diffused by means of cartoons simulating Transport Law and their positive response 99% during the same period. issues related to child safety.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 25 Our Services RTA to report offences against unlicensed semi- trailers starting from April

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai will start issuing offences to semi-trailers bearing no registration numbers, be it owned by individuals, firms or public entities starting from April 15th this year. The move is part of RTA’s endeavours to protect road users against accidents caused by semi-trailers that fall short of the required standards.

Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Licensing of their semi-trailers at service centers: “The licensing and registration of semi- Agency said: “The RTA continuously Tamam Al Ghandi, Tasjeel Jebel Ali, Tasjeel trailers will be required once every three seeks to realize its vision of providing Al Warsan, and Al Shirawi Enterprises. years for individuals, but the companies safe and smooth transport for all through This would ensure that such machinery have to undergo tests annually to ensure implementing several initiatives & is roadworthy and have no accidents or their road worthiness compared with the services. We have set plans for completing offences reported against them. The RTA means and different techniques; which is registration & licensing of semi-trailers would start an inspection campaign next slightly different. to ensure their roadworthiness and April to report violations against illegal compatibility with traffic safety stipulations. semi-trailers.” The registration is accountably an evidence “The RTA has visited several workshops of ownership of such machinery by the where semi-trailers are fabricated to furnish concerned entity. personnel with the key specifications “Since the launch of numbering & and technical standards that have to registration service of semi-trailers last be compatible with the international September, the RTA completed the standards. It has also distributed booklets licensing of 118 semi-trailers. Therefore, we to all endorsed service providers in a bid to call upon the concerned parties to expedite sensitize the public about the importance the testing, numbering and licensing of licensing semi-trailers.

26 RTA to report offences against unlicensed semi- trailers starting from April

Issue No. 82 April 2015 27 Our Services RTA rolls out initiatives to bring happiness to employees, customers The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a number of initiatives aimed to bring happiness to internal customers (employees of various affiliated sectors & agencies) and external customers (such as individuals and entities) with whom the RTA is engaged in several projects and initiatives.

“The initiative of bringing happiness to internal services at the Services Support employees covers all RTA’s employees Center, and the opening of new smart comprising about 3500 employees and channels to receive service requests via 2896 drivers of public transport means,” smart apps for smart gadgets over and measuring employees’ satisfaction rating, according to Mansour Rahma Al Falasi, above the customary communication enabling employees to express their views Director of Administrative Services at RTA channels such as the e-mail and Call Center; & make suggestions, and carrying out Corporate Administrative Support Services which is working 24/7,” continued Al Falasi. improvement initiatives based on intensive Sector. “This initiative is undertaken in the context field studies,” he added. “The main objective of this initiative is to of the Administrative Services Department’s “The RTA has developed a new innovative bring more happiness to internal & external keenness to uplift the caliber of services to mechanism for receiving customer customers alike through offering them top rank it at par with RTA’s strategy of bringing feedbacks named Perception Points under class services to win their satisfaction. Our happiness to customers and fully migrating the innovation culture patronized by the set target is to achieve a 90% customers’ to smart services mode. RTA. It also seeks to diffuse the culture satisfaction rating as per the highest “The initiative also includes maintaining of excellence in service delivery; which international standards in place. continuous communication with various involves the improvement of 163 key and “To realize the objectives of these initiatives departments of the RTA through a host subsidiary services,” concluded the Director we are working towards automation of of specific and effective channels such as of Administrative Services.

RTA rolls out new communication channel for passenger transport-related services The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has introduced a new channel for communicating with customers, offering them passenger transport-related services through deluxe vehicles (limos) or taxis as well as services provided to taxi plate holders.

Abdullah Al Mahra, Director of Monitoring therefore recently transferred services related Planning & Business Development Department and Franchise at RTA Public Transport Agency, to passenger transport by deluxe vehicles at the Public Transport Agency. RTA’s Customers said: “The RTA is seeking to open a diverse (limo), taxis in addition to services provided Service Center at Deira Traffic premises, has cast of channels for customers in a bid to to taxi plate holders from the Monitoring and been designated for offering these services.” streamline their transaction processing in a Franchise Department at the Public Transport The services transferred to Customers Service way befitting their needs and responding to Agency to the Commercial Transport Activities Center at Deira Traffic premises relating to the their requirements of all RTA services. We have Department at the Licensing Agency, and the Commercial Transport Activities Department

28 RTA’s ‘Here to Help’ initiatives covers 511 centers for renewal of driving licenses, vehicle ownerships

Since the launch of ‘Here to Help’ initiative (Labaih), it has achieved remarkable results in terms of simplifying the renewal of driving licenses and vehicles registration. The initiative has beefed up the service delivery channels and service booths through insurance companies and eye testing centers (Trusted Agents), where the number of entities coordinating with the RTA has mushroomed from only 17 centers in Dubai to as much as 511 centers throughout the UAE.

