The Official Monthly Magazine of `s RTA Issue No. 91 January 2016

RTA wins 11 awards of Hamdan bin Mohammad Program

44 events in celebration Al Fareej bus makes of National Day Al Fareej Happier

هيئة مبتكره ُ ِ The Story of a Number Countries, institutions and individuals are always connected to special dates and numbers, representing national events, unique achievements, or very special situations. The second of December is a day that is eternally engraved in the memory of every Emirati. On this day in 1971, the union of the United Arab was proclaimed. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid , UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has chosen number one “1” to be his favorite number as he mentioned, “My people and I love being in the first place.” In RTA, we strongly relate to the numbers “9” and “11”, as they represent our exceptional achievements. On 92009/9/, at 9:09, the of was launched, while the was launched on 92011/9/. As for number “11,” it has its own story, where in November (the 11th month of the year), H.E. Mattar Al Tayer specifically on 12005/11/, RTA was established, and on 112014/11/, Tram Dubai was Director General and Chairman launched. of the Board of Executive Directors Last month, RTA was crowned with 11 awards in the Hamdan Bin Mohamed Program for Smart Government after facing a fierce competition with different entities of the . The lion’s share of different categories went to RTA, as it received the Number One Award on Public Buses Services, the best new e-government service for Dubai’s Tram that was launched on 112014/11/. RTA also received the Best Customer Service Center Award for its customer service center located in Barsha, in addition to the Best Communication Center for its Tolling System Center “,” the Best Customer Segmentation Award for its Business Sector App, the Best Governmental Partnership Award for “Tam” initiative in cooperation with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Dubai Municipality, and Mohamed bin Rashid Housing Foundation. It also received the City Builders Trophy for the “Red Team” initiative. Further, RTA received two awards for the top two applications: RTA Dubai App and Smart Roads App. On the individual level, RTA has won the Smart Integration Super Star Mr. Abdulla Al Bastaki, Information Technology Manager, along with Best Communication Center Manager Award that went to Ms. Tania Barton. Many thanks and appreciation to all RTA’s employees in all sectors and agencies for their outstanding efforts to achieve this great success. They have worked as one team, to upgrade RTA’s services provided for clients, all the way to ensure the happiness of people. In closing, we reaffirm our commitment to covenant to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. We also reaffirm the covenant to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council and His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Vice Chairman of the Executive Council, to continue on the direction they outlined for us to make a success after success and an excellence after excellence. CONTENT

Our News 12 RTA to host 27th. International Railway Safety Conference

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Achievements Our projects Our Services IPRA award for Best Media Cycling lanes, new 28 Marketing of Smart Apps 30 immense health benefits

Completion of 80% of AED 474m for Academic 29 RTA’s data classification 32 City Road Project (Phase II)

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Reciprocal ‏Advice on decreasing vehicle movement during bad weather Ads ‏Al Masar warns against possible increase in Initiative accidents during rainfall Hamdan Bin 14 44 events in celebration 06 of National Day Mohammed’s Program: 1 + 1 = 11 Smart Award 20 The innovation’s address: RTA 38 Al Fareej bus makes Al Fareej Happier

Our Services 36 7 additional languages in Theory Knowledge Driving Test

38 400 new shelters for Bus Riders

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Ahmed bin Saeed honors the winners & launches the1st. Interactive Intelligent Forum RTA wins 11 awards of the Hamdan binMohammed “Smart Government” Program

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the 2nd. Deputy Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, President of Dubai Civil Aviation, Chairman of Emirates Airline Group has honored the authorities, institutions and individuals winners of Hamdan bin Mohammed Program for Smart Government 2015, during the annual ceremony which has been held at Trade Centre in the presence of HH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-Chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts, HE Lieutenant General Dahi Khalfan Tmaim, Vice President of Dubai Police & Public Security, and Abdullah Al Shaibani, Secretary- General of Dubai Executive Council, and a number of government departments and executive managers.

After a fierce competition with the other institutional level, and two on the individual Customer Service Center for its Customer governmental institutions and authorities in level. RTA won the number one award for Service Center in Barsha, Best Communication Dubai, the majority of the program’s awards its public buses services, along with the Best Center for its Tolling System Center “Salik”, were received by RTA, as it was crowned New Governmental Service Award for Dubai Best Customer Segmentation Award for the with a total of 11 awards: 9 of them on the Tram that was launched on 11/11/2014, Best its smart application serving the business

6 Ahmed bin Saeed honors the winners & launches the1st. Interactive Intelligent Forum RTA wins 11 awards of the Hamdan binMohammed “Smart Government” Program

SH. Hamdan bin Mohammed patron of the award.

