The Official Monthly Magazine of 's Roads and Transport Authority Issue No. 70 April 2014

With its museum-themed stations.. Dubai radiates culture, art and history to Dubai the world's smartest city with 100 initiatives, 1000 services

THE SMART CITY

THE initiative of transforming Dubai into a smart city, which was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, supervised and followed up by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, epitomizes the aspiration of our wise leadership to ensure the welfare and happiness of our people by providing world-class services, rendering Dubai a city par excellence worldwide. The Smart City envisioned by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the city that focuses on catering to the convenience and welfare of residents, and offering highly efficient services via state-of-the-art technologies. The smart mobility is one of the key pillars of smart cities, and from this standpoint, the RTA has set both the welfare & smooth living in Dubai as a top priority during projects planning & implementation phases, and will capitalize on smart technologies to provide services to customers. The RTA has future master plans for setting up technological traffic & transport systems, establishing a unified control center for all means of transport, and providing more than 200 smart phones services by the end of 2015. The RTA is currently offering a wide range of smart services covering various areas including a Centralized Traffic Lights Control System, SMS parking payment service, and the Dynamic Navigation System that provides motorists with information about road conditions to help them avoid traffic congestions. In the transport sector, we have the , which has entered the Guinness World Records in 2012 as the longest driverless metro network worldwide, automated system for tracking & managing bus movement, routes and timetables and a Unified Fare Collection System (Nol), and the Electronic Journey Planner (Wojhati) which enables customers to plan their daily travels in advance. The RTA has also installed 620 screens in metro and bus stations to provide passengers with real-time arrival information of trains and buses, besides uploading data on Google Maps, rendering Dubai the first city in the and North Africa to activate this service. It has also introduced the Smart Taxi App, the first of its kind in the region enabling taxi users to book taxicabs and track their movement in real-time via their smart-phones. The Smart Taxis are fitted with electronic screens that provide a host of services to riders including flights inquiry. Finally, we pledge to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, that we will spare no efforts to realize the vision of HH for the happiness of people, and to work in road conditions team spirit to make Dubai road conditions the smartest city in roads and transport systems worldwide. Mattar Al Tayer Chairman of the Board and Executive Director

Cover The 100 initiatives and 1000 services render Dubai as the 14 world`s smartest city

Cover Mohammed bin Rashid issues directives to convert metro 08 stations into museums, cultural, artistic and historical platforms.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 5 GENERAL SUPERVISOR Aysha AL Busmait

EDITOR IN CHIEF AlMoatasem Belah Mohammed Our News MANAGING DIRECTOR Mohammed Al Munji 20 Al Tayer showcases RTAs experience, role of TECHNICAL SUPERVISION infrastructure in prompting comprehensive Abou Baker Eltoum development at Jeddah Economic Forum

EDITING MANAGER Fiona Chantelle Magdy Abu Zeed

ADMIN COORDINATOR Afaf Al Fayyad

PHOTOGRAPHY Syed Zaheer Haidar

DESIGN & Our Projects MARKETING

24 Blue-waters Island and the International City Projects endorsed

Art Director 26 Corniche Project to be developed Said Mansour at a cost of AED 100 million

CONTACT US 28 , Metro Stations on the P.O.Box: 118899 Dubai,U.A.E opened Tel: +971 4 2903989 Fax: +971 4 2903933 29 RTA awards AED104m contract to construct Email: [email protected] internal roads at Muhaisna 2 www.rta.ae

6 CONTENTS

Numbers 30 440 million passengers used mass transit modes in Dubai in 2013

Achievements 32 RTA is the first public entity in Dubai to obtain ISO Management System Certification. Gulf Traffic Safety 2013, 33 Raising Pedestrian Safety Rates Reward

Services

34 Smart system to identify paid parking zone codes

35 Marine transit services beefed up, Dubai Ferry service timetable revised

Reciprocal Ads Initiative Al Masar magazine Editorial Board offers the Reciprocal Ads initiative whereby a space for an advert is allocated to strategic partners and other government entities against allocating the same space in the magazine of the beneficial entity during the same month for the benefit of the RTA.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 7 Cover Story

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Al Masar – Mohammed Al Munji ------Mohammed directs to transform Dubai Metro stations into museums

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum gave his directions to transform Dubai Metro stations into art museums displaying artworks and creations from different themes and cultures. Cover Story

This first of its kind initiative implementation stages. The His Highness said: “We want to aims to make arts and creativity presentation was attended also reach everyone through arts. We accessible to all segments of the attended by Dubai Crown Prince want creativity to reach every society and to provide Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed individual in the society. We want Metro passengers with a unique bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai to inspire and communicate with and entertaining experience. It Deputy Ruler Sheikh Maktoum bin every employee on his way to also aims to enhance the UAE’s Mohammed bin Rashid. work, every student on his way international position in general Sheikh Mohammed also to pursuing education and every and Dubai’s in particular as a vital directed that the project be tourist visiting Dubai.” supporter for arts and artists. completed within 12 months “We want to transfer Dubai Sheikh Mohammed’s and to synchronize the launch Metro stations to museums directive came with the commencement of “Art accompanying passengers to all during a briefing Dubai 2015”. destinations.” on Dubai Metro His Highness also said that, “The Museum project U.A.E. has been playing a vital role and its different in supporting arts in the Arab

10 region and in the world for years. the cultural and artistic aspects of The U.A.E. provides a cultural life in Dubai,” Sheikh Mohammed bridge that links the east and the also added. west. Art is a universal language With more than 137 million that has the power to unite visitors in 2013 and an average humanity and bring people from of 500 thousand visitors a different languages, nationalities day, Dubai Metro Museum and cultures together. It removes initiative aims to create an barriers that seems to separate artistic environment with them from one another.” a wide reach to inspire “We will continue to create creativity and innovation. motivational environments to Phase one of the project support arts and culture and will include transforming highlight the creative and artistic four vital metro stations into aspects of Dubai. Our purpose is to art museums. Each of the lead a creative renaissance for all museums will have a specific

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 11 Cover Story

theme that highlights a specific development phases over 1400 aspect of arts or cultures. The years. Manuscripts, ceramics interior and exterior designs of the and jewelry will be some of the museums will reflect their themes. items on display to highlight the Islamic arts and Arabic Calligraphy art and cultural aspects of the Museum, Inventions Museum, times they represent. Calligraphy Contemporary Art Museum paintings will also be on display to and Visual Art Museum will give visitors a taste of the Arabic be launched during phase calligraphy art and its development one. through the different ages. The Islamic art and Arabic Inventions Museum will offer Calligraphy Museum the visitors from different ages a will include a collection unique and interactive educational of artworks inspired by experience that illustrates the Islamic art and its the most important human