Sultan Al Marzouqi, Director of Drivers in order to save time and effort of our “The UAE is the first country worldwide in Licensing, RTA’s Licensing Agency, said customers interested in renewing their renewing vehicle ownerships and driving “The ‘Here to Help’ initiative is a pioneering driving licenses and vehicles ownerships by licenses through smart phones as certified initiative in providing world-class public streamlining and processing transactions by the International Commission for Driver licensing services through our trusted and procedures in simple steps and less Testing (CIECA); an entity concerned with agents. Through this initiative, we were time. This resulted in reducing traffic the affairs of motorists which has 35 member keen on increasing the number of service congestion and exhaust pipe emissions, countries, and the International Motor delivery channel from a single source which would have otherwise been Vehicle Inspection (CITA); an entity concerned (RTA’s Head Office) to a variety of channels associated with customers’ movement with vehicle affairs, which has 53 member including RTA’s website, Call Center, smart to complete such transactions, besides countries. This means that our efforts in apps, smart kiosks and traffic departments cutting the service delivery time from 10 this regard have received international all over the UAE. We have also increased minutes to about 3 minutes and reducing acclamation and created a pioneer standing the number of insurance companies and customer waiting time from 20 minutes to thanks to the paramount attention accorded eyesight testing centers to 511 centers about 7 minutes. to all aspects of customers service.”

at the Licensing Agency. Passenger transport “To Whom It May Concern” certificates relating (Ownak), renewing company agreement, via taxis include: licensing an activity, to company details based on the number releasing auctions for operating taxis (plates registering a new vehicle, registering a of vehicles, changing a trading name of an + Ownak), monthly report about operational replacement vehicle, renewing a driver establishment, endorsing the registration of performance indicators, and the monthly license, issuing a waiver, withdrawing/ a new deluxe vehicle, and withdrawal of a franchise fee (taxis). Services relating to adding a partner, registering private vehicles, partner. transporting passengers on deluxe vehicles endorsing an ad on taxis, settling monthly Services related to the Planning & Business (limo) include delay in paying fines, vehicle replacement fines, and requesting a letter Development Department at the RTA comprise operational fee, and delay penalty pertinent addressed to the Ministry of Labour. taxi owners’ activity, which include procedures to contract renewal, issuing replacement of a Regarding the transportation of passengers of receiving new taxi plates, No Objection lost or damaged contract, and endorsing third on deluxe vehicles (limos), the services Certificate, issuing ownership certificate of a party contracts. include activity permit, abolishing an existing taxi plate, and transferring the monthly income It is noteworthy that the timing of running company, replacement fine, transporting of a taxi plate. Services relating to transporting these services at RTA’s customer service center passengers from and to Dubai Airports, and passengers by taxis include practicing patients at Deira conforms to the official working hours other Emirates, franchise fees. It also includes transport activity in non-emergency situations from 07:30 am to 02:30 pm.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 29 Our Services

The Center returns a toddler forgotten in a taxicab RTA’s Call Center receives about 2.68m calls in 2014 The Call Center at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has received 2,683,993 calls last year. The response time of 20 seconds per call covered 80% of these incoming calls; which indicates that 2,106,252 calls have been responded to within the targeted Center and RTA customers whose inquiries, marks a remarkable increase of as much time. The Center has also suggestions, complaints and other requests as 21% compared to the figure recorded received 51,239 reports are well attended to. It also reflects the in 2013 which was 2,210,298 calls. The about Lost & Found items diversity of services provided by the RTA to incoming calls last year reached 1,166,783 highlighted by the reunion the public,” said Ahmed Mahboob, Director calls relate to the Public Transport Agency; of a young baby forgotten of Customers Service at the RTA. 506,331 calls relate to the Licensing by family member in a “The number of calls received by the Center Agency; 161,778 calls relate to the Rail taxicab. During the past in 2014 clocked 2,683,993 calls, which Agency; 156,193 calls relate to the Traffic year, the Center processed 20,244 transactions, and Valuable Items Found Madinati reports topped The tally of Lost and Found items last year comprises: 5,313 19,772 reports. mobile phones; 2,983 suitcases; 1,390 wallets; 685 passports; 511 keys; 321 cameras; 303 laptops; 301 glasses; 292 expensive “The rising number of incoming telephone clothes; 267 official documents; AED288,700; $57,230; €6,000; calls handled by the Call Center (8009090) gold & jewelry (to the worth of AED550,000); and precious items is indicative of the interaction between the (to the tune of $100,000).

