Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 1

Issue No.28, October 2010 The official Monthly Magazine of 's Roads and Transport Authority

01/11/201001/11/2010 PublicPublic TransportTransport DayDay FreeFree rideride onon Metro,Metro, BusBus andand WaterWater TaxiTaxi toto NolNol CardCard holdersholders Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 2 Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 3

Along the Roads and Transport Authority Dubai way Chairman of Board andExecutive Director Mattar Al Tayer Public Trans- port Day

We are honoured to extend our best greetings and congratulations to HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, on the safe return home follow- ing successful treatment abroad. May Allah extend the life of HH for the good of his country and countrymen. Marking this happy occasion and in the context of preparations for its annual anniversary, the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) was keen on encouraging citi- zens, residents and tourists to use mass transit modes and make them the favourite mobility option for the population in their daily movement across the city. From the Belgian capital Brussels and in the presence of a conglomeration of transport deci- sion-makers who gathered to celebrate the UITP 125th anniversary, RTA unleashed General Supervisor its Public Transport Day initiative to be held on the first of November next, to mark th Aysha Al Busmait the 5 anniversary of the RTA, where the , public buses and the Water Director of Customer Service Bus will be available for use free of charge for Nol Card and Ticket holders on that day. Editorial Consultant RTA opted to announce the Public Transport Day initiative from the UITP platform Maher Al Kayyali with the aim of boosting the role of the UAE in general and the Dubai Emirate in par- Managing Director ticular in supporting the initiatives that contribute to the improvement of the environ- Mohammed Al Munji ment, realizing the sustainable development, encouraging residents to use mass Editing Manager transit modes, and promoting RTA’s modern mass transit modes including the Khulood Al - Sharaf metro, buses and other marine transit means. Nashwan M. Al Taee The initiative also aims at increasing the occupancy of public transport means, enhancing transit multi-modal integration, boosting the leading role of the RTA in Art Director upgrading public transport, raising the awareness of various community segments Sara Al Mudharreb about public transport culture, showcasing the benefits & advantages accruing to Layout the individual whether through having psychological or physical relief associated Mohd Hassan Al Hafiz with a hassle-free mobility and reducing fuel and maintenance costs, let alone the Admin Coordinator fact that using public transport contributes effectively to cutting road crashes along Afaf Al Fayyad with the resulting fatalities, injuries and financial losses, besides reducing the car- Photography bon emissions from vehicle exhausts. Syed Zaheer Haidar To promote this initiative, the RTA has approached its strategic partners among government authorities, departments and agencies as well as private entities, to RTA Address ensure success of this initiative through encouraging their employees and clients to P.O.Box 118899 United Arab use public transport means. RTA will also kick off a promotional campaign inviting Tel: +971 4 2844444 all community segments to take part in this initiative and taste the benefits & advan- Fax: +971 4 2906661 tages of using mass transit modes in their travel across various districts of the Emi- www.rta.ae rate. Contact Us: Tel: +971 4 2844444 Mattar Al Tayer Fax: +971 4 2906661 Chairman of the Board and Executive Director Email: [email protected] Roads & Transport Authority Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 4

content

Cover Story

01/11/2010 Public Transport Day

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), announced the launch of ‘Public Transport Day’ initiative on November 1st, 2010 to commemorate the 5th anniversary of the RTA during which free metro, bus and water bus rides will be offered to all Nol Card holders. 6

Ministry of Labour’s delegation reviews RTA’s practices in communicating with internal & external customers

Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, Board Mem- ber of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has recently received a delegation from the Ministry of Labour headed by Dr. Aysha bin Bishr, Executive Director of Sup- port Services, with the aim of reviewing RTA’s expertise in several issues related to communication with the leadership and customers, powers delegation manual, and professional code of ethics. 10 9 Al Mulla: Hosting the Congress is a milestone in RTA’s drive

The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) is gearing up prepa- ration for holding the 59th International Association of Public Transport (UITP) Congress & Exhibition in Dubai in April 2011 despite the credit crunch currently engulfing the whole world, thanks to the consistent economy of the , according to Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, Chair- man of the Higher Organizing Committee of the 59th UITP Congress.

Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae 4 Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 5

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Cover Story

01/11/2010 Public Transport Day Free ride on metro, bus and water taxi to Nol Card holders

Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji: bers, explaining the benefits that accrue to individuals H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Execu- from using public transport such as the physical and psy- tive Director of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), chological relief, besides reducing the fuel and mainte- announced the launch of ‘Public Transport Day’ initiative nance costs let alone the fact that using public transport on November 1st, 2010 to commemorate the 5th anniver- modes effectively contribute to cutting traffic-related fatal- sary of the RTA during which free metro, bus and water ities and curbing carbon emissions from vehicle bus rides will be offered to all Nol Card holders. exhausts,” said Al Tayer. The announcement was made in a speech delivered by Al In his speech, Al Tayer invited all participants to attend the Tayer in the 125th anniversary of the International Associ- 59th UITP World Congress and Exhibition that will be held ation of Public Transport (UITP) held in the Belgian capi- in Dubai on 10-14 April 2011 under the them ‘Boosting tal Brussels under the auspices and in the presence of Public Transport … Action’. “When you arrive in Dubai HRH Prince Laurent of Belgium. The event was also next year, you will notice a marked change in our public attended by decision makers of public transport ministries transport network. We are now moving over 1 million pas- and authorities as well as representatives of companies sengers per day. The Dubai Metro which was opened on specialized in manufacturing and operating public trans- time (9/9/9) can pick you from right inside terminals 1 and port systems across the globe. 3 of Dubai International Airport. The , which is “Public Transport Day initiative, which features participa- now fully operational, is 52 KMs long with 5 KMs under- tion of various public and private entities as well as vari- ground and 4 underground stations. Since the start of ous segments of the community, aims at boosting the role operations, the number of passengers has been increas- of Dubai Emirate in supporting initiatives that contribute to ing rapidly till it reached a peak of 135000 passengers per the improvement of the environment and sustained devel- day and the total metro ridership since that the start of the opment, encouraging the public to use mass transit operation up to the beginning of September this year modes, promoting RTA modern transport network (metro, clocked about 30 Million passengers. buses and marine transit modes), increasing the ridership “The , which extends 23 km, will be operational of public in August 2011 including 18 Stations of which 6 are under- transport means, and enhancing the integration of multi- ground. The latest addition to our rail network is Al Safouh modal transport. The initiative also seeks to showcase the Tram which will be completed in 2013 extending 10 KM in leading role of Dubai Emirate in general and RTA in par- a centenary-free route with power feed supplied through a ticular in promoting public transport, diffusing the culture modern and safe ground cabling system, and all stations of mass transportation among various community mem- will be centrally air-conditioned.

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“The expansion of our Public Transport Network lars of investments in the coming 20 years. has also covered buses and marine trans- In the GCC countries alone, the portfo- port. We are now running a bus network lio of mass transit systems exceeds of 1500 buses travelling three hundred 25 Billion Dollars up till the year thousand KMs per day compared 2030. One example is the rail with 620 buses travelling only one project connecting GCC coun- hundred and eighty thousand KMs tries extending approximately per day in 2006. Our bus passen- 1274 KMs with an estimated ger-numbers have also increased cost of 8 Billion Dollars. Such from 96 Million per year in 2006 to programs require all stake- 130 Million passengers per year in holders to cooperate in provid- 2009 and over 80 Million Passen- ing their knowledge and expert- gers in the first 8 months of 2010. To ise to strengthen the role of Pub- ensure our bus passengers comfort, lic Transport in the region”. we have installed over 800 Air-Condi- In his speech, Al Tayer praised the tioned Bus Shelters. The Marine Transport huge role played by the UITP in sup- network has also been improved with the intro- porting Public Transport culture in the duction of the water bus and water taxi in addition to the Region since 2003. He cited that in 2006, the UITP renovation of traditional Abras. MENA Division Office was established in Dubai in cooper- “The most important aspect of Dubai's Public Transport ation with RTA. “Moreover, UITP held 7 conferences in Network is that different modes are fully integrated with the region focusing on public transport including the Metro easy transition between metro, buses and marine trans- Assembly and the first and second UITP MENA Con- port modes to achieve RTA's vision of "Safe and Smooth gresses. Of course, this is in addition to the numerous Transport for All" and one of our main strategic goals courses and publications issued by UITP in the past 7 "From Cars to Public Transport”. years,” he commented. “RTA is totally in line with UITP's strategy to double the In concluding his speech, Al Tayer welcomed the partici- Public Transport market share. Our strategic plan is actu- pants to the 59th UITP World Congress and Exhibition ally aims to raise public transport mode share from the that will be held in Dubai next year. “When you come to current 11% to 34% by the year 2020. Moreover, RTA Dubai you will see for yourselves that Dubai is set as the has very ambitious plans to build a comprehensive Metro regional center of integrated transportation. You will also and Tram Networks. To achieve these goals we devel- see that Dubai government has created an excellent busi- oped a framework for Public-Private Partnerships and the ness environment and a diversified economy that has government will endorse it and issue a law to govern attracted investors from all over . Dubai has been these arrangements. investing in emerging industries and technologies with “To be able to manage the Public Transport Network effi- innovative strategies in different sectors including avia- ciently, we have developed and implemented several tion, information technology, telecommunications, alu- knowledge transfer programs for the UAE nationals to minum production, commerce and tourism,” said Al Tayer ensure they are capable of running our network. These in a final remark. knowledge transfer programs focus on Rail and Bus operations and are run in cooperation with international companies specialized in these fields,” add Al Tayer. RTA Chairman of the Board and Executive Director further elaborated saying: “The improved infrastructure of public transport systems in Dubai Emirate is an example of what is happening in the UAE and other coun- tries of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The governments in the region are giving public transport higher importance in their master plans to ultimately reduce the semi-total dependence on private cars. The expected investments portfolio of Public Transport system Projects in the MENA Region will reach over 80 Billion Dol- Éμ«é∏H ÒeCG íaÉ°üj ôjÉ£dG