“A Lion’s Share”

sector, in addition to Best Governmental His Excellency Mr. Matar Al Tayer, General Director and Chairman of the Board of Partnership Award for “Tamm” initiative Directors of the RTA, expressed his extreme gratitude after RTA won 11 awards in the in cooperation with Dubai Electricity and Third Hamdan bin Mohamed Smart Government Program for Smart Government. Where Water Authority, Dubai Municipality, RTA received the “lion’s share” collecting most of the awards after a fierce competition and Mohamed bin Rashed Housing with the different governmental sectors and entities. Foundation. RTA also won Town Builders Al Tayer ensured that this program that puts all authorities in challenges and competitions, Trophy for its “Red Team” initiative that is a huge motivation to enhance and develop government working systems, along with was also in cooperation with Dubai providing best services for customers to fulfill the directions and vision of His Highness Electricity & Water Authority, Dubai Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashed Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler Municipality, and Mohamed bin Rashed of Dubai, along with HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Housing Foundation. And finally, RTA Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council, and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohamed received two awards for best two smart bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Vice President of Executive Council. applications: RTA’s Smart Application Their vision is to transform Dubai to be a Smart City, and reach with it to be the smartest and Smart Roads Application. On the city in , through providing services and performance that exceeds all customers’ individual level, RTA won the Smart expectation to reach the level of making all customers happy. Al Tayer also mentioned Integration Super Start Award received that this program has set a strong infrastructure that qualifies Dubai to achieve its highest by Mr. Abdulla Al Bastaki, Information ambition of being the smartest city in the world. Technology Manager, and the other “We are extremely proud of this large coronation, our RTA was honored by getting award was received by Ms. Tania Barton the ‘lion’s share’ and winning 11 awards in Hamdan bin Mohamed Program for Smart for being the Best Communication Center Government”, Al Tayer added, “RTA will always take pride for being the first governmental Manager. entity honored by carrying HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed Flag in its headquarters for winning Best Governmental Service in the public voting system for the Metro initiative”, Smart Interactive Forum he stated, “that flag is a medal of honor for all RTA’s employees, and a motivation to put HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum even more efforts for enhancing customer service, and reaching out to customers as they launched the first smart interactive forum are the main key of developing any entity”. to document the customers’ positive

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 7 experience while using Dubai Government governmental services. However, today his of governmental services in pleasing the Services. This forum was previously adopted highness is seeking towards focusing on new people and fulfilling their interests. During the by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin type of customer responses, in an effort to ceremony, the authority that received largest Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince and understand what makes Dubai’s crowd happy number of votes was announced, as votes Chairman of the Executive Council, to develop and satisfied, and from there the government were gathered during a public voting process the customers’ experience according to their can achieve further uniqueness and greater launched throughout 12 governmental needs. His Highness praised all efforts of each leadership. initiatives started at the beginning of last individual working for Dubai’s Government as The “5D” initiative is one of its kind in November. The Department of Tourism he said, “Dubai Government employees are Dubai Government to focus on this type of and Commerce Marketing won Hamdan putting exceptional and pioneering efforts impressions, as positive experiences can bin Mohamed Program’s Flag for Smart to make sure that all people dealing with the enrich the quality of gathered data to be Government; a flag that it will proudly carry city’s government are pleased”, he added, analyzed and studied to benefit from all for a whole year. “thus, with applying the smart interactive positive practices, along with sharing these HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktom forum initiative, we spot the light on these practices among different governmental handed the honorary shield to RTA who won efforts with the help of our customers”. sectors and circulating them if possible. the “Number One Award” for Bus Services, His highness also stated, “We are always keen Honoring after providing many creative initiatives on providing the chance for our customers The annual awards ceremony started with throughout the year to enhance this service. to share their different types of experiences playing the national anthem, followed by a Along with “Best New Governmental Service” with Dubai Government”, he added, “Because creative artistic show expressing the effects that went for service of the RTA, we believe in the importance of reaching out to customers, listening to their needs, and understanding their expectations. The ‘5D’ initiative is launched to focus on the positive experiences with our customers, where lots of lessons can be learnt from the different success stories that we happily share with the world”. He clarified that negative experiences have been handled years ago through establishing a system to take customers’ complaints documenting services’ challenges. Furthermore, a system for suggestions has been introduced documenting clients’ suggestions and notes to enhance