12 inventions in different fields models, and many other items with state-of-the-art technology such as engineering, medicine, that reflect the expressive and and smart and interactive mobile astronomy, mathematics, intellectual styles which have been applications in line with Smart Dubai geography and many other fields. created by contemporary artists initiative that was launched lately It will also include the contribution from different parts of the world. by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed of the most important inventors Visual Art Museum will highlight bin Rashid Al Maktoum to transform in human history from all ages the contemporary visual art scene Dubai into the smartest city in the including the very age we live in. through the screening of movies world. Dubai Metro Museum will The Contemporary Art Museum will and documentaries, and displaying be an educational and a cultural offer a unique and comprehensive multimedia content of cultural opportunity on different art related view on modern art through and artistic essence. The visual art topics. It will encourage people a collection which reflects the museum will give its visitors the to interact with the displayed sense of contemporary creative opportunity to share their work artworks. It will also contribute to expression. It will have paintings, and have it on display as well. increasing awareness levels of the designs, graphic illustrations, These museums will be provided importance of art in everyday life.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 13 Cover Story

Mohammed launches Strategic Plan to transform Dubai into the smartest city

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched Dubai›s strategy to transform DUBAI into a smart city . The Plan features six main pillars and 100 initiatives on transport, communications, infrastructure , electricity and economic services and urban planning as well as converting 1000 government services into smart services during the next three years .

The launch took place in the new reality for all and change the presence of Dubai Crown Prince concept of city which the human and General Supervisor of the being lives in so as to live with him project Sheikh Hamdan through his smart phone and who bin Mohammed bin will be its key pivot. Rashid Al Maktoum His Highness said: “Our ambitions and Dubai Deputy is that this project touches the life Ruler Sheikh of every individual in our country, Maktoum bin or every mother in her house, or Mohammed employee at his work or investor in bin Rashid Al his project, or a child in his school Maktoum. or a doctor in his clinic; our goal is During the to achieve a happier life for all and launching we ask God to help us achieve this . ceremony, The launch ceremony was also Sheikh attended by Chairman of Dubai Mohammed Civil Aviation and Chief Executive affirmed: of Group Sheikh Ahmed Our country is bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Director today ushering General of Dubai Information into a new era for the Department Sheikh Hasher bin improvement and Maktoum Al Maktoum, Sheikh development of quality Mansour bin Mohammed bin of life through this gigantic Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh project which got underway Saeed bin Maktoum bin Juma Al through an unprecedented public- Maktoum, Chairman of Sheikh private partnership to make a Mohammed’s Executive Office and

14 Chairman of the Higher Committee to try all that is new in science and for transforming Dubai into a He added: His Highness Sheikh immediately apply it. He went on to smart city Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed bin Rashid wants a say, following the launch ceremony: Al Gergawi, Deputy Chairman of smart city, smart economy, smart We promise all investors, residents Dubai Police and Public Security education and smart environment; , those interested and above all the Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan he wants to make a different life, UAE citizens, to experience broad Tamim, Director General of His not for upcoming generations , but changes over the coming period; Highness’s the Ruler›s Office Lt. a different life now . we are part of Sheikh Mohammed General Musabah bin Rashid Al The Dubai Crown Prince praised bin Rashid’s team; we are Fattan, Dubai Director of Protocol the renewable vision of His competent to face the challenge he and Hospitality Khalifa Saeed Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin had set for us. Suleiman, a number of department Rashid Al Maktoum, which seeks to Sheikh Hamdan affirmed that heads and senior officials. create a new environment for the Dubai visitors will have a different On this occasion, Dubai Crown life of the people in the emirate. and unique tourist experience. Prince and General Supervisor He added that we will have a 5-D He praised the team working on of the project of transforming control room, the world›s largest this project, which inaugurates a Dubai into a smart city Sheikh room which we will use to follow-up new phase in the history of the UAE. Hamdan bin Mohammed bin the process of transforming Dubai Addressing the teams members: Rashid Al Maktoum said: His into a Smart City .. and will be also «You are the people who are Highness Sheikh Mohammed used to oversee the government capable of meeting Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum does projects and service indicators, bin Rashid’s trust; a head of us is not want to just develop the roads, weather conditions and journey that is full of challenges, services, but he wants to change emergency situations, etc... Sheikh a national task that is full of many the way of life in Dubai. He did Hamdan also mentioned that accomplishments, a community not set for us goals in customer Dubai will have the largest open holds a lot of expectations and a satisfaction, but this time the global laboratory for creative leadership that is not satisfied with goal is the happiness of man. people and specialized companies but the highest aspirations .

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 15 Cover Story

Preparedness... one team Al Gergawi affirmed Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi that the next , Chairman of the Executive phase will include Office and Chairman of the the creation of High Committee for Dubai›s integration of transformation into a smart city systems in all said that that after the issuance institutions in of the high directions to start the terms technical project in October, the work team and service-wise was formed and major government integration, and agencies in Dubai started to work as this will be the a team under the direct follow-up biggest challenge of Dubai Crown Prince to develop a because it will also full concept and a comprehensive include integrated plan to implement the project as systems with the soon as possible. private sector. He added, in a speech, that He explained that when the team began to work on the strategic plan is this project , we found that the flexible according foundations were all ready. Sheikh to the directives Hamdan then told us: It seems that of Sheikh Hamdan His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Mohammed, even takes into containing all information and bin Rashid had known before account all the rapid and stunning data about the city of Dubai in to where he wants to be up; technological developments in the one place to make it easy for everything is ready for this project world so we can absorb them and individuals to communuicate with and we only need to build on benefit from them directly . various institutions and facilities in the already existed foundations, Dubai. Dubai Electronic board will thank God . Communication, integration, be allocated to decision makers cooperation which includes all the data and The strategic plan is based on information that they may require three basic ideas: communication, to ensure that their decisions serve integration and cooperation. the public interest . These ideas will enhance As part of the Dubai Smart strategy, communication between Roads and Transport Authority RTA the residents of the city will implement a comprehensive and its institutions plan to ensure access to provide and facilities through the smartest transportation easy access and system in the world through information sharing development of traffic systems , of data about transportation , and creation of a the city among unified control center for all means themselves to keep of transportation and traffic , as them informed well as providing more than 200 about government services , using smartphones at the entities, schools, end of 2015 , in addition to RTA’s hospitals, roads and current services. transport, sensor systems, buildings, energy and Al Tayer: Smart mobility is others. This can be achieved key pillar of Smart Cities through “My window to Dubai HE Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of programme the Board and Executive Director of The plan also includes development the Roads and Transport Authority of smart and personal boards (RTA), stated that the initiative of