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Our News Licensing Agency inks strategic agreement with JAFZA

The Licensing Agency, Roads & Transport Authority trucks in an electronic format whereby Dubai Trade can (RTA) and Dubai Trade; a ’s company acting access them online. Licensing Agency will also be provid- as an electronic platform of external trade and logistical ing a full package of e-registration data and continue pro- operations in Dubai, have agreed to a common under- viding updates related to new registrations, amendments standing whereby RTA Licensing Agency will provide and cancellations on daily basis. Licensing Agency under- information about commercial trucks to Dubai Trade with takes to offer full support required during and after the the aim of completing their e-registration and streamlining designing and application of this service model, while the their ingress and egress from Port (The Port) and two parties pledged to carry out all works needed for Jebel Ali Free Zone Area (Free Zone). upgrading such services online in a way that serves the To this effect the two parties have recently signed a strate- purpose and objectives of this Agreement”. gic agreement in a form of Memorandum of Understand- “RTA is seeking to broaden and improve its relationships ing at the Head Office of the RTA with the aim of e-regis- with government, semi-government and private entities in tering trucks, exchanging information about commercial carrying out their projects, initiatives and plans as it is trucks movement, and minimizing the need for physical keen on enhancing the cooperation and the concerted presence of representatives of commercial transport com- efforts of all parties seeking to make effective contribution panies to the facilities of Jebel Ali Port for registering and in building the future of Dubai Emirate, and boosting its updating the data of their commercial trucks to enable reputed standing as a premier economic, business and them in principle to access the Port. tourist hub in the region,” continued Bahrozyan. The Agreement was signed on behalf of Licensing Agency For his part the Director General of Dubai Trade Mah- by its CEO , and on behalf of Dubai moud Al Bastaki expressed his deep delight with the sign- Trade by its Director General Mahmoud Al Bastaki, in the ing of this Agreement with Licensing Agency considering presence of several directors, managers and officials of its massive importance in easing the registration of com- both parties. mercial vehicles in a transparent and quick manner that Commenting on the Agreement, Bahrozyan said: “The enhances offering classy services to clients in this vital Agreement provides for Licensing Agency to provide infor- segment of commercial transport sector”. mation about registration of commercial trucks and light

Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae 8 Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 9

Ministry of Labour’s delegation reviews RTA practices in communicating with internal & external customers

Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, Board Member of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has recently received a delegation from the Ministry of Labour headed by Dr. Aysha bin Bishr, Exec- utive Director of Support Services, with the aim of reviewing RTA expertise in several issues related to communication with the leadership and customers, powers delegation manual, and professional code of ethics. In the outset of the meeting, Al Mulla welcomed the visiting delegation and stressed RTA’s keen attention towards boosting the cooperative rela- stakeholders, suppliers and the community, beside exchanging tions and sharing expertise with all strategic partners in various expertise and easing the procedures through effective communi- fields with the aim of upgrading the working environment, maxi- cation”. mizing the productivity, and improving the quality of services ren- Laila narrated the internal & external communication channels for dered to customers. H.E. the Chairman of the Board and Executive Director; which “RTA assigns considerable attention to customers and seeks to include the communication forum, RTA annual celebration, inter- win their satisfaction as they are the ultimate judge of the level of nal & external visits, and field visits to work sites, as well as par- services rendered to the public. Accordingly, RTA Customers ticipating in events, exhibitions & conventions, holding press & Council was formed and the Council used to hold preplanned reg- television interviews, RTA open employees day, and the commu- ular sessions with customers to get their feedbacks and com- nication channels through the intranet and the RTA-published Al ments on topics discussed in each session in an environment Masar Magazine. characterized by the freedom of expression; where all partici- Khalaf Khalaf gave explanation about RTA Powers Delegation pants can express their opinions and make contributions. Ses- Manual; which sets the scope and nature of powers delegated to sions held by Customer Council have contributed to revising sev- departments and sections with a view to improving, developing eral procedures and services based on the discussions and sug- and upgrading the efficiency of work procedures, identifying and gestions raised by customers,” said Al Mulla. classifying customer categories, establishing a standardized For her part Dr. Aysha in Bishr hailed the huge achievements powers reference guide, and setting a uniform and permanent made by the RTA in upgrading roads & transportation sector in method for specifying delegated powers and working under them. Dubai Emirate. She described RTA expertise as rich & pioneer; He stated six types of powers that include administrative & orga- which had and does boost the image of Dubai Emirate across the nizational powers, human resources powers, media powers, region. She expressed her admiration of the successful RTA dis- financial powers, contractual powers and technical powers. tinguished administrative experiment in the field of customer Sumaiya Belsilah explained RTA Work Ethics Charter; which cov- service, and the relationship with the strategic partners inside and ers key topics including fairness, professionalism, impartiality, outside the UAE. She also commended the approach adopted by general appearance, assuming responsibilities, justice & equali- HR & Development Department and the communication with the ty, conflict of interests, and working for the sake of others. She RTA senior leadership. also highlighted the Excellence Program; which aims at providing The meeting was attended from the RTA by Laila Mohammed instant reward to the creative students. Taher, Director of the Office of RTA Chairman of the Board and The delegation of the Ministry of Labour also reviewed RTA prac- Executive Director; Sumaiya Belsilah, Acting Director of Human tices in communicating with customers who interact with the RTA Resources & Development; and Khalaf Khalaf, Acting Director of to avail its services. Then Marwan Razzo gave a detailed expla- Development and Corporate Performance. From the Ministry of nation of the mechanism adopted to measure the quality of serv- Labour attended Aysha Belharif, Director of Labour Offices; Hus- ices provided by the RTA through customer satisfaction surveys, sein Ali, Director of Inspection; Zamzam Al Hamadi, Director of mystery shopper, customers council and customer relations man- Corporate Government Excellence; and Abdul Rahman Al Hama- agement system which enables the customer to deal with one di, Deputy Director of Government Communication. system only; either through RTA website, the Call Center or any Laila Mohammed Taher briefed the delegation on the mission other means. He added that the system contributed to minimizing and values of the Office of RTA Chairman of the Board and Exec- the time taken in responding to customer complaints and sugges- utive Director and said: “RTA communication program aims at tions received by the RTA. He concluded his remark by mention- realizing the strategic goal of Customers First. It also aims at ing that RTA issued mechanisms for complaints and suggestions; boosting the communication and the cooperative spirit between through which it responds to customer complaints within seven the senior leadership and employees as well as the internal com- days maximum, and to suggestions within 15 days maximum. munication among employees and external communication with

9 Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 10

Our News

RTA gears up preparation for hosting UITP Congress 2011 Al Mulla: Hosting the Congress is a milestone in RTA’s drive