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RTA celebrated winning 11 awards in Hamdan bin Mohamed Program for Smart Government, where H.E. Matar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of Board of Directors, along with executive managers, and department heads, cut more than 11 cakes in the while “Tamm” initiative for the “Red Team” HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum honors of this huge victory. won City Builders competition in the Best honored the winning team in City Builders HE Matar Al Tayer praised Governmental Partnership category including competition, which is an initiative launched RTA employees’ efforts, their RTA, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed in last insistence on excellence, and Dubai Municipality, and Mohamed bin Rashed year’s annual ceremony. The competition their perseverance in their work. Housing Foundation. blossomed with 14 pioneering initiatives He ensured that this huge victory is the fruit of the employees’ dedication, and their one-team spirit. He also stressed on the fact all employees are keen on keeping up with the consecutive rapid development in the different fields, along with applying modern management concepts, elevating the performance level and taking care of the human resources, and encouraging creativity and innovative spirit in the work environment.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 9 from the four participating teams in the first work with the intention of making positive provided by RTA has won, in cooperation gathering that was held in Skydive Dubai at changes in the governmental services, and with Dubai Municipality and Dubai Electricity the beginning of this year. For the year 2015, to ensure that all these entities are one & Water Authority. The “Best Website” the “Red Team” won for their electricity and consistent and cooperative body that thrives award was honored to water services and the hanging no objection to achieve customers’ satisfaction. website, while Dubai Tourism and Commerce certificates. This team includes RTA, Dubai As for providing services using smart phones Marketing Department won “Best Pioneering Municipality, Mohamed bin Rashed Housing category, RTA won two awards. The first was Governmental Initiative” for “E-Tickets” Foundation, and Dubai Electricity and Water for RTA’s smart application, and the other is initiative. Authority. Each of the four team members for “Smart Roads” application. The category This year, “Al Barsha Center” from Dubai received “City Builders Competition” trophy, also included many winning applications Roads and Transportation Authority won the which is divided into four unique individual including, “Dubai Police” application from “Best Customer Service Center” award. Salik’s trophies that smartly integrate together to General Command of Dubai Police, “Tifli” (My communication center, of the RTA as well, won make a beautiful architectural piece. Each Baby) Application provided by Dubai Health the “Best Communication Center” award, sector gets to keep a part of this trophy to Authority, and “DEWA” application provided which has been launched for the first time express their continuous cooperation with by Dubai Electricity & Water Authority. In the this year to honor the best communication the other government sectors partners, along Customer Segments Category (Joint Smart center based on the unified standards set by with taking pride in the serious and creative Application), “Business Sector Services” Dubai’s Prototype Center at the beginning

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RTA has received many congratulation bouquets and letters in celebration of winning 11 awards in Hamdan bin Mohamed Program for Smart Government. His Excellency Matar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Directors in the RTA, was congratulated by General Command of Dubai Police through HE Major General Abdulrahman Rafie, Assistant Commander in Chief of Dubai Police Affairs for Community Service and Equipement, in which he passed the sincere of this year. “Al Markabat Police Station” HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum also congratulations from His Excellency received “Best Joint Customer Service” award honored individual winners for the different Major General Khamis Matar Al Mazyana, that includes General Command of Dubai categories, where Abdulla Al Bastaki, RTA’s Commander General of Dubai Police, for Police, Dubai Courts, and Public Prosecution. Information Technology Manager, won the authorities great victory. A similar Furthermore, the initiative “Shiryan” (Artery) “Smart Integration Super Star” award, and letter was received from Dubai Electricity provided by Dubai Health Authority won Tina Barton won “Best Communication and Water Authority, passed by Engineer “Best Partnership with People” award, “Smart Center Manager” award. The “Year’s Best Waleed Salman, Executive Vice President Case Management” system provided by Creative Leader” awards was received by Ms. of Strategy & Business Development, Dubai Women and Child Care Foundation Ghanima Al Buhairi from Dubai Women and in which he expressed the sincere won “Best Internal Cooperation”, and “We Child Care Foundation, while “Best Creative congratulations from His Excellency Saeed Feed You” initiative provided by Dubai Health Team” award was given to Dubai Health Mohamed Al Tayer, Managing Director Authority won “Best Partnership with Private Authority team, and “Best Customer Service and Chairman Executive Officer for DEWA, Sectors” award. Manager” award went to Mr. Esa Ebrahim Al in this happy occasion.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 11 Our News

For the first time in the MENA region RTA to host 27th International Railway Safety Conference in 2017

The International Railway Safety Council (IRSC) has announced the selection of Dubai as a venue for hostingthe 27thInternational Railway Safety Conference 2017, which will be the first time for the Conference to be held in the MENA region. The event will offer an international platform for sharing expertise and identifying innovative solutions in the rail safety industry that is witnessing a remarkable growth in the Middle East in general and the Gulf region in particular. A statement to this effect was made in the final communiqué of the Conference held in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Conference, which was first held in 1990 as a result of an initiative from the Japan Rail Association, is considered a special gathering of rail safety professionals from around the world and is run on a non-commercial, not-for-profit basis. It is a 5-day long event and Chairman of the Board of of Dubai and its ability to host and and compromises of technical Executive Directors of the Roads and deliver international events in style. presentations and site visits. The IRSC Transport Authority (RTA), expressed “RTA will invite to this event a great focuses discussion on railway safety, his delight over the hosting of lineup of rail safety management and provides a forum for an in-depth the International Railway Safety executives, rail operators, exchange of experience and lessons Conference by the RTA.He considered maintenance contractors, railway for improving rail safety and sharing this announcementa testament to the societies, and accident investigators of