16 transforming Dubai into a smart payment service (mParking), and metro and bus stations to provide city, which was launched by His the Dynamic Navigation System passengers with real-time arrival Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin (Dalili) that provides motorists with information of trains and buses, Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President real-time information about roads besides uploading public transport and Prime Minister of the UAE and condition to help them avoid traffic data on Google Maps, rendering Ruler of Dubai, supervised and congestions. Dubai the first city in the Middle followed up by His Highness Sheikh “In the transport sector, we have East and North Africa to activate Hamdan bin Mohammed bin the Dubai Metro, which has entered this service. Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince the Guinness World Records as “It has also launched the Smart of Dubai, epitomizes the aspiration the longest driverless metro Taxi App, the first of its kind in the of our wise leadership to ensure network, in addition to the region enabling taxi users to book the welfare and happiness of our Unified Fare Collection System taxicabs and track their movement people by providing world-class (Nol), and the Electronic Journey in real-time via their smart-phones. services, rendering Dubai a city par Planner (Wojhati) which enables The Smart Taxis are fitted with excellence worldwide. customers to plan their daily electronic screens that provide a “Smart mobility is one of the key travels in advance. The RTA has host of services to riders including pillars of smart cities, and from also installed 620 screens in flights inquiry. this standpoint, the RTA has set both the welfare & smooth life of residents as a top priority during projects planning & implementation phases. The RTA utilizes smart technologies to provide services to customers, and in the near future the civic body will implement a comprehensive plan for technological traffic & transport systems, establish a unified control center for all means of transport, and provide more than 200 smart phones services by the end of 2015,” said Al Tayer. He pointed out that the “RTA is currently offering a wide range of smart services covering various areas including a Centralized Traffic Lights Control System, SMS parking

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 17 Cover Story

RTA unveils smart roadmap comprising more than 200 services The move is taken following the launch of the Strategic Plan of ‘Smart Dubai’ initiative

Executives of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) pledged RTA’s full support to the initiative of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to transform Dubai into the smartest city in the world within 3 years. This step is represented through adopting smart solutions & applications in various services & initiatives provided by the RTA to the public.

To this effect the RTA held a “Since inception, the RTA has been particular,” he stated. press conference yesterday at endeavoring to deliver services Bahrozyan further added: “We its Head Office to announce the befitting the reputed standing of appreciate the massive efforts roadmap for transforming various the Dubai Emirate as a premier and the prudent drive of HH RTA service bundles (more than global economic, tourist, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid 200 services) into the Smart financial hub attracting multitudes Al Maktoum to transform Dubai Applications platform in an effort of investors, business leaders, into the smartest city in the world to simplify procedures of availing tourists and visitors, especially to ensure the happiness of its public services, thus saving during the season of exhibitions residents and visitors through the effort & time through using Apps and conferences representing key provision of services surpassing the installed in mobile phones and industries,” said Bahrozyan. highest international standards.” tablet computers among others. He added: “In this conference “We have nine new services The conference was attended we are unveiling the roadmap covering different customer by , CEO of for migrating RTA services to the categories namely, Practice Theory RTA’s Licensing Agency & Head of Smart Government platform after Test (in Arabic, English & Urdu), Supervision of Implementing the going through unremitting efforts Tender Services (information Integrated Roadmap to Transfer and fruitful cooperation with the service to update vendors about to the Smart Government relevant departments of Dubai new tender opportunities), Team; and a host of Directors Government; which has ultimately Al-Hares Service, School NOC of concerned RTA departments. culminated in realizing our Services Inquiry (allowing schools, Media folks descended in the cherished objective of achieving kindergartens & nurseries to track event; which heralds a turning the Dubai Government vision in down their requested NOCs), point in the mechanism of a way compatible with the new Water Taxi Services (request form delivering RTA services to development seen by the UAE in to book a water taxi), and NOL customers on daily basis. general and the Dubai Emirate in Basic Transaction History (list of

18 our clientele informed of the cut It is worth-mentioning that the Smart off launch dates set for their key Dubai initiative aims at transforming services,” said Bahrozyan in a concluding remark. Dubai into the world’s smartest city in the During the press conference, upcoming three years through rolling out Abdulla Al Bastaki, Director of 100 initiatives and 1000 smart services to IT at RTA’s Corporate Technical Support Services Sector, delivered improve the quality of life in the city. a presentation about RTA’s Smart Services. The Smart Dubai initiative is built the recent transactions made and provide more than 200 services on six key pillars namely: smart using NOL cards),” he continued. over the mobile phone. Our economy, smart lifestyle, smart “Additionally, we offer Application focal attention and methodology transportation, smart governance, for Elderly Parking Permit (allowing will definitely revolve around smart environment, and smart the elderly to apply for parking customers and we will be keen on generations; which revolve permit through mobile devices), using a variety of communication around three key thrusts namely: Application for Renewal/Lost/ channels with them in order to communication, integration and Damaged Elderly Parking Permit, identify their prime service needs cooperation. and Application for Renewal/Lost/ and embark on providing them Damaged Permit for the Disabled over the mobile phone. We will (Permanent Permit). It is worth also engage them with us directly mentioning that the RTA currently during the designing and has 32 smart services which are testing phases of the Apps all compatible with Android & iOS to be developed. We will platforms.” be developing a galaxy of Bahrozyan also said: “The RTA creative services in a variety definitely attaches considerable of fields related to vehicles importance to the realization parking, vehicles licensing and of the vision of HH Sheikh public transport means.” Mohammed bin Rashid Al “In the near future we will Maktoum, Vice-President and be working diligently to Prime Minister of the UAE and comply with and fulfill the Ruler of Dubai, in caring for the standards of the Dubai public and customers spanning Smart Government as regards various community members, developing services over the through delivering best-in-class mobile phone, besides providing smart 5-star services measuring ordinary services such as the up to their needs and expectations payment portal via mobile phones, via mobile phones, such that they e-payment portal and registration can avail these services wherever through my e-ID. We will also test and whenever they wish without the new services in 11 telephone going through the hassles of brands to ensure conventional procedures; an compatibility exercise poised to contribute to with the most raising their satisfaction rating as commonly well.” used devices. “We, as a work team in the RTA, It remains to were keen on mapping out an be said that important philosophy in designing the Roadmap will services such that they become be accompanied by a both accessible and easy-to-use, comprehensive marketing particularly as we have to tackle campaign in order to keep

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 19 Our News

The event was opened by the Governor of Mekkah Al Tayer showcases RTA’s experience, role of infrastructure in prompting comprehensive development at Jeddah Economic Forum

His Royal Highness Prince Mishaal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Makkah Region, has opened the 14th edition of Jeddah Economic Forum 2014, themed “Youth-driven Development.” The Forum was attended by His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Chairman of the General Authority of Tourism and Antiquities; Sheikh Saleh bin Abdullah Kamel, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jeddah, and a number of dignitaries.