The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) is gearing up preparation for holding the 59th International Asso- ciation of Public Transport (UITP) Congress & Exhibition in Dubai in April 2011 despite the credit crunch currently engulfing the whole world, thanks to the consistent economy of the United Arab Emirates, according to Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee of the 59th UITP Congress. Al Mulla confirmed that prepara- tions for holding this premier world event are up and running including coordination with all public depart- ments in Dubai Emirate through their representatives with the RTA towards offering the required facili- ties in their respective fields. The Organizing Committee is also hold- ing scheduled meetings regularly and coordination is in hand with the UITP officials to brief them on all matters related to the organization- al plans along with the procedures & arrangements for receiving the participating delegations according to the plans made, he stated. “Hosting this global event in Dubai culminates the worldwide repute and high profile of the Emirate in holding exhibitions & conventions in a variety of economic, business and service fields. It also manifests the huge confidence “The 59th UITP Congress & Showcase is a splendid pinned by the international organizations in the UAE as a opportunity for participants from all over the globe to whole and Dubai in particular,” said Al Mulla. showcase their products, services and solutions in this “Through holding this global event, RTA is seeking to field to visitors comprising business leaders, investors and reassert the standing of Dubai in public transport industry decision makers in ministries and authorities responsible worldwide by showcasing the strategic projects & initia- for regulating public transport sector particularly in Middle tives achieved in a record time compared to advanced Eastern and North African countries. Furthermore, the countries with experience spanning more than a century Congress will be a milestone in RTA drive to showcase its such as the European countries as well as the USA, achievements in integrated public transport, particularly Canada and Australia. RTA achievements are true mani- with the launch of the Dubai Metro last year and its sub- festation of the dedicated efforts made by the Dubai Gov- stantial contribution to attract new passengers to use pub- ernment to boost the profile of Dubai as a global econom- lic transport means, including buses and marine transit ic & business hub and a point of attraction for investors modes,” said the Chairman of the Higher Organizing and business leaders from all over the world, considering Committee of the 59th UITP Congress in a final remark. the huge significance of infrastructure in all fields, includ- Worth-mentioning that a senior delegation from the RTA ing public transport means, in supporting the business will take part in the celebrations of the 125th anniversary sector,” he continued. of the UITP to be held in Brussels in September this year.

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RTA ups customer satisfaction by motivating front-end employees as Best Customer Center Award is launched

The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has inaugurated gram in its 2008/2009 assessment cycle; which are the Best Customer Service Center Award across the RTA waiting time, service delivery time, employees perform- with the aim of boosting the satisfaction of RTA customers ance score sheet, results of the mystery shopper and the as well as front-end employees through motivating them results of customer service surveys,” said Dr. Aysha. to improve the level of services delivered by RTA Cus- “The assessment of the best customer service center will tomer Service Centers spreading across Dubai Emirate. be carried out on quarterly basis and the Supervisor of the Dr. Aysha Al Busmait, Director of RTA Customer Service winning Center will be decorated with a medal and the Centers, said the Award was primarily aimed at improving event will be showcased in a press release. RTA will & upgrading the level of services rendered by 9 Customer explore broadening the scope of the Award to cover Cus- Service Centers managed by the RTA judging by the per- tomer Service Centers run by service providers such as formance indicators and opinion rating as regards cus- vehicles testing & registration centers, driving institutes tomer service. and public transport stations,” she commented. “While developing the standards of the Award, due atten- “Other objectives of the Best Customer Service Center tion has been given to complement the motivation pack- Award include fostering a competitive environment among age endorsed by RTA Chairman of the Board and Execu- the employees of customer service centers, recognizing tive Director H.E. Mattar Al Tayer regarding the motivation the efforts made by these centers in serving RTA cus- of front-end employees, and the standards set for assess- tomers, and enhancing the productivity and efficiency of ing key improvement areas cited in the perimeters of Cus- employees,” said Al Busmait in a final remark. tomers Results of the Dubai Government Excellence Pro- RTA: Emiratization hits 11% at Serco; the Dubai Metro Operator

It was confirmed by Abdul Rida Abu Al Hassan, Acting launched several training programs in cooperation with CEO of the Rail Agency, The Roads & Transport universities & colleges of the UAE with the aim of train- Authority (RTA), that the number of Emirati employees ing & qualifying to work in public transport sec- working at Serco, the Dubai Metro Operator, currently tor, especially the rail transport. In the meantime, the tops 127 employees; which is 11% of the total work- fresh recruits taking up positions in the metro work force employed in the metro management & operation team of the company are subjected to intensive train- by the said Co. ing programs on the management, operation and main- “The percentage of the UAE citizens employed at top tenance of the metro. By the end of the training pro- management positions in Serco is as high as 40%, and gram they are required to pass the required tests which the percentage of those employed in intermediate empower them carry out their duties at the highest management positions is 28%. Emiratis work in various global standards in this field. Once the fresh employ- fields and sections of the Dubai Metro such as cus- ees clear the required tests, Serco Human Resources tomers service, trains operation & maintenance, sta- Department prepares their future career management tions management, ticket sales, public relations & mar- plans to enhance their abilities & skills in their respec- keting, administrative affairs, security of stations & tive fields”. trains, training and personnel,” said the Acting Director The Acting CEO of Rail Agency renewed RTA attention of Rail Agency. to adopt an effective mechanism to raise the percent- He continued: “According to the contract made with the age of Emiratis employed in the Rail Agency as well as RTA, Serco will seek to push Emiratization rate to 50- other RTA agencies. He underscored the importance 60% in the top and intermediate management positions of Emiratization which is considered as a top priority of by the end of 2014”. the RTA and an integral part of the RTA strategy in Commenting on training & qualifying more Emiratis to keeping with the current development in the quality of work in the metro in future Abdul Rida said: “Serco has services delivered to all segments of the community.

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Numbers x Numbers Al Tayer: Public transport users top 56m in the first half of 2010, 119m forecast by the year-end

Wide ranging electronic to systems to ease passenger mobility

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Execu- amounted to 4.8 million passengers approximately. The tive Director of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) monthly number of passengers using urban & feeder bus revealed that public buses have commuted about 56 mil- service during last March, April and May broke the barrier lion passengers in the first half of this year and it is fore- of 8 million passengers; as the number of passengers casted that the total number of public bus commuters clocked 8,723,000 in March. In April the number of bus would hit 119 million passengers by the end of the current commuters clocked 8,515,000 passengers, whereas the year. Al Tayer also revealed an increase in bus punctual- number reached 8,158,000 passengers in May, 7,973,000 ity as high as 62% coupled with a drop of accidents rate passengers in June, 7,784,000 passengers in February to 1 accident per 100 thousand kilometers done. Besides and 7,633,000 passengers in January. Metro stations that he announced that the bus depots at Al Khawaneej & feeder bus service showed increased ridership with pas- Jebel Ali would be opened in August this year. sengers count jumping from 622,000 in January to about Al Tayer elaborated: “Results of public bus service opera- one million in May. tional indicators revealed that in the first half of this year “RTA strategy has succeeded in improving the perform- the bus ridership increased to about 56 million passen- ance of public bus service, increasing bus operational effi- gers lifted in 1.8 million journeys, of whom 44 million pas- ciency, and reducing fuel consumption & maintenance sengers used domestic bus routes “urban transport’’ oper- costs. Public transport routes have been restructured in ating over 80 domestic routes covering various districts 2010 with a view to reducing the number of kilometers and towns of the Dubai Emirate. About 7 million passen- done, realizing operational efficiency, redistributing the gers used inter-city buses; which operate over 13 routes frequency of the service in urban routes and metro feeder covering main cities across the UAE Emirates. The num- service, and redistributing routes & buses on depots to ber of commuters using metro stations feeder buses reduce the wasted mileage. This strategy has contributed

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to reducing the number of kilometers done from 8,889,000 articulated and double-deckers. It also has a 24 bay for km last January to 6,600,000 km last June recording a accommodating 36 buses at a time for cleaning, washing drop of 25.7%. Equally the total number of journeys and refueling services. The depot has office buildings to dropped from 347,172 journeys last January to 246,393 house 50 employees and residential units for about 1200 journeys last June, recording a drop of 29%,” commented bus drivers employed at Public Transport Agency,” stated RTA Chairman of the Board and Executive Director. Al Tayer. Al Tayer further added: “The operational results in the first RTA Chairman of the Board and Executive Director fur- half of this year revealed that bus punctuality reached ther added that these projects were part of the compre- 62% and the safety & security indicator showed a drop in hensive plan developed by the RTA to enable bus mass the accident rate to 1 accident per 100,000 km; which is transit systems attract additional numbers of passengers attributed to the increased drivers training exposure, and with the aim of reducing traffic bottlenecks. “Such a plan higher traffic safety awareness amid drivers”. warrants deploying sophisticated buses with high quality, “In August this year, RTA will open the two bus depots at affordable cost and wide geographical coverage so as to Al Khawaneej and Jebel Ali. Al Khawaneej Depot has a contribute to the provision of integrated multi modal tran- parking yard for 284 buses; comprising 146 standard sit systems spanning public buses, Dubai Metro and buses and 138 articulated buses in addition to an electro- marine transport. The plan also envisages expanding the mechanical workshop capable of accommodating 20 construction of air-conditioned bus shelters & bus depots, buses at a time, a supply line for 13 buses at a time, a and developing electronic systems & programs such as cleaning and washing bay for 12 buses at a time and an the Journey Planner (Wojhati), Auto Vehicles Manage- administrative building for about 40 employees,” he con- ment, Unified Card, and Real Time Passenger Information tinued. “Jebel Ali Bus Depot has a capacity to accommo- System in addition to Sharekni and Awselni schemes,” date about 300 buses of the three bus types; standard, said Al Tayer in a final remark.