RTA endorses replacing 42 public buses by modern Euro 5 buses The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has endorsed the replacement of 42 public buses by modern buses. The bus fleet of the Public Transport Agency comprises 1300 buses of the highest global standards comprising Mercedes, Volvo, Solaris, Vidal, and M.A.N makes which operate 18 hours a day to provide mass transit services.

These buses are fitted with engines context of a master plan for curbing pollution Transport Agency stated that the use of compatible with the European Standards resulting from vehicle exhausts, and making vehicles fitted with Euro 5 compatible (Euro 5) featuring Selective Catalytic vehicles in Dubai more environment- engines contributed to conserving the Reduction (SCR) and Exhaust Gas friendly, particularly the fleet of public buses. environment through curbing the harmful Recirculation (EGR) technologies under the Dr. Yousef Al Ali, CEO of RTA’s Public emissions of fuel and carbon. “This initiative

30 & Roads Agency; 100,862 calls relate to RTA rolls out the Corporate Technical Support Services new plates for Sector; 81,597 calls relate to the Dubai Taxi Corporation; 11,181 calls relate to the motorbikes on Corporate Administrative Support Services Newly designed number Sector; and 268 calls relate to the Strategy plates for motorbikes were and Corporate Governance Sector,” released on February 22nd. elaborated Mahboob. Owners of motorbike will “The number of reports relating to Lost be required at the time of & Found items in taxicabs amounted to renewing registration to 51,239 reports in 2014 compared with replace their old plates 48,459 reports recorded in the preceding by new ones featuring an year, and the rate of locating these lost enhanced design adding a items is quite significant, even surpassing touch of beauty & exclusivity the international rate in this regard. At the to this transit mode. top of the list of lost items found by the Call Center is an infant who was left by a taxi “The RTA is always keen to revamp its service time of registration renewal. For the first rider upon returning from to offering, and introduce innovative techniques time motorbike plates will include the plate a hotel. Taxi riders are urged to keep their to match expectations and aspirations of bearing the number 1,” explained Nimaat. taxi receipts as they facilitate locating their various community segments,” commented “The new motorbike plates were released lost items so quickly. Mohammed Abdul Karim Nimaat, Director of on February 22 and the price set for the new “Licensing transactions processed by Vehicle Licensing at RTA’s Licensing Agency. plate is AED25 over and above the normal the Call Center in 2014 amounted to “Since the number of motorbikes registered renewal fees. The new plates were issued 20,244 transactions compared to 12,413 in Dubai is quite sizable amounting to as at the time of renewing registration of the transactions in 2013 recording in the much as 26 thousand bikes, we opted to add existing motorbikes, registering new ones, process a 63% rise. Madinati reports clocked a touch of beauty & exclusivity to them by or in replacement of lost or damaged plates. 19,772 reports in 2014 representing a introducing newly designed plates branded Replacement of plates would be possible 12% rise over the figure recorded in the by an innovative design of a motorbike through the following centers: Al Mumayaz preceding year which was 17,702 reports,” inserted besides the number and the code. at Mizhar Aswaq, Al Mumayaz at Al Barsha said Mahboob in a concluding remark. Owners of motorbikes will be required to Mall, ENOC Tasjeel at Al Barsha, and ENOC replace their old plates by new ones at the Tasjeel at . RTA endorses replacing 42 public buses by modern Euro 5 buses