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman and spent more than AED 280 billion on between 1.2 and 2, in addition to the Executive Director of the Roads and major infrastructure projects across indirect benefits that may quadruple Transport Authority (RTA), delivered the Emirate.” direct benefits; which means that every a keynote address at the opening “The Government policies have single dirham spent on infrastructure session of the Conference in front resulted in a steady and continuous earns a total return of 6 dirham, of more than 2,000 participants economic growth in the Emirate of including direct & indirect benefits. hailing from the Middle East, Asia Dubai, where the emirate’s gross “The focuses and Europe. Al Tayer reviewed the domestic product leapfrogged from on continuous development of roads role of infrastructure in promoting 240 billion dirhams in 2006 to AED & transport infrastructure, besides the economic development, and 312 billion in 2012, with an average maintaining their quality. This approach highlighted RTA’s experience in annual increase of about 5%, thanks contributed to ranking the UAE’s road developing an infrastructure of roads to the diverse economic sectors, such network as the world-best according and mass transit systems. as free zones, besides creating events to the World Economic Forum Report Al Tayer said: “There are many factors encouraging small And medium 2013, and boosted the odds of Dubai that could affect the economic enterprises as they play a major role to host international events such as the development in any country, such in driving the economy, and as a result IMF and World Bank meetings, UITP regulations, legislation, available of this drive, 80% of global companies Congress and Mobility & City Transport services, political stability and the are based in Dubai,” explained Al Tayer. Exhibition, and the World . strategic location. Although these The roads and transport systems factors are crucial, infrastructure Return on Investment development have also contributed commands a special importance as HE Mattar Al Tayer, added, “Road to saving time and fuel, and making it represents the mainstay & the key and transport projects represent savings in as much as AED 72 billion driver of the economic development. the key infrastructure elements that during the past seven years. The Dubai Government’s policy is based on support and propel the economic Dubai government is keen on utilizing long-term investment in developing development. Studies have shown the best technology in place after infrastructure and maintaining that the rate of return on investment customizing it to fit Dubai conditions, quality, where the Dubai government of road & transport projects ranges such as the Dubai Metro, the world’s

20 thanks to the new transport means introduced, including metro, , modern marine transport such as Dubai Ferry, Water Bus and Water Taxi. These efforts resulted in increasing e ridership from 163 million passengers in 2006 to 446 million passengers in 2013.” HE Mattar Al Tayer, had also touched on the strategy launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aimed at turning Dubai into the world’s smartest city within three years. This strategy is based on six aspects, and three main ideas, namely the integration, communication and cooperation. The strategy aims to provide seamless & hassle-free service to the public via smartphones in order to realize the objective of “Bringing happiness to People,” where Dubai government longest fully automated driverless about 6 million passengers in 2015,” is no longer settling for customer metro line, which boasts of cutting- elaborated Al Tayer. satisfaction, but strives to ensure edge technology. These technologies superior quality of life and bringing have helped to achieve high reliability 446 million passengers happiness to people. of service exceeding 99.9%. Stations Al Tayer noted: “The integration “The Government seeks to bring and trains have been designed at five- between the mass transit systems is happiness to people by adopting star level to encourage residents to one of the defining features of the clear-cut plans & procedures such as use the Dubai Metro, which has lifted infrastructure, roads and transport introducing hassle-free public services since launched on 09/09/09 about 400 in the emirate of Dubai. We strive via smartphones. Several programs million passengers, and contributed to achieve the integration between have been rolled out to achieve this to appreciating the value of the land transport systems and economic urban objective including Hamdan Bin around the metro stations by 30%. development plans in the emirate. We Mohammed Smart Government “The , which will be up also seek to achieve the integration Program, Dubai Smart Government and running next November, is one between the various transport modes Services Development Model, and the world’s first tramway projects and strike an acceptable balance Stars Program for Rating Service powered by a ground-based electric between the use of private vehicles Centers. The Government also aims to supply system extending along the and the use of mass transit means. develop the infrastructure, including track, thus obviating the need for The RTA has made great strides in this roads and mass transit system, catenary cables. It is also the first of its aspect where the mass transit system develop community and improve the kind in the Middle East with no other witnessed a dramatic improvement quality of life,” continued Al Tayer. peers except in France and Tokyo, Japan. The Tram diamond-like coaches have been customized specifically The Conference aims to generate around 15 million to Dubai, with high quality stations jobs in the Kingdom and other GCC countries and excellent services including Wi- through adopting economic policies capable of Fi and Gold Cabins for women and eliminating unemployment amongst youths. children. The tram is expected to lift

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 21 Our News

theme: Connecting Minds, Creating the Future. “The theme fits well with the vision of the Dubai Government in achieving communication between various cultures and civilizations. The event comprises three main pillars: Mobility, Sustainability, and Opportunities, and these pillars fit well with the global drive towards sustainable development. The smart mobility represents one of the key elements of the Expo strategy. The RTA is currently working on a comprehensive roads and transport plan to serve the Expo through which smart and environment-friendly solutions will be provided where all buses and taxicabs dedicated for the service of the Expo will be eco- Smart Mobility and applications highlighted by the friendly. About 25 million visitors are Al Tayer said: “The provision of smart Unified Fare System (NOL); which is expected to flock to the Expo venue transportation is one of the six key one of the highly advanced systems over six months, and the event is thrusts of the Smart City Strategy. To worldwide enabling the payment of set to provide 270 thousand job achieve this goal, the RTA has set a well- all public transport fares in an easy opportunities.” defined roadmap that encompasses manner, and the smart buses fitted Al Tayer also touched on Expo Life the provision of a host of smart with screen displaying real time initiative; which is a 7-year program systems and applications of roads information and directions through aimed at stepping up cooperation & and transportation such as the smart which users can also access the innovation besides translating the parking to easily identify unoccupied Journey Planner program (Wojhati). theme of the Expo into opportunities parking slots and streamline the use “As we have a great belief in the and partnerships of benefit to all of parking. It also includes the smart huge role of youth in providing stakeholders. Expo Life program taxi which is fitted with interactive sustainability, the RTA launched a host envisages the setting up of Expo screens enabling riders to review of initiatives aimed at educating and Partnership Fund amounting to 100 flight information details, and process motivating the youth to use public million Euros in terms of grants, loans the check-in procedures, in addition transport systems such as patronizing and prizes to be specified based on to comprehensive real time accurate Youth Group for Public Transport the nature and category of projects information about road traffic, setting initiative launched by the UITP, Dubai & initiatives. up a unified control center for roads Youth for Public Transport at the level He also reviewed future challenges and mass transit systems and several of Dubai targeting youth with the aim on the march of turning Dubai systems and technological applications of encouraging them to use public into the smartest city of the world currently in use in Dubai. Examples transport systems, besides improving highlighted by the rapid urban & of these include the payment of the profile of Dubai’s youth amongst economic development, limited parking via mobile phones (mParking) cosmopolitan cities in the field of role of mass transit systems in the where more than 40 million e-tickets infrastructure and public transport. movement of residents, and the have been issued since the launch need to cater to the needs of a wide of service back in 2009, and the toll Expo 2020 and diverse chunk of customers in gate system () which is capable of In his speech, Al Tayer spoke about Dubai who belong to more than remotely reading the vehicle’s details the Dubai winning the right to host 200 nationalities. “The government even if driving at 300 km/h speed. the World Expo 2020; which will be has developed comprehensive plans In the field of public transport, we held for the first time in the MENA for coping with these challenges have several technological systems region and South Asia under the including continuing with the