Licensing Agency raises AED12m by auctioning 92 distinguished number plates

The 68th Distinguished Number Plate Auction recently held by Licensing Agency, Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) at the Theatre Hall of RTA Head Office saw a higher public turnout compared to previous auctions, and yielded gross returns as high as 12 million dirham following the selling of 92 distinguished vehicle licensing plates. The Auction attracted participation of 120 bidders despite the current global economic melt- down and the fact that many of the targeted citi- zens and residents are currently spending their summer vacations abroad. Commenting on the results of the Auction, the CEO of RTA Licensing Agency Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan said that the Agency offered in the last Auc- leaflets in malls and car-parks, posting ads in the front tion several number plates highlighted by the two-digit of RTA web portal and other electronic means,” elabo- numbers (G 58 and H 91) and the three-digit numbers rated Bahrozyan. (J 333 and I 786). These numbers were instrumental in The Auction was associated with a mini blood donation escalating the competition among bidders considering campaign run by Vehicles Licensing Department in their iconic references to the cultures of some UAE res- cooperation with Blood Donation Center of the Dubai idents, he noted. Hospital with the aim of reflecting RTA corporate “The Auction was preceded by a marketing & promo- responsibilities towards various sectors of the commu- tional drive run by Vehicles Licensing Department in nity, including patients and injured persons admitted to conjunction with RTA Marketing & Corporate Commu- hospitals. nication Department that included a press release, Worth-mentioning that a Thai delegation visited Licens- adverts in Arabic, English and other languages spoken ing Agency on the eve of the Auction to benefit from by several UAE residents published in the daily local RTA expertise in organizing distinguished number papers, internal promotional e-mail campaigns to the plate auctions, and attended the Auction proceedings employees of government departments, distribution of to gain a practical exposure of the expertise gained.

13 Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 14

Our Services Dubai Taxi to revise Drivers’ Performance Assessment System

The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), Roads & Transport AED3,000; and Category (D): AED1,500 and the total Authority (RTA), has recently revised DTC Drivers Perfor- budget of the system is hiked to 29 million dirham. mance Assessment System through which drivers “Launching the new DTC Fleet Drivers Performance rewards and penalties score is measured by means of a Assessment System helps develop a number of objec- questionnaire circulated among drivers to probe their tives such as improving the level of services rendered by opinions about upgrading the system to make it more cabbies to the public, introducing an effective daily per- attractive. formance assessment system, reducing the number of The CEO of the DTC Abdul Aziz Malik explained the pro- accidents, improving & controlling the poor driver’s per- posed system saying: “The proposed system aims at formance, and rewarding distinguished drivers; where two achieving a 6% improvement in customer satisfaction and millions dirhams are set as annual rewards for this pur- mystery shopper results, a 5% improvement in drivers sat- pose”, added Malik. isfaction rating, a 2% improvement in the rate of traffic “We track the distinguished performance of drivers and accidents per 100,000 in which DTC drivers are involved, celebrate the efforts of these drivers such that they obtain an 11% reduction in traffic offences per 100,000 km, a a number of points against the efforts made towards reduction of complaints rate per 100,000 km, and a 2% improving the level of service offered to the public. In increase in the average daily revenue. doing so we are guided by a number of indicators such as “Rewards offered under the current system are 300 customer complaints, driver’s income, income per one km, dirham for all categories, but the financial sums of the four accidents, fines and black points,” said the CEO of DTC in categories will be upped as follows: Category (A): a final remark. AED10,000; Category (B): AED5,000; Category (C): Licensing Agency enhances its online services

RTA's Licensing Agency has commenced marketing its new online service delivery channel. Through the new service, driver's licenses and vehicle registrations can be renewed online and traffic fines can be paid all in a matter of minutes. Ahmed Bahrozyan, Licensing Agency CEO said: "As part of the online development, the Agency had established an individual home page called a "Dashboard" for every Dubai driver's license holder and vehicle registra- tion owner; approximately 1.2 million Dash- boards have been created." "A person's Dashboard gives them an overview of their driving status, such as their unpaid traf- of the service and was set up to give people a quick and fic fines, black points and whether vehicles are required complete picture of their driving status," continued for impounding," he added. Bahrozyan. "From the Dashboard a client can see details of their fines The updated online service was launched on May Even and as well as pay for the above services. The Dashboard though full marketing of the service only recently started, also provides an individual messaging facility. The Agency more than 600 clients a week were viewing their driving will use the message facility to provide general informa- status through their online Dashboard, before we started tion to clients, such as new service information, as well as marketing the service, Ahmed Bahrozyan said. The specific client information such as the person's vehicle Agency plans to roll out other services in 2010 that will registration is due." also be available from a person's online Dashboard page. "The online service is one of the Agency's most extensive People can see their online Dashboard by registering for developments to date. The Dashboard is just one feature Licensing Agency services at www.rta.ae.

Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae 14 Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 15

Dubai Taxi holds first Annual Vendors Gathering The event, held twice a year, offers a platform to receive feedbacks on DTC services & facilities