is taken in implementation of directives of commitment to conserve lives, & properties, and capable of meeting the rising demand the government calling for conserving the environment and natural resources. In for mass transit means in the Emirate.” “The environment and reducing the use of energy addition to improving the occupational objective of this measure of replacing old across the nation due to its importance health & public safety levels, and utilizing public buses by new ones fitted with engines for the public health and all development technologies to curb the pollution rates compatible with Euro 5 standards epitomizes projects. “The RTA intends through this resulting from various transit means,” the initiative of the Dubai Government initiative to create a safe, clean, attractive continued Al Ali. advocating the deployment of green and sustainable environment befitting the “The RTA is making every effort to bring about vehicles for a cleaner and more sustainable profile of the UAE in general and Dubai a shift in the infrastructure of mass transit environment,” concluded the CEO of Public Emirate in particular in the context of its systems to render it environment-friendly Transport Agency.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 31 Statistics Metro Passenger Trips for February 2015 Abu Baker Al Siddique

Palm Deira Salah Al Din Baniyas Square Union Dubai Airport Free Zone Deira City Centre Al Ghubaiba GGICO Al Qusais Airport Terminal 1 BurJuman Airport Terminal 3 ADCB Al Ja liya Dubai Healthcare City Prepared by: Emirates World Trade Centre Manal Al Rayes Creek [email protected] Financial Centre

Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall

Business Bay 365,270 Rashidiya 174,243 Emirates 107,136 Airport Terminal 3 172,958 Airport Terminal 1 Noor Bank 200,204 GGICO 561,998 Deira City Centre FGB 568,465 Al Rigga 564,023 Union (Red Line) Sharaf DG Dubai Internet City 551,012 BurJuman (Red Line)

Nakheel 92,086 Etisalat 468,442 ADCB

DAMAC PROPERTIES 163,516 Al Qusais 329,045 Al Jafiliya Jumeirah Lakes Towers 275,166 Dubai Airport Free Zone 301,153 World Trade Centre

Nakheel Harbour & Tower 181,839 Al Nahda 260,885 Emirates Towers

Ibn Battuta 372,014 Stadium 227,506 Financial Centre 141,202 Al Qiyadah 538,156 / Dubai Mall Energy 231,194 Abu Hail 357,583 Business Bay 331,490 Abu Baker Al Siddique 369,026 Noor Bank 344,180 Salah Al Din 253,324 FGB 220,070 Union () 477,397 Mall of the Emirates Jebel Ali 506,374 Baniyas Square 189,571 Sharaf DG 237,144 Palm Deira 387,262 Dubai Internet City 176,557 Al Ras 137,928 Nakheel 386,787 Al Ghubaiba 313,280 DAMAC PROPERTIES Green lin 565,097 Al Fahidi 392,976 Jumeirah Lakes Towers

Red lin 287,521 BurJuman (Green Line) 21,267 Nakheel Harbour & Tower 362,142 Oud Metha 330,520 Ibn Battuta Station 132,880 Dubai Healthcare City 14,078 Energy Interchange station 26,258 Al Jadaf 139,068 32,171 Creek 111,725 Jebel Ali Airport 5,065,688 Total 8,885,501 Total