22 development of roads and transport The Conference focused on the first day on the factors infrastructure, and encouraging mass empowering the provision of jobs from the demand transport. Thus our future plans perspective, and the second & third days focused on encompass the construction of 335 km-long rail and tram ways, and empowering the human resources from the supply boosting the partnership with the point of view. Sessions covered an array of issues private sector to provide funding, highlighted by the need to reform the work environment, and achieve efficiency as well as rejuvenate the links between investors and the business sustainability,” he added. community, encouraging entrepreneurs, probing the Concluding his speech, Al Tayer views of youth about work, developing and maintaining stressed the importance of investment key skills, and supporting youth business leaders. in the infrastructure, considering it the key driver of the economic development, and benefiting the best international practices upon studying finance, sharing expertise, raising the relies on two key aspects i.e. the and designing road and transport operational efficiency and maintaining demand; which is reflected in projects and systems i.e. to start the infrastructure, and managing nurturing an environment conducive from where others have reached. assets & properties in a highly efficient to practicing business & investment, “Much attention has to be paid to and sustainable manner.” and sourcing jobs for the private sector national cadres to qualify and groom The keynote speech delivered by in a sustainable manner; besides them as they are considered the H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of encouraging the entrepreneurship, key factors underlining the success the Board and Executive Director of supporting small and medium of government departments, and the RTA to the Conference was well enterprisesand creating funding achieving the integration between the received and commended by senior opportunities. The other aspect is transportation plans and the urban & officials and participants in the event. the supply; which can be addressed economic plans. Here the appropriate by constructing an infrastructure for route of rail and tram ways has to be Objectives of the Conference human resources capable of providing set along with the suitable locations Sessions of the Forum saw lively sufficient numbers of suitable job of stations in a way integrating with discussions about providing seekers who have the appropriate the land uses plans, in addition to sustainable economic development, skills and attitudes at the proper the integration of the transportation focusing of two specific sectors geographical locations in order to plans, the physical & informational i.e. tourism on the one hand and cater to the needs of business owners integration between mass transit transportation on the other, in in the private sector besides fostering systems in terms of accessibility to addition to emphasis on the youth as and encouraging the entrepreneurial stations, boosting the effective public- a key focus group of the Forum. The spirit & creativity amongst business private partnership for providing sustainable economic development young male and female leaders.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 23 Our Projects

costing AED700 m Mohammed bin Rashid endorses two Entrance Projects for , International City HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al to the opposite of Jumeirah Beach “The new Bridge will serve the needs Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Residence Coastline to Jumeirah Lakes of the Bluewaters Island featuring an Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Towers Junction (Interchange 5.5) on array of spectacular waterfronts which has recently endorsed the Entrances the Sheikh Zayed Road. The Bridge will promise to be the most attractive in Project for the Bluewaters Island; one have two lanes in each direction in 1400 the UAE. The Island comprises the of the unique projects opposite to the meters stretch and there will be lanes Dubai Eye; which is set to be the Coastline; dedicated for the personal world’s largest . The which is poised to be one of the most system along with additional slipways at Island will also host retail, residential, stunning and highly captivating tourist the junctions of Jumeirah Lakes, and a tourist and recreational facilities in destinations in the UAE. HH has also service road on the Sheikh Zayed Road addition to a deluxe 5-star hotel, a endorsed the Entrances Project for leading to the Island extending 1500 diverse cast of residential options, the International City, spanning an meters. The RTA will award the project and a bazaar surrounded by a walk area of about 800 hectares comprising construction contract, which will cost fitted with outdoor dining outlets. The several residential communities as around 500 million dirham, in the Island is set to attract around three well as the Dragon Mart. The two second quarter of this year. million visitors every year. projects will be undertaken at a cost “The proposed Bridge will provide “The project will be served by a hovering around 700 million dirham. free movement for the traffic inbound system to lift visitors from H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of from Abu Dhabi on the Sheikh Zayed the metro station to the festivities the Board and Executive Director of Road outbound to Bluewaters Island, area, a footbridge will be constructed the Roads and Transport Authority traffic coming from Road via to link the luxury Island with the (RTA), said: “Entrances Project for Qarn Road heading towards waterfront of the Jumeirah Beach the Bluewaters Island comprises the the Island, and the traffic from the Residence, and a telpherage (cable construction of a bridge stretching Island heading to Dubai and Abu car) to shuttle visitors from and to the from the Bluewaters Island situated Dhabi through the Sheikh Zayed Road. entertainment zone,” stated Al Tayer.

24 The International City International City. Improvements the nearing completion of the Dragon RTA Chairman of the Board and also include surface intersections Mart extension; which is anticipated to Executive Director said: “The allowing left turns off Al Manama increase traffic congestions in the area. International City Entrances Project Road to the International City and Currently there is a main entry point extend from the Sheikh Mohammed Nouakchott Road, and the project on Road used by the residents bin Zayed Road to Nouakchott Road is set to contribute to stepping up of the International City and visitors of (North – South), and from Al Awir the efficiency of roads around the the Dragon Mart; which gives rise to Road to Al Manama Road (East – International City to accommodate snarls during morning & evening peak West). It comprises constructing a the rising numbers of traffic volumes. times. The RTA has recently provided flyover at the intersection of Al Awir “This project is undertaken in an auxiliary entry/exit point on Al Road and Nouakchott Road to provide collaboration with Nakheel, the master Manama Road controlled by a light a free left turn from Nouakchott Road developer of the International City signal which contributed to improving to Al Awir Road in the direction of the project and in the light of the traffic the traffic movement and alleviating Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, impacts study for the International the pressure on the entry point of the besides providing a U-Turn for vehicles City and the Dragon Mart as well as International City off Al Awir Road. moving out of the International City travelling in the direction of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed “Nouakchott Road will be widened from a Road, thus bypassing more than 7 km-long distance. The project also single-carriageway to a dual carriageway includes widening the existing entry of two lanes in each direction, besides point to the International City off Al Awir Road by adding an extra lane to providing two additional entry/exit points accommodate traffic volumes without for the International City to keep abreast of impacting the traffic movement. The the property development projects in the project also includes transforming the existing traffic signal on Al Manama neighbourhood of the International City, besides Road into a flyover allowing free carrying out traffic improvements on a number turns in all directions, besides serving of internal intersections in the International City. future developments around the

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 25 Our Projects

The facility which extends 14 km is scheduled to be opened in November this year RTA awards 100m dirham contract to develop Jumeirah Corniche