Dubai (United Arab Emirates): The Dubai Taxi Corporation of the faced and looking into ways and means of sorting them, in addi- Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has recently held its 1st tion to cementing the excellent partnership relations between us, Annual Gathering with vendors who represent various service and seeking to realize our joint objectives,” said Ali Mattar. and commercial sectors with a view to expanding the joint coop- During the Gathering the two parties reviewed the applicable pro- eration, boosting bilateral relations, opening up new communica- cedures & policies and highlighted the contractual matters, tender tion channels between the two parties, and probing customers procedures, bank guarantee, signing of contracts and memoran- satisfaction with the services offered by the DTC. da of understanding, the quality of services delivered, potentials The Gathering was attended by Ali Mattar, Director of Resources of improving relationships between the DTC and vendors, and and Support; Ammar bin Tamim, Director of Fleet Drivers Affairs; the key aspects enabling improvement of services and materials Mohammed Yousef Salih, Acting Director of Fleet Operations; supplied to the DTC, while ensuring that vendors do obtain the and several managers, specialists and senior employees of the required facilities. A questionnaire was also distributed to suppli- DTC. ers to probe their satisfaction and have their feedback on dealing In a welcome speech marking this event, Ali Mattar stressed the with the DTC; which covered the rating of dealing, services deliv- deeply rooted bilateral relations linking DTC with its strategic ered by Contracts & Purchasing Section, and the policies & pro- partners & vendors and highlighted the importance of these rela- cedures in place at DTC and affiliated facilities. tions in broadening and upgrading the services offered by the For their turn, vendors praised the efforts made by the DTC and DTC in the emirate to citizens, residents, visitors & tourists in the facilities extended to them at various facilities, particularly keeping with the high profile of Dubai Emirate as an economic with regard to contracts, purchasing and finance. They made regional center and an attractive venue to investors & tourists some comments towards improving and upgrading the proce- from all over the world. He confirmed that DTC would remain dures and policies and the need to accelerate the reviewing of committed to supporting the private sector and investors put contracts, and simplifying methods and standards of contracts more efforts towards identifying customer needs and require- and projects commissioning. ments. Ali Mattar lauded the results of this Gathering where all com- “This gathering, which is held biannually with DTC stakeholders ments have been taken into consideration by the concerned bod- and vendors, is a good opportunity for socializing and exchang- ies of the DTC with a view to improving and upgrading the quali- ing views and comments. It also offers broader fields and oppor- ty of services and facilities offered to vendors in the public inter- tunities for working as a single team in reviewing the difficulties est. RTA opens a key bridge at the 1st Interchange, Sh Zayed Rd The Roads & Transport Authority project extend 850 meters and the (RTA) has opened yesterday one of overall cost of the project, which is the key bridges in the 1st Inter- carried out by the Italian Salini Co., is change of Sheikh Zayed Road, link- around 617 million dirham,” said ing Street with the Financial Nabeel. Center Street, thus ensuring smooth “The significance of this project is flow of traffic inbound from the underlined by its vital location on Financial Center area to Al Safa Sheikh Zayed Road in the vicinity of Street towards Al Wasl Street as well and the Financial Cen- as providing a curved path leading ter. It provides these districts with a back to Sh Zayed Rd in the direction link with the main surrounding roads of Deira. such as Sheikh Zayed Road, Finan- Commenting on the event, Nabeel cial Center St. and Al Safa St. This Mohammed Salih, Director of Roads area is considered one of the busiest Department, RTA Traffic & Roads in Dubai with considerable impor- Agency, said: “By opening this phase, RTA has completed tance attached being on Sheikh Zayed Road and bordering almost 85% of construction works in the main bridges and these vital and important districts for Dubai in the fields of roads of the 1st Interchange at Sheikh Zayed Project; which is tourism, economy and investment,” added Al Nabeel. one of the key and most sophisticated projects currently It is worth-mentioning that the 1st Interchange on Sheikh undertaken by the RTA. Last May RTA opened bridges cross- Zayed Road allows seamless traffic movement in both direc- ing Sheikh Zayed Road providing free traffic flow from Al Safa tions of Al Safa Street and Financial Center Street, and links Street to the Financial Center Street and vice versa, and Sheikh Zayed Road as well as the Upper & Lower Decks of smooth traffic flow from Al Safa Street towards Dubai through the Financial Center Street. The project encompasses con- these bridges. All works in the project will be completed and struction of a tunnel linking the road passing at the back of fully opened for traffic by the end of December 2010”. Mazaya Center with the Road passing behind the high rises “The 1st Interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road is one of the overlooking Sheikh Zayed Road in addition to widening Al biggest interchanges in the Emirate, and the total length of Safa Street, and improving the intersections thereon up to Al bridges currently underway measures 3 km. Tunnels in the Wasl Road.

15 Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 16

Our Services Dubai Taxi opens technical support office for employees, customers

The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), Roads & Transport Authority fer, passport handing over and various administrative services has opened a technical support office at its Head Office to receive such as stationery & office supplies, maintenance & miscella- daily requests and inquiries from employees, suppliers and visi- neous fixtures, service terminal benefits, validation of systems tors with a view to easing the procedures, saving time & effort and and accessories, and technological services in addition to pro- streamlining the daily jobs of various sections. grams, reports and maintenance of systems and equipment. The “The objective underlying the opening of this office is to simplify other category of applications relates to customers and vendors the processing of daily requests and to provide technical support and covers releasing retained financial sums, releasing bank services to a variety of sections including: Human Resources, guarantees, processing local purchase orders, registration of Services, Procurement, Financial Affairs, Information Technolo- suppliers, buying tender documents, collection and delivery of gy, and Marketing & Media. This scheme is in fact one of the ini- cheques, processing the paying installments to clients and pro- tiatives contained in DTC operational plan for this year and as viding deferred payment coupon vouchers among others”, contin- such would pave the ground for realizing our strategic objec- ued Ali Mattar. tives,” said Ali Mattar Mohammed, Director of Resources and He stressed that the new Office would receive applications both Support, Dubai Taxi Corporation. electronically and manually pending the completion of automation “An internal work team has been formed comprising employees of all applications and online services project in the context of of various Sections of the Department to draw up the roles & DTC’s efforts to upgrade its e-services. All concerned bodies and responsibilities of this Office. During this probationary period, the employees of the DTC as well as customers and visitors had team will examine the feasibility of the scheme, the work been intimated on the opening of this Office. progress, receiving of requests and measuring of employees & The Director of Resources and Support expressed his thanks and vendors satisfaction. For this purpose, the entrance of the Recep- appreciation to everyone who contributed to the completion and tion has been customized to include all services and applications opening of this Office which would pay dividends in the near submitted besides making other partitions in the offices of DTC future. He called on visitors and vendors to deal with this office in departments and sections,” he added. following up all their transactions & applications, and direct any “Applications have been divided in categories that include: DTC inquiries or comments contributing to the improvement of the employee applications relating to salary certificate, salary trans- DTC services through this Office as well. Dubai Taxi Corporation launches new vehicles for special needs service, improves existing ones

The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), member in the Roads & Transport ice to the highest possible level such that it will have a definite posi- Authority (RTA) has launched two brand new vehicles for serving spe- tive impact on this community segment i.e. special need persons. cial needs and introduced structural improvements on others current- RTA and DTC are keen on upgrading the quality of services and facil- ly in service to cope with the modern requirements of serving this cat- ities offered to special need persons and their peers from all walks of egory. The launch was made in a ceremony held last Thursday at the community in view of the paramount importance of taxi sector and Heritage Village, Shindagha, in the context of RTA vision to provide its vital role in enhancing the tourist profile of the Emirate and its Safe & Smooth Transport for All. standing as a premier economic & business hub in the region. The ceremony, which included a group Iftar, was attended by the “DTC, in conjunction with the sponsors (Al Zarouni International CEO of Dubai Taxi Corporation Abdul Aziz Malik, Yousef Al Ali, Direc- Equipment Co., Dobowi Tires Co., Al Rustomani-Nissan Co., Kassab tor Fleet Operations, and Ali Mattar Mohammed, Director of Media and Advertising Co.), has carried out modifications and Resources & Support Department in improvements on the two vehicles currently in service in addition to several other RTA officials terms of external shape by introducing different and representatives of Dubai Police designs & images depicting the evolution and sponsors of this initiative (Al Fut- and old , and fitted taim Motors, Juma Al Majid, Hyundai, them with free-to-use services such a Al Zarouni International Equipment mini fridge for beverages and a mon- Co., Dobowi Tires Co., Al Rosta- itor to display DTC promotional ads mani-Nissan Co., Kassab Media and and footage” added Malik. Advertising Co.). “This service will be available round- Commenting on the initiative, the the-clock through placing orders CEO of Dubai Taxi Corporation with Booking & Dispatch Center (Tel: Abdul Aziz Malik said: “This initiative is part of 04-2080808) or by hailing a taxicab directly from the street. The fare the strategy of the RTA and DTC and their social responsibilities will be the same applicable to the van vehicles deployed in the fleet. towards various segments of the community, including special need Meter opening charge from 06.00 am to 10.00 pm will be 6 dirham for persons. It is also part and parcel of DTC’s operational plan for this direct hailing from the street or booking through the Booking & Dis- year aiming at boosting its social contribution, enhancing the level of patch Center, and 25 dirham in case the vehicle starts off the Dubai service rendered to customers, and ensuring effective marketing of International Airport. Meter opening charge from 10.00 pm to 06.00 these services. am will be 7 dirham for direct hailing from the street or booking “DTC is launching today two new vehicles to serve special need per- through the Booking & Dispatch Center, and 25 dirham in case the sons offered as gifts from Al Futtaim Motors and Juma Al Majid, the vehicle starts off the Dubai International Airport and the fare per kilo- sponsors of this community service, in the context of the ongoing part- meter done is 1.75 dirham. Car rental service will be available on this nership between the DTC and its permanent suppliers. Such sponsor- type of vehicles within Dubai Emirate only at a rate of 500 dirham per ship will contribute to improving and upgrading this community serv- 6 hours and 800 dirham per 12 hours.

Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae 16 Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 17

Community Saeety

RTA calls on motorists to shun over-speeding Maitha bin Udai: RTA adopts a new strategy for fixing speed limits on Dubai roads at world-class standards

The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) revealed that Speed Man- agement Strategy Project, which has been rolling on since mid of June 2009 featuring participation of several stakeholders, is nearing completion. RTA stated that fixing the proper speed limit according to the design of road is a key factor in ensuring the safety of road users, and that the compliance with the specified speed limits contributes to a better traffic flow and avoidance of crashes along with the conse- quential losses in lives and properties. “RTA will soon finalize the Speed Manual detailing the strategies and procedures of fixing the speed limits on Dubai roads in accordance with the best and modern global standards,” announced engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of RTA Traffic & Roads Agency. She comment- ed on the contents of the Manual which includes: Setting the optimum correlation between speed limits and traffic flow. Defining and enhancing the basic engineering elements set for addressing dangerous speeds. Intensifying ad campaigns to highlight the hazards of over-speeding. Assessing the optimal speed margin levels. Reviewing road designing manuals as far as fixing the speed limits is concerned. Developing principles & procedures for fixing the speed limits and reviewing the current speed limits. Carrying out a site survey of roads and speed limits, and raising rec- ommendations. Engineer Maitha revealed that there was an increase in road acci- dents fatalities as a result of high speed during the first three months of 2010 where 10 cases were reported compared to 7 cases during the same period last year. She called on road users to exercise caution during driving and not to exceed the speed limits as over-speeding risks have become a major cause of fatal traffic accidents as they were responsible for 20% of fatalities. “The year 2009 witnessed 101 accidents triggered by exces- sive speeds resulting in 42 fatalities i.e. 18.7% of fatalities reported fic studies and projects undertaken by the RTA in the field of traffic last year; which clocked 225 fatalities,” she noted. safety and cited several speed-related measures taken by the RTA at Maitha pointed out that the high fatality rate seen in the first quarter of site which contributed to reducing the number of crashes on Dubai the year was matched by a reduction in traffic accident rates where roads. 22 accidents were reported resulting in 40 casualties, whereas over- “The law is very strict in the penalties and offences of over-speeding speeding led to 48 accidents resulting in 63 casualties during the as they are classified among the most dangerous violations to same period of last year. motorists and road users. According to the law, the penalty for She continued: “Adhering to the fixed driving speed is one of the high- exceeding the maximum speed limit by more than 60 km/hour is a ly effective measures in minimizing traffic accidents. Speed fixing 1000 dirham fine, 12 traffic points and seizing the vehicle for 30 days. mechanism is based on accurate engineering standards including the Road racing; which is another type of speed violation, carries a hefty designed driving speed, actual driving speed level observed by most fine amounting to 2000 dirham, 12 traffic points and seizing the vehi- drivers, urbanization level on both sides of the road, pedestrian move- cle for 30 days as well,” she commented. ment, schools & mosques, traffic volume, and the high possibility of “In the context of RTA vision of providing Safe & Smooth Transport for sustaining serial accidents (involving multiple vehicles). All, RTA is continuously revising the maximum and minimum speed “Over-speeding renders the driver unable to control the steering limits on some roads across the Emirate, and raises or decreases the wheel and deprives him or her of an ample opportunity to identify the speed level according to the condition and circumstances of the road appropriate options when suddenly confronted by a traffic situation. as well as the surrounding environment. In doing so RTA is always Many drivers are liable to multiple risks that sometimes cost them maintaining a commendable cooperation and coordination with its their lives due to their persistence on driving at high speed, let alone strategic partners in the interest of the community in general and road the costs incurred by the community and government entities. users in particular. It follows that the speed limits on some Dubai “Excessive speed does not always end in realizing the objective of roads are managed according to engineering standards as well as the reaching the intended destination, but rather results in multiplying the change in the road condition with the aim of curbing serious traffic risks of sustaining crashes as concluded in the study which proves accidents, and applying speed & traffic safety strategies to ease traf- that the probability of sustaining crashes rises dangerously with the fic congestion and conclude to an effective traffic system” added speed acceleration. Maitha in a final remark. “We, in the RTA, are seeking to share with all road users the results of analyzing traffic accidents and studies to educate and acquaint Speed (km/h) Probability of sustaining them with the risks of over-speeding along with the resulting human a crash compared with a speed of and material losses. During the awareness programs we launch, we 100 km/h also attempt to focus on providing relevant information & statistics 105 Double together with live examples of individuals hospitalized as a result of 110 4 folds injuries sustained in traffic accidents,” explained Maitha. 115 11 folds The CEO of Traffic & Roads Agency stressed the importance of traf- 120 32 folds

17 Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 18

Community Saeety RTA issues Truck Tires Safety Guide

The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has pub- lished in early July this year an educative booklet about Truck Tires Safety in three languages (Ara- bic, English & Urdu) as part of its traffic campaign which aims at educating truck drivers on the importance of conducting tire inspection and ensuring tire safety. Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of RTA Traffic & Roads Agency, said: “This is the fifth edition of Trucks Tire Safety Booklets and Bulletins pub- lished by Traffic Awareness Section in this year as part of the events and campaigns undertaken by the Section which also include a bulletin high- lighting the key traffic mistakes and how to avoid them; which was published during the Gulf Traffic Week”. She added: “Truck Tires Safety Guide targets drivers of heavy vehicles and will be distributed in cooperation with Jebel Ali Police Station at trucks assembly points in Jebel Ali, Fruits & Vegetables Market and truck drivers rest house near tire measurements, using the quality and safe products, checking Sewage Station, in addition to key transportation companies tire manufacturing date, ensuring the four tires are fully identical, operating trucks. The campaign, which is run during the current checking the soundness and suitability of air pressure of the month of July, is part of “Your vehicle’s safety is integral to your spare tire, and avoiding buying used tires even though they look safety” campaign; sponsored by the Ministry of Interior and will pretty good. last through August 2010”. In the introduction of the booklet it was stated: Tires are key com- Engineer Maitha further added: “This campaign comes in the ponents of the vehicle and any defect in the tire might trigger the context of the Agency’s educative plan targeting road users, vehicle’s overturn, particularly at highways. Traffic safety indica- including truck driver. This year’s educative campaigns oriented tors show that accidents related to tire explosion during high to truck drivers focus on educating them on the permissible speed are usually fatal. height of cargo in Dubai roads, the timing of permissible trucks The booklet contains diverse information about tire inspection, movement on some roads, and the importance of carrying out tire impacts of low & high tire pressure, tire cross changing & balanc- inspection and the need to check tire soundness to ensure safe ing, how to expand the lifetime of tires, specifications of truck tires use”. in countries with hot climate, meanings of symbols written on both Engineer Maitha called for compliance with the specifications and sides of the tire, beside tips and other valuable information. standards fixed by vehicles’ manufacturers relating to the basic

RTA links with five vehicle insurers In a step to make the vehicle registration more streamlined

RTA's Licensing Agency has expanded its ance. service delivery capacity by approving five "The insurers use the same RTA's online service vehicle insurers to process vehicle registration that a person would use from their home. As part renewals for RTA clients. of the renewal process a person chooses if they This came in a press conference held yester- want the final vehicle registration card sent to day morning at auditorium of RTA's Headquar- them by courier and when. But importantly, the ter through which the Licensing Agency Trusted Agent provides the person with an Inter- unleashed an agreement it had signed with im or temporary license to allow the person to five vehicle insurers. immediately drive their vehicle," said Bahrozyan. Ahmed Bahrozyan Licensing Agency CEO "This is part of the plan to make business with confirmed that the Licensing Agency had the Agency easier by reducing the need to visit approved five vehicle insurers, called Trusted RTA. When people renew their vehicle insurance Agents, to renew vehicle registration for RTA's with one of the five insurers, they can also com- customers. It means when a person renews their vehicle insur- plete the registration renewal at the same time," he continued. ance with a Trusted Agent, the client can also have the insur- Linking with vehicle insurers increases the number of locations ance staff renew their vehicle registration with RTA at the same that people can now visit to renew their vehicle registration. It time. A visit to RTA is not required. The five approved vehicle also means through the insurers, that the Licensing Agency has insurers are Royal and Sun Alliance Insurance, Fujairah Insur- a presence in all UAE emirates for people to renew a Dubai ance, Oman Insurance, AXA Insurance and Noor Takaful Insur- vehicle registration.

Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae 18 Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 19

RTA Community RTA’s Women Committee to boost coop with Dubai Women’s Establishment

Dr. Aysha Al Busmait, Director of Customers Service Cen- “RTA Women Committee has agreed with the Dubai ters, Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) and Chairwoman Women Establishment to foster establishing partnerships of RTA Women Committee, highlighted the importance of and joint cooperation in several episodes including hold- communicating and cooperating with the Dubai Women ing of joint workshops & training courses, transferring Establishment (DWE), the arch supporter of working knowledge, sharing expertise, publishing leaflets & book- women across Dubai Emirate. lets, and coordinating participation in conferences & work- A statement to this effect was made in a bilateral meeting shops held outside the UAE,” she elaborated. recently held at the Head Office of the Dubai Women The meeting explored the successful role assumed by the Establishment during which the two parties discussed the Dubai Women Establishment in advocating the pioneer possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding scheme of establishing nurseries in the Government with the aim of improving the life of the working woman. Departments, and reviewed the increased productivity of The meeting was attended by Dr. Aysha Al Busmait along women working in the government entities following the with several members of RTA Women Committee in addi- introduction of the scheme. tion to the Director of Strategy & Corporate Planning For her part Shamsa Salih, Director of DWE Strategy & Shamsa Salih and Senior Manager of Development & Corporate Planning, praised RTA achievements in build- Innovation Moza Al Serkal from the DWE. ing advanced public transport systems, providing the “RTA Women Committee is intending to hold a series of infrastructure required for operating these systems (such meetings with several women establishments, commit- as roads, bridges & tunnels), and introducing top-class tees, societies and social organizations across the UAE, technologies in this important service field. Shamsa also particularly in Dubai with a view to realizing a host of key expressed her delight with the meeting held with RTA objectives such as enhancing the social responsibility of Women Committee. the RTA towards a variety of community spectrums, and At the end of the meeting, Dr. Aysha Al Busmait made a exchanging concepts, practices & practical experience in visual presentation through which she casted light on the addition to enriching the knowledge of RTA Women Com- evolution of the RTA Women Committee along with the mittee members by having exposure to the practices of achievements made so far, and hailed the Dubai Women other leading women entities operating all over the UAE,” Establishment for offering to hold such meetings. said Al Busmait. RTA’s Buildings & Facilities Dep’t cements employees’ social links

Social events organized by Communication Committee participation in the social events and activities at the level set by Buildings & Facilities Department, Corporate Sup- of the RTA such as Women Committee events, child nurs- port Services Sector of Roads & Transport Authority ery, and RTA annual day, and also coordinates the (RTA) have captured the attention of employees across Department’s participation in the social activities & events the Department as it played a tangible role in cementing at the level of Dubai Emirate such as the National Day, inter-employee social links and diffusing the spirit of coop- Dubai Shopping Festival, Global Village events, and Her- eration, friendliness and love in the community. itage Village and sports events. The Committee is also The main objective of the Committee is to enhance the introducing new social events and activities for RTA communication spirit among the employees of the Depart- employees as well as their families beyond the scope of ment in a way that goes beyond the office formalities and work such as organizing external journeys, family & child daily work routines. gatherings and sports competitions. According to Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali, Director of RTA Among the events held by the Committee for the employ- Buildings & Facilities, the Department formed the Commu- ees of Buildings & Facilities Department was an Islamic nication Committee to carry out a host of tasks examples lecture on the second day of the holy month of Ramadan of which include staging social events and contributions entitled: “How Should I be in Ramadan” delivered by the inside and outside the Department such as the weekly Islamic scholar Sheikh Khalid Mohammed Ismail in the breakfast, monthly gathering and Ramadan Iftar. It also Theatre Hall of RTA Head Office. The reverend sheikh attends to organizing & coordinating the participation in urged the attendance to benefit from the holy month in employee personal events such as career promotion, getting closer to Allah through worships, alms, family vis- engagement, marriage, birth, and illness among others. its and other commendable practices that make the Additionally, the Committee coordinates the Department’s Moslem closer to Allah’s satisfaction.

19 Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 20

RTA Community Dubai Taxi honours customers in high demand for taxi service

The Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), Roads & Transport Author- The CEO of DTC unveiled the details of honourees saying: “Cor- ity (RTA), has recently honoured a bunch of distinguished busi- porate customers were selected on the basis of daily demand for ness customers in high demand for taxi service. DTC made DTC’s taxicabs during the first half of this year. Jumeirah Living friendly & formal individual visits to these customers at their work- World Trade Centre Residence, Suites and Hotel Apartments places to assess their requirements in keeping with “Loyalty” ini- ranked first as they made 3281 requests for taxi service. Second tiative launched by DTC last year. came The Meydan which placed 3266 requests, third came The Commenting on the move, the CEO of DTC Abdul Aziz Malik World Trade Center (2649 requests), and the fourth was Arjaan said: “Loyalty initiative, which continues through 2010, comprises Hotel (1932 requests). Fifth was Emirates Stars Hotel Apartments selecting 10 corporate customers in the first half of 2009 and 10 (1575 requests), sixth was Bonnington Hotel, Jumeirah Lake more customers in the second half of the year with the aim of Towers (1560 requests), seventh was Emirates Golf Club (1461 honouring these permanent customers who are continuously requests), eighth was Intercontinental Hotel Apartments (1184 using the service of our taxicabs. These customers are our part- requests), ninth was Montgomery Hotel – The Address (1088 ners and it will be in order to recognize their substantial contribu- requests) and tenth was Crystal Living Hotel, Layia Oak Hotel & tion to raising the demand for DTC services in keeping with our Suites (1058 requests)”. “This move opens the door for other enti- vision of providing Safe & Smooth Transport for All. Through this ties to review the scale of our services used by these honourees, exercise we will be contributing to the improvement of DTC’s and how it opened up a channel for those customers to meet the services & facilities and offer our customers a service at top qual- executives of the DTC to give them further exposure about the ity standards”. services and facilities on offer as well as current and future proj- He continued: “During this year, a new method has been intro- ects,” said Al Malik in a concluding remark. duced for honouring these top customers through paying friendly For their part the winning entities expressed deep delight and visits to them by DTC senior management in order to meet & appreciation for this recognition which reflected the ongoing socialize with them, exchange improvement ideas, and attend to attention of the DTC to its customers spanning a broad spectrum their feedback on the quality of services & facilities offered by the of sectors across Dubai. They also lauded the improved services DTC to customers and passengers. The select group of cus- rendered offered and cited the quick response in executing book- tomers welcomed the new overture and praised the efforts made ing & dispatching taxicabs to customers. by the DTC to enhance the satisfaction of passengers and loyal Worth-mentioning that DTC fixed the fare of using a taxicab as customers”. 500 dirham for 6 hours and 800 dirham for 12 hours.

RTA’s Women Committee Tejari honours RTA sign up for Facebook Tejari, the leading government entity in making contracts, procurement and com- mercial exchange on-line, has honoured the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) The Women Committee, Roads & Transport as one of the most prominent government entities processing its business con- Authority (RTA) has recently signed up for Face- tracts and tenders through Tejari portal and in recognition of its extensive and book portal with the aim of broadening its reach and intensive commercial transactions carried through this electronic government mar- online communication, and as such has become ketplace. Statistics show that RTA has channeled 97 per cent of its online trans- one of the pioneer Dubai Government affiliated actions through Tejari. committees engaged in a variety of social activities A statement to this effect was made in a bilateral meeting recently held in RTA to communicate with the public through the biggest Head Office attended by the CEO of RTA Corporate Technical Support Services online social network across the globe. Sector Abdullah Al Madani, and the CEO of Tejari Suhail Al Banna, in addition to “Communicating through the Facebook portal is several directors & managers of both parties. part of RTA initiatives intended to capitalize on a Al Madani expressed his deep delight with the decoration accorded to the RTA by broad-based media exposure via a host of mass Tejari, and considered it as another achievement added to the impressive record media channels such as daily papers, radios, televi- of achievements of the RTA, and a great incentive to make further progress in all sion channels and websites with the aim of creating fields and fronts. powerful channels of communication with the pub- “We thank Tejari for this meaningful gesture; which bears reference to the atten- lic. Such initiatives rank among the RTA strategic tion of Tejari senior management to reward the best users of its electronic platform. drive to provide the latest information to the public, We, in the RTA, are proud of teaming up with Tejari as RTA strategy in this field is media channels and those concerned with RTA based on capitalizing on the latest technological advancements such as process- news,” said Rawdha Khalifa Al Mahrazi, Deputy ing transactions online, and RTA has made remarkable strides down this track”. Chairwomen of RTA Women Committee. For his part the CEO of Tejari Suhail Al Banna said: “This honour comes in recog- “Using these social networks plays a considerable nition of the relentless efforts of the RTA and its keen attention on implementing role in establishing a two-way communication the standards endorsed by the as regards online procure- between the RTA (represented in the Women Com- ment requests as well as auction and contract systems introduced by the Dubai mittee) and the public, enabling a wide chunk of the Government with a view to enhancing the e-commerce and maximizing the community in general and RTA customers in partic- chances of bringing the best results & services to the public and private depart- ular to keep tabs on the news and activities of the ments & agencies and their clients as well”. Women Committee posted over these social net- Al Banna called on both parties to continue with their efforts towards achieving works,” she added. their common objectives and cementing their bilateral partnership. Meanwhile, he “The public is an important partner of the RTA and commended RTA efforts and effective contribution to building the future of Dubai, therefore interacting with the public through the adding that Tejari would be ready to lend all sorts of support and advice to the RTA online social networks is considered vitally impor- to process its online transactions via Tejari in a smooth & prompt manner and at tant,” remarked Rawdha. the best prices on offer.