The Comparison of Metro Passenger Trips for 3Years 6898082 2013 3625107 10523189 8310798 2014 4559173 12869971 Green lin Red lin 8885501 Total 2015 5065688 13951189 0 3 6 9 12 15 Community Safety Metro Passenger Trips for February 2015 Abu Hail Al Qiyadah Abu Baker Al Siddique Palm Deira Stadium RTA, Shaikha Rawdha Learning Salah Al Din Baniyas Square Al Nahda Al Ras Union Initiative launch student-oriented Al Rigga Dubai Airport Free Zone Deira City Centre Al Ghubaiba GGICO Al Qusais traffic contest Al Fahidi Airport Terminal 1 Etisalat BurJuman Airport Terminal 3 The contest is themed ‘Our ADCB Oud Metha Al Ja liya Dubai Healthcare City Emirates World Trade Centre Al Jadaf Safety is our Responsibility’ Creek Emirates Towers Rashidiya Financial Centre Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with the Learning 365,270 Rashidiya Business Bay Skills Development Initiative, supported by Shaikha Rawdha Bint Ahmed Bin 174,243 Emirates Juma Al Maktoum, has launched a traffic contest aimed at nurturing students’ 107,136 Airport Terminal 3 innovative & creative skills, and orienting them towards boosting the traffic 172,958 Airport Terminal 1 Noor Bank safety in Dubai Emirate. 200,204 GGICO 561,998 Deira City Centre FGB Engineer Maitha Bin Udai, CEO of Traffic since the general trend of Dubai 568,465 Al Rigga Mall of the Emirates and Roads Agency, RTA, underlined the Government focuses on supporting smart a 5 to 10 student-team to realize the 564,023 Union (Red Line) Sharaf DG importance of partnership and cooperation applications, including the social media. objectives of the project. Supervisors of 551,012 BurJuman (Red Line) Dubai Internet City among all public and private entities This drive would uplift the traffic safety participating schools would be subject to 92,086 Etisalat 468,442 ADCB Nakheel in developing programs and initiatives level in the local community and diffuse induction workshops about the contest. 163,516 Al Qusais 329,045 Al Jafiliya DAMAC PROPERTIES targeting children and students to train the traffic culture and related issues among Team members would strive to develop Jumeirah Lakes Towers 275,166 Dubai Airport Free Zone 301,153 World Trade Centre them on innovative & creative concepts 2nd & 3rd cycle students in Dubai schools. their observation skills and sense of Nakheel Harbour & Tower 181,839 Al Nahda 260,885 Emirates Towers in support of positive traffic attitudes in It will also nurture creative thinking skills responsibility by running events using 372,014 Stadium 227,506 Financial Centre Ibn Battuta Dubai. Bin Udai hailed the key role played among students by directing their ideas their communication skills to deliver the 141,202 Al Qiyadah 538,156 Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall by Shaikha Rawdha Bint Ahmed Bin Juma towards reducing traffic accidents rates. idea,” continued Mahfoudh. Energy 231,194 Abu Hail 357,583 Business Bay Al Maktoum in supporting learning skills In this context, Dr. Najeeb Mahfoudh, “The deadline for receiving participations 331,490 Abu Baker Al Siddique 369,026 Noor Bank and harnessing them in improving traffic General Manager of Learning Skills is 23 April 2015, and forms will be 344,180 Salah Al Din 253,324 FGB behaviors & safety in Dubai emirate in the Development Initiative, said: “The idea reviewed by judges on 26 April. Winners 220,070 Union (Green Line) 477,397 Mall of the Emirates upcoming years. of ​​the contest is based on engaging will be announced & felicitated Jebel Ali 506,374 Baniyas Square 189,571 Sharaf DG “The contest aims at realizing the objectives students in spreading traffic culture and in May 2015,” concluded 237,144 Palm Deira 387,262 Dubai Internet City of both parties through a joint strategic awareness among community members Mahfoudh. 176,557 Al Ras 137,928 Nakheel partnership. While Shaikha Rawdha’s via social media: Twitter, Facebook and 386,787 Al Ghubaiba 313,280 DAMAC PROPERTIES initiative seeks to furnish students with Instagram. Various creative activities, such Green lin 565,097 Al Fahidi 392,976 Jumeirah Lakes Towers learning skills of the 21st century, the RTA as writing plays and novels or any other 287,521 BurJuman (Green Line) Red lin 21,267 Nakheel Harbour & Tower joins hands by seeking to disseminate innovative fieldwork, would be sought by 362,142 Oud Metha 330,520 Ibn Battuta knowledge and inculcate ideas relating the contest. Such concepts are required Station 132,880 Dubai Healthcare City 14,078 Energy to raising traffic awareness amongst to be encapsulated into awareness Interchange station 26,258 Al Jadaf 139,068 Danube students,” said Bin Udai. messages disseminated through the social 32,171 Creek 111,725 Jebel Ali “The idea of ​​the contest is based on media, targeting community members, Airport 5,065,688 Total 8,885,501 Total capitalizing on the growing social media- particularly students and youngsters.” savvy students with the aim of engaging “We have started distributing the The Comparison of Metro Passenger Trips for 3Years their attention and skills in traffic awareness competition guide, subscription forms 6898082 issues. The contest tries to make student and promotional posters in Dubai schools, 2013 3625107 10523189 activities interactive and nontraditional, and we expect that each school to form 8310798 2014 4559173 12869971 Green lin Red lin Issue No. 82 April 2015 8885501 Total 33 2015 5065688 13951189 0 3 6 9 12 15 Activities

RTA briefs Sudanese delegation on standards of nomination to Awards of Dubai Government Excellence Program

A delegation from the Ministry of Planning in the Republic of Sudan, has recently visited the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to review the standards adopted by the RTA in nominations to the Awards of the Dubai Government Excellence Program, as part of a tour by the visiting delegation to a number of Dubai Government entities for this purpose. The delegation also visited RTA Projects Gallery exhibiting images, models and history depicting the achievements made as well as plans of the RTA.