The Board of Directors of the Roads longest corniche in the Emirate. enjoy & practice a variety of activities, and Transport Authority (RTA), chaired “This urban project is undertaken in and top class care to all visitors by H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of response to the directives of HH Sheikh including citizens, residents and the Board and Executive Director of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, tourists heading towards the Corniche the RTA, has recently endorsed the Vice-President and Prime Minister of for relaxation, swimming or practicing awarding of the Jumeirah Corniche the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make sport,” said Al Tayer. Development Contract costing about people happier. HH considers sport as a “Besides offering a value-added 100 million dirham. The project key element in building the community aesthetic & comfortable relaxation spans the beachside of six residential and having healthy individuals capable destination, the project commands communities starting from a location of adding to the development drive. special importance as it contributes at the back of the Dubai Marine Beach The Jumeirah Corniche will also be to the improvement of the social Resort & Spa up to Hotel a beautiful addition offering rest & infrastructure in the Emirate, in a 14 km stretch, rendering it the relaxation facilities for the public to particularly with regards to the quality

26 “The contractor started construction the sand beach into a more vibrant works in the project in the mid of last facility through providing aesthetic, February and the project is slated recreational elements as well as public for opening next November. The services for the visiting tourists and project comprises the construction residents heading to Dubai beaches of a 5 meter-wide walk, 4 meter-wide to enjoy seaside sitting or practicing jogging track, rest areas including jogging & walking sports. retail kiosks & shaded benches “Dubai city is the favorite tourist overlooking the beach in addition to destination for multitude of nationalities health & public realms. The project particularly during vacations and public will have a distinctive landscaping holidays. This prompted the drive to theme featuring well designed and construct tourist projects offering fun positioned flora, and decorative to visitors, and to bear reference to lighting characterized by stylish & the global standing of Dubai in creative creative design,” he continued. designs and innovation,” said Al Tayer “The project aims at converting in a final remark.

of the public health of the community in terms of providing wider opportunities for practicing jogging & walking sports as well as a host of water sports such as swimming and rowing among others. These beach activities befit all family members and contribute to raising their physique, thus have a direct contribution to improving the public health of the community through caring for the facilities that enable the public to practice all forms of sport,” he explained.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 27 Our Projects

Al Jadaf, Creek metro stations opened in March The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) opened on Saturday March 1st and Creek stations; the terminal two stations on the Green Line of the Dubai Metro. By operating these two final stations, the RTA completed the operation of all the Dubai Metro stations. H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA, said: “Al Jadaf and Creek stations; which are located customers at the end of the Green Line track, service, implementing serve existing projects and others regulations drawn up by the RTA to under construction such as the expected to be used protect the facilities, and enforcing and Sama Al Jadaf, by about 1400 riders every day. the rules against offenders,” said and they will also serve the Dubai However, these numbers are the Chairman of the Board and Festival City by operating a marine poised to double up exponentially Executive Director of the RTA in a transit service linking with the with the opening of property final remark. Creek Station. Al Wasl Club will development projects, some of Coordination has also been made also be linked with Al Jadaf Station which are nearing completion,” with the Transport Security Dep’t through a bus route to be operated added Al Tayer. to deploy security personnel at the when matches are held. The RTA “Through the Dubai Metro two stations to ensure the security has provided 100 parking slots at operator Co., the RTA has and safety of the metro riders. Al Jadaf Station, besides providing completed all arrangements Moreover, teams of Emergency a bus route to serve passengers of related to the operation of the two Services (Civil Defence, Ambulance the two stations. stations by carrying out technical and Rescue) made field visits to “Operating these two stations test runs of the metro including the two stations to know more will contribute significantly to testing the communication about them and the surroundings. expediting the development systems, automatic operation It is worth-mentioning that Al Jadaf tempo in the neighbourhood, and systems, power feed system, and Creek stations are amongst the accordingly the ridership will pick and the air-conditioning system elevated metro stations where the up gradually as per the foreseeable among others. It has also finalized concourse and platform are on the inputs. The daily ridership of Al the appointment of 16 employees upper level of the elevated metro Jadaf Station is forecasted as to man the two metro stations track. Each station extends 132 2100 riders per day, whereas the and they have already been meters in length and 29 meters in Creek Station is deployed at site after undergoing width, and has a capacity to handle intense training exposures 11,000 passengers per hour per on delivering direction. The two stations are fitted with escalators as well as lifts.

28 RTA awards AED104m contract to construct internal roads at Muhaisna 2

and buses all over the area in addition to street lighting works & storm water drainage network. Construction works in the project will start as early as this month and continue for 450 days,” explained Al Tayer. Phase II, which started in 2013 costing about 140 million dirham, covered three residential districts namely: Al Muhaisna 2 and South 1 and 2. Phase III, which starts this year, covers , 1, and Oud Mateena 2 costing about 130 million dirham. Phase IV, which will be kicked off in 2015, will The Board of Directors of the area, carrying out improvements cover the construction of roads Roads & Transport Authority of Amman Street, converting in 3 districts costing about 140 (RTA), chaired by H.E. Mattar Al some roundabouts into signalized million dirham at Nad El Sheba 4, Tayer, Chairman of the Board junctions, and erecting a fence Oud Mateena 1 and Al Khawaneej and Executive Director of the on the median of Algiers Street 2. In Phase V, which will start in RTA, approved the awarding of a as well as designating crossing 2016, road construction works to contract for constructing Muhaisna points for pedestrians in order to the tune of 250 million dirham 2 Internal Roads Construction improve the traffic movement and will be undertaken in 3 districts Project at a cost of AED104 million. road safety. namely: Industrial, Al The project is part of the five-year The project also includes providing Qusais Industrial 3, 4 and 5 in plan (2012 – 2016) endorsed by new parking slots for vehicles addition to Al Awir 1. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for paving internal “The 5-Year Plan for Constructing roads in a number of residential communities in Dubai costing Internal Roads in Dubai Emirate (2012 about one billion dirham in total. “Undertaking Muhaisna 2 Internal – 2016) spans about 16 districts Roads Construction Project where urbanization rates range from stems from RTA’s commitment to improve roads network to address 20 to 80% but might be as low as 5% the requirements of demographic in some areas. The initial Phase of and urban expansion in the Emirate in keeping with RTA’s the plan, which cost about Dhs150m, vision of providing safe and covered five residential communities smooth transport for all,” said Al Tayer. “The project comprises namely: Hatta community, constructing roads extending 31 3, Al Qouz 2, 3 and 4. km, repaving existing roads in the