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RTA’s Women Committee hosts a lecture by Islamic scholar Dr. Omar Abdul Kafi

The Islamic scholar Dr. Omar Abdul Kafi was recently hosted by Women Committee, Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), to deliver a lecture entitled: “Work Ethics in Islam” in an effort to raise the awareness of RTA male and female employees as this topic is critically important for upgrading work mecha- nism, increasing production and enhancing self-monitoring attitudes among employees. Dr. Aysha Al Busmait, Chairwoman of RTA Women Commit- tee and Director of Customer Services Centers, reiterated RTA approach aiming at promoting the awareness of work ethics and the need to adhere to them with the aim of improv- ing work mechanism and as such realizing the objectives, goals, plans, projects and strategic initiatives of the RTA with- in the specific timelines set for improving the level of services rendered to community members. in particular, and makes it an example to be emulated by other author- “RTA Women Committee is keen on diversifying its activities & events ities and agencies across the region,” said Dr. Abdul Kafi. within the RTA and seeks from time to time to host influential figures Through his lecture, Dr. Abdul Kafi narrated several stories and occur- in the community representing a wide spectrum of religious, social, rences extracted from the life of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), his medical and economic disciplines in addition to holding external dedicated companions and followers throughout decades and history. events such as tours to key landmarks and tourist sites in Dubai Emi- He cited their sincere efforts and dedication to carry out their duties in rate,” said Dr. Aysha. full and apply the work ethics which they learned and acquired from “Work ethics are the backbone and secrets of progress and prosper- the Prophet. He stressed that application of work ethics is classified ity underlying the successes made by government, semi-government among the good deeds that make Moslems closer and eligible to and private entities. Achievements made by such entities in various God’s satisfaction. business, economic and service fields among others are viewed as “Work ethics prompt us to monitor God’s orders in public and private indicators of the development of nations and communities,” added Dr. as well as during all works and activities we make. Nevertheless, Aysha. some people are lenient in doing their jobs, come late to duty or even For his part Dr. Omar Abdul Kafi urged the attendants to adhere to the absent themselves for several days without officially accepted rea- work ethics and carry out their duties in full in a way honoured & cul- sons, while they continue to be paid for such time, without feeling that minated by Allah’s satisfaction; which can be achieved through giving they take something they are not entitled to. It is noticeable that some much attention towards delivering works on schedules. “This will employees take matters related to job performance very light as if enrich RTA work drive and generate more achievements & strategic doing their jobs sincerely is a sort of volunteer activity, and this leads initiatives in a way that enhances the profile of the RTA in the com- to low employee productivity in general, particularly in the government munity as a premier service provider in the UAE in general and Dubai sector,” said Dr. Abdul Kafi in a final comment.

RTA shares its expertise in documentation, e-archiving with a delegation from Ajman Government The Administrative Services Department, training beside realizing the objectives Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), has of the scheme in providing additional recently briefed a visiting delegation from office space, preserving documents, Ajman Emirate comprising representatives of minimizing the use of paper, cutting several government bodies such as the storage & retrieval time & cost, easing Financial & Administrative Dep’t, Municipality document search & retrieval and stan- & Planning Dep’t, Lands & Properties Dep’t dardizing & documenting work proce- and Ajman Free Zone Authority on its expert- dures. He stressed the importance of ise in the field of documentation and e- streamlining, classifying and ranking archiving. the paper archives before embarking The visiting delegation, which was headed by on e-archiving, and highlighted the Sheikha Mira Humaid Al Nu’aimi, projects need of concerted efforts of all employ- coordinator, Information Systems Division, Financial & Administra- ees in establishing the e-archiving system. tive Dep’t, Ajman, was accompanied by Nabeel Yousef Al Ali, Direc- “All RTA agencies are keen on lending support to all official bodies tor of Administrative Services Dep’t, RTA Corporate Administrative in the UAE to benefit from its expertise in various administrative, Support Services Sector. planning, strategic and service fields among other fields where RTA Al Ali explained that the visiting delegation reviewed RTA Adminis- work teams made record achievements that contributed effectively trative Services Department’s expertise in documentation and e- to boosting the image of Dubai as a premier economic, business, archiving, and the extent to which this aspect is contributing to tourist and financial center in the region,” said Al Ali. developing and simplifying work procedures by minimizing the scale The visiting delegation also included Sheikha Noora Humaid Al of paper-based transactions. The delegation also checked the sig- Nu’aimi, engineer Amnah Al Ali, Mohammed Jasim Al Ali, Abdul nificance of this scheme in converting the paper stock into an elec- Aziz Al Shamsi, Afra bin Hindi, Sabriyah Mohamed, Abdul Aziz Al tronic archive, providing the required information and offering staff Dosari, Ridha Mohammed and Mohammed Salah Uddin.

21 Issue 28 - October 2010 . www.rta.ae Al Masar 28-E-Oct 2010 9/29/10 8:18 AM Page 22

RTA Community Rail Agency entertains orphan kids in a journey to Dubai Aquarium

Rail Planning & Development Department, Rail Agency of Roads & Transport Authority recently treated orphan kids of Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation to a recreational trip to Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Mall as part of the humanitarian activities of the Agency towards this segment of the community in an effort to entertain them and make them happi- er & cheerful. The Director of Rail Planning & Development Abdul Rida Abu Al Hassan said: “This gesture, which comes in the context of the social activities of the Department this year, reflects the attention of the RTA to foster initiatives that seek to enhance the communication with various spectrums of the com- munity. It also represents a perception of the need of orphan kids for care and patronage in keeping with our spiritual values and the principles of our For their part, the employees of Sharjah Social Empower- Islamic religion. During the journey the children were ment Foundation thanked RTA for this meaningful gesture accompanied by the Director and other staff who accord- towards the orphan children at the Foundation, and ed every care and attention to these kids in order to enter- praised the huge efforts made by the RTA. tain and cheer them up. It is worth-mentioning that Rail Planning & Development During their tour of the Aquarium, the children were famil- Department has earlier this year organized the activities of iarized with various types of fishes and attended to a brief- World Water Day 2010 in the context of its concern for ing about the facility from one of the specialist employees protection of the environment in cooperation with Environ- of the Aquarium. ment Department, Dubai Municipality.

Public Transport Agency entertains members of Dubai Club for Special Sports in a cruise aboard the Water Bus on Dubai

The Marine Transport Department, Public Transport Islamic teachings,” said Mohammed Ali Al Bastaki, Act- Agency, Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has recent- ing Director of Marine Transport Dep’t. ly entertained 130 members of various age groups of During the cruise, club members were accompanied by the Dubai Club for Special Sports as well as several Hussain Hassan Khan Sahib, Acting Manager of Marine employees of the Club in a complimentary cruise aboard Operation & Maintenance Section, Marine Transport the Water Bus on . The move comes as Dep’t, along with several employees of the Dep’t who part of the corporate and human responsibilities of the accorded every care and welfare means to these mem- Department towards this community segment with the bers in a bid to entertain and cheer them up. aim of entertaining and according them care and welfare For their part the employees of the Dubai Club for Spe- that gives them joy and fun. cial Sports thanked RTA Marine Transport Agency for “This gesture comes in the context of the social activities this kind gesture towards the members of the Club and of the Dep’t set for this year in keeping with RTA atten- lauded the huge efforts made by the RTA towards tion to adopt initiatives that seek to boost communica- broadening, intensifying and improving public transport tion with all segments of the community and perceive sector and associated infrastructure in keeping with the the needs of the Club’s members for care and welfare; image of Dubai as a prominent economic regional hub. which also conforms to our religious values and lofty

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