Ms. Shaikha Al Jarman, Director of and expressed her delight with the visit best standards of corporate business Development and Corporate Performance for sharing expertise and knowledge in and diffusing the culture of excellence at the RTA, welcomed the visiting delegation this field. “The RTA is committed to the by adopting certain mechanism for

RTA delivers lecture about international trends of customer’s happiness & satisfaction The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has delivered an elaborate lecture about customer services and all aspects related to this vital field in the context of its endeavors to achieve a 7-star rating. The event Human Resources and Development Department organized the event as part of its strategy aimed at hosting specialist workshops and lecturers with the aim of raising the bar on the performance of RTA

employees at all levels. host of topics, including; understanding the differentiating between the customer’s The American Dr. John Chol, a specialist importance of customers service, methods satisfaction and happiness. in customer’s service strategies delivered of measuring customers’ happiness, and the Kawther Kazim, Director of Human the lecture, an author of best sellers best means of delivering customers service. Resources and Development at the RTA about service quality, and a consultant of He also shed light on the best international said: “The RTA is in constant pursuit of mega companies such as Axiom Telecom, practices in this issue, especially in the light improving its human capital in the field Coca-Cola, Hertz Car Rental and other of the growing needs and expectations of of customer service through inviting top heavyweight businesses in economic & customers in the modern era due to the class specialists in this vital field in order service industries worldwide. He held spiraling growth and diversity of services. to familiarize with the best ideas and several sessions in which he addressed a He also touched on an important issue of keep pace with the international trends

34 RTA briefs Sudanese delegation on standards of nomination to Awards of Dubai Government Excellence Program

realizing this goal. The Dubai Government efficiency & productivity, besides driving nurturing a positive competitive spirit Excellence Program has opened the way for towards a positive competition with other amongst employees, organizational units, developing these standards, and the RTA government departments in the Emirate. committees and teams preparing for is always keen on enriching its corporate It also examined RTA’s Self-Assessment participation in the awards of the Dubai practices in keeping with its profile as one Initiative comprising a series of regular Government Excellence Program, as well of the biggest government entities in the reviews of practices, operations and as the Hamdan bin Mohammed Awards Dubai Government.” results made by government entities for Smart Government. Other aspects of The meeting started with a visual compared with the requirements of the Al Namoos Award were also examined presentation about the vision & mission Dubai Government Excellence Program including procedures of participation of the RTA as well as the organizational and developing of a master plan for and nomination, assessment process, chart of the Development and Corporate development & improvement based on the and the criteria for winning to ensure the Performance Department detailing sections results of reviews and assessment findings. worthiness of applying for the awards of the and responsibilities tasked to each of them. It also screened the corporate excellence Dubai Government Excellence Program. The presentation highlighted the policies; categories in the self-assessment initiative The delegation paid a visit to RTA Projects strategic drive, performance indicators and along with the implementation procedures Gallery comprising all achievements since assessment procedures adopted within in place. inception in 2005, and paid tribute to the RTA’s excellence setup and elucidated the The presentation also gave a briefing infrastructure built in Dubai Emirate as well underlying factors of adopting the awards of Al Namoos Award launched by the as the efforts made in this field, adding that model of the Dubai Government Excellence RTA, its categories and its objectives RTA’s model is worthy of being an example Program in fostering development, including enhancement development to be emulated judging by what is seen on sustained improvement, enhanced of the RTA. The briefing also showed the ground.

RTA delivers lecture about international trends of customer’s happiness & satisfaction

in this field. It commands a qualitative importance amongst RTA’s goals as epitomized in the third goal i.e. peoples happiness in manifestation of the directives of our prudent government. “The objective of the lecture was to make customers service culture a theme and driver of RTA’s implementation strategy i.e. realizing such an objective is no longer restricted to RTA’s front-end employees, but is rather encapsulated in all services delivered within and outside the RTA,” continued Kazim. Ahmed Mahboub, Director of RTA’s now has commanded a global niche in the and customers have become the backbone Customer Service said: “Customers service service-business industry across the board, of the success of any corporate entity.

Issue No. 82 April 2015 35