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 29 Numbers

440m passengers used public transport in Dubai in 2013 Public transport daily ridership hits 1.3 m 136 m riders served by Dubai Metro last year

associated with the use of vehicles such as fuel, maintenance and others,” explained Al Tayer. “The Red and Green Lines of the Dubai Metro have lifted last year 137.759 million riders compared to 109.491 million riders in 2012, and 69 million riders in 2011. The was used last year by approximately 89 million riders compared with 71.914 million riders in 2012 and 60 million riders in 2011. The Green Line lifted last year 48.873 million passengers compared with 37.576 million passengers in 2012. The average daily ridership of the metro recorded last year was in excess of 450 thousand and exceeded half a million during H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman to make these modes the first public holidays, whereas the of the Board and Executive mobility choice for citizens, average daily ridership reported Director of the Roads & Transport residents and visitors in their in 2012 was in the region of 300 Authority (RTA), revealed that daily travels for work or having thousand,” he commented. mass transit systems of the RTA a time out. RTA’s efforts in this “The number of public - comprising the Dubai Metro, regard have paid great dividends transport users last year hit public buses, marine transit as reflected in the sustained 115,670,587 riders compared modes and taxis (Dubai Taxi growth of mass transit means with 107,800,000 riders in 2012. and franchise companies taxis) users, and in the rise of the share The average daily ridership of - have all lifted 440.672 million of mass transit modes in peoples’ public buses amounted to 321 passengers in 2013, according mobility from 6% in 2006 to 13% thousands compared with 299 to statistics released by RTA in 2013; which is edging closer to thousands in 2012. Marine Statistics Section. The figure the target set by the RTA to raise transit means, comprising abras, compares well with previous the share of public transport water bus, water taxi and Dubai public transport ridership which in the mobility of people to as Ferry, were used last year by amounted to 367.657 million, much as 20% by 2020. Moreover, 13.223 million riders; which is and 346.500 million in 2012 and the RTA managed to bring the same ridership level reported 2011 respectively. The average about a change and evolution in 2012. Abras accounted for the daily ridership of public transport in the culture & attitudes of all lion share in the marine transit in 2013 amounted to 1.3 million segments of the community modes ridership last year, lifting compared to one million in 2012 towards using public transit about 12 million riders, and the and 963 thousand in 2011. means. Peoples have started to rest is shared between the water “The public transport systems grasp the benefits and positives bus, water taxi and Ferry Dubai. in Dubai have today become of using public transport such as “The total ridership of taxis (Dubai instrumental in the mobility of the psychological and physical Taxi and franchise companies people all over the Emirate, and comfort, financial gains, higher fleet) amounted to 174.018 the RTA is making huge efforts safety, and lesser expenses million riders last year compared

30 Al Tayer: Public transport systems in Dubai have to 137.390 million riders in 2012. RTA-owned Dubai Taxi cabs alone become instrumental in served 72.167 million riders, and franchise companies taxicabs the mobility of people in the lifted 101.85 million riders,” he elaborated. Emirate Al Tayer was delighted with these indicators which validate the effectiveness of plans & programs implemented by the RTA towards and traffic systems necessary for new mass transit mode with offering a variety of mobility realizing the optimal utilization the launch of the Dubai Tram options for Dubai residents. and highest efficiency of roads which serves vital communities “The strategic & executive plans & public transport system. Plans such as the Marina, Jumeirah the RTA is undertaking focus on also seek to implement policies Beach Residence, Dubai Media the principle of integration i.e. capable of limiting the semi total City, Knowledge Village among the provision of smooth and reliance of the public on private others. The Tram will link with the easy travel around the Emirate vehicles by increasing their Dubai Metro in the hinges on the provision of reliance on other transit means as well as the Jumeirah Lakes holistic solutions in upgrading including public transport, and Towers stations. The Tram will and widening networks of car-pooling, particularly in a city also intersect with the Monorail roads & bridges, improving all like Dubai where private vehicle of the at the elements of public transport ownership is more than 1 vehicle entrance of the Palm off Al Safouh system (including the metro, per 2 persons of population. Street,” said the RTA Chairman of tram, buses and marine transit “The last quarter of this year will the Board and Executive Director modes) and upgrading transport see the introduction of a brand in a final remark.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 31 Our Achievements

RTA becomes first civic body to achieve ISO certification in Energy Management System

مطر الطاير خالل ا�ستالم �شهادة الآيزو

The Roads & Transport Authority local levels, and in manifestation CEO of RTA Strategy & Corporate (RTA), has recently obtained of its vision of providing safe and Governance; Abdulla Al Madani, ISO 50001:2011 certification in smooth transport for all. CEO of RTA Corporate Technical Energy Management System, H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of Support Services Sector, and a thus has become the first Dubai the Board and Executive Director host of RTA directors. Government entity and the of the RTA, accepted the ISO Al Tayer expressed his delight first public transport provider Energy Management System with RTA obtaining such in the MENA region to obtain certificate from Theuns Kotze, international accreditation in this certification. The award was Regional Director of the British energy management system, made in recognition of the efforts Standards Institution (BSI); the which adds up to successes made by the RTA to maintain awarding body, in the presence of RTA’s efforts to ensure the transparency at the strategic and of Abdul Mohsen Ibrahim Younes, highest international standards of

The award is made in recognition of RTA’s plan to improve pedestrian safety levels

The Traffic & Roads Agency, Roads class standards in this vital field. to the challenges of road safety in & Transport Authority (RTA), has “Since inception, the RTA assigned Dubai. Such challenges are saddled recently bagged the Gulf Traffic considerable attention to traffic with multiple difficulties when it Safety Award 2013 in the Roads safety in general and pedestrians comes to pedestrians safety; which Safety Achievement Category in safety in particular, considering will not simply be achieved by recognition of its project entitled: it part and parcel of its holistic constructing bridges and designating Work Plan of Pedestrians & safety strategy oriented towards pedestrian crossing zones. Rather it Mobility Safety in Dubai. minimizing road fatalities, and requires urging road users among Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of improving safety levels to bring them pedestrians to use these facilities RTA Traffic & Roads Agency, was at par with the highest international which are provided in the first elated to see the Agency clinching levels in keeping with its vision respect for their own safety and to this prestigious award; which of providing Safe and Smooth protect their lives. Among other reflected the ongoing commitment Transport for All,” said Maitha. strategies capable of improving on the part of the RTA to achieve the “The Traffic & Roads Agency is pedestrian safety levels is to intensify highest traffic safety rates at world- continuously endeavoring to rise up promotional campaigns to diffuse the

32 It should be noted that the RTA has obtained of energy-efficient management system.” 10 certifications conforming to international “The study conducted by the RTA standards such as ISO 50001, ISO 14001, ISO of late about the importance of OHSAS 18001, ISO 9001, ISO 27001, ISO 20000, PAS 55, SA providing an energy management 8000, ISO PAS 22399 and ISO 31000. structure to control energy efficiency, has concluded that the Dubai Metro has saved a corporate sustainability. induce continuous improvement large amount of energy thanks to “This success, he said, culminates in energy performance, including the sustainable, innovative and RTA’s efforts in energy management energy efficiency, alternative diversified solutions it has made and sustainability, which echoes energy, energy-efficient purchases in re-using energy. By fulfilling the the long-term national initiative and energy-efficient solution to ISO 50001:2011 requirements, to build a Green Economy in the meet the demand,” added Al Tayer.. the RTA has now been capable of UAE initiative under the theme, RTA Chairman of the Board monitoring and managing the use of “Green Economy for Sustainable and Executive Director further energy efficiently, reducing energy Development,” announced by His added, “Implementing the costs, and ensuring transport Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Energy Management System in sustainability,” continued Al Tayer. Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President conformity with the International For his part, Theuns Kotze, Regional and Prime Minister of the UAE and Standards Organization (ISO) Director of the British Standards Ruler of Dubai. It also comes in line enabled the RTA to utilize the Institution (BSI) in the MENA with the UAE’s 2021 vision, and edge-cutting energy technology to Region, said, “Energy is a crucial Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy rationalize energy consumption, element in most operations of 2030,” explained Al Tayer. enhance energy performance in institutions considering its costs and “Based on the RTA’s mission which general, cut energy costs, slash financial implications. The effort put provides for developing integrated carbon emissions and provide by institutions to cut these costs and sustainable roads & transport a more secure energy supply. may have a negative bearing on systems, the RTA has designed Adopting this unique standard the overall performance of those the Energy Management System, has also contributed to improving institutions.” He lauded RTA’s keen which enables the civic body to management practices by fulfilling attention on sustaining excellence adopt a systematic approach to more operation requirements in environmental fields.”

culture of using footbridges and designated crossing zones amongst various community segments,” added the CEO of RTA Traffic and Roads Agency. Engineer Maitha further explained that the Traffic Safety awareness campaigns for improving pedestrian safety levels focused on specific segments such as workers, students, parents and the Department held workshops Pedestrian Safety & Mobility Action motorists using various languages at schools, workers’ quarters, and Plan 2010 – 2014, which has seen a spoken in the UAE in order to realize mega firms and entities such as significant improvement in figuring the objectives of these campaigns Dubai Drydocks among others. out practical solutions in order to which impact the lives of a wide chunk “The RTA was able to scoop the Gulf enhance pedestrians safety and of the community. In this regard Traffic Safety Award 2013 thanks to the reduce jaywalking mortality rates.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 33 Our Services

RTA introduces smart system to recognize codes of paid parking zones

required service, the new system boasts of several edge-cutting features that include storing the data of the vehicle in question and to use it as and when needed, RTA Traffic & and offering a list of all controlled The Roads Roads Agency, said: parking zones in order to enable and Transport “The RTA has provided a users easily verify their parking Authority (RTA) number of options for paying zones and buy e-tickets, thus has recently developed parking fees such as coins, Nol avoiding unnecessary fines. a new application operable on cards, prepaid cards, and seasonal “This smart app is a new step mobile phones to facilitate the cards as well as paying through the towards realizing RTA’s strategic payment of parking fees under mobile phone. The rate of using goals geared towards addressing its continuous endeavours to smart car parking payment means the needs of the Smart Government come up with the best and most (mobile phone, and drive in Dubai Emirate, particularly expedient means of accessing prepaid cards) has touched 60% as car parks are classified among the service. The new system vis-à-vis the conventional means broad-based services impacting has the feature of automatically (using coins). To ensure top-class community members. Therefore recognizing the Zone Code in an service offering to our customers, we are seeking to overcome initiative aimed at saving the time this state-of-the-art system has potential difficulties that may be of parking users looking around been developed and provided to experienced by our customers in for a directional signage to know smart phone users to enable them paying parking fees such that the the correct Code of the area identify the relevant Zone Code to exercise is performed in a hassle- where they intend to park in. pay their parking fees in a smooth free manner without feeling any In this context Engineer Adel Al and smart manner.” burden while going through the Marzooki, Director of Parking, “Over above providing the procedure.

RTA increases Consumer Protection The RTA Licensing Agency has private sale of a vehicle between by motor dealers and auction introduced a new Online Vehicle two clients. The RTA’s record is companies. The RTA is making this a Sales service for use by motor updated immediately. This means government managed service. The dealers and vehicle auction any traffic offences or other issues use of the RTA’s Online service will companies who process the that occur after the transaction is also allow Trusted Agent Dealers to private sale of used vehicles. completed are recorded against provide clients with a range of other The new service allows a motor the new owner. RTA services. It means some clients dealership or auction company, Ahmed Bahrozian, CEO, RTA’s may not need to visit RTA after known as an RTA’s Trusted Licensing Agency said: “The Online selling or buying a used vehicle.” Agent Dealer, to log onto the service will replace the manual “Currently motor dealers determine RTA’s website and record the paper service that is provided what they charge clients for the

34 RTA beefs up marine transit services, revises schedules of Dubai Ferry The Public Transport Agency, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has beefed up its service offering in a number of stations of Dubai Ferry at the Dubai Marina by setting up Customer Service Kiosks in the marine transit stations of the Marina Mall, Marina Walk, Marina Terrace, and the Marine Promenade. The Agency has also revised the operational timing of the Dubai Ferry to match the It is noteworthy that the Ferry is the latest demand for this service. and largest RTA`s marine transit mode, used as an “The Agency launched the said additional & fast transport means to serve new areas stations to mark the Public along with , the coastal strip extending Transport Day on the first of along Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach November 2013 where the Ferry Residence and the Waterfront projects. service was rejuvenated in the Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek,” At 5 pm, (Enjoying the Sunset the stunning views of the Dubai said Hussain Khansaheb, Acting Scenery journey) for photography Marina. Another trip will set off Director of Marine Transport, RTA enthusiasts will move around Al at 5:00 pm to where photography Public Transport Agency. Ghubaiba area and lasts about enthusiasts will enjoy the view of “The first journey of Dubai Ferry one hour. the sunset within Dubai Marina starts off at 11.00 am from Al As for the Dubai Ferry journeys area for a period of one hour.» Ghubaiba Station to the Dubai starting from Dubai Marina, he The Acting Director of Marine Marina in a one-way service only. explained: «The first trip, which Transport, Public Transport The (evening tea) journey, which is a one-way trip, kick starts at Agency revealed that «the takes about one hour, starts at 11:00 am from Dubai Marina Agency will probe the views 3 pm from Al Ghubaiba in the station to Ghubaiba station, while of Dubai Ferry users about the direction of the Floating Bridge the Evening Tea trip, which last possibility of changing the one- and then moves in the direction for an hour, starts at 3:00 in the way two trips that start from Al of the Hyatt Regency Hotel and afternoon from Dubai Marina Ghubaiba and Dubai Marina at back to Al Ghubaiba Station. area, where passengers enjoy 11:00 to round trips.

RTA increases Consumer Protection Sales transaction service. This will automatic alerts to both vehicle fraud risk, the RTA will list continue but RTA will advertise a owners and agents who conduct the motor dealers who have recommended price and clients can the transactions. This reduces the commenced using the Online negotiate an appropriate fee for the likelihood of fraud,” he explained. service on the RTA internet site, transaction with the motor dealer,” The new service is piloting once the pilot period is finished. Added Bahrozian. at present with Co-part UAE The RTA is encouraging clients to “Placing this service Online Auctions, a leading online auto safeguard their interests and deal and under the control of RTA auction company. The RTA expects with Trusted Agent motor dealers, is an investment in consumer all motor dealers to be using the who are listed on its internet site. protection. The service includes Online service in 2014. The new service will be available the use of Emirates ID Cards, To assist clients minimize their to other motor dealers in 2014.

Issue NO. 70 April 2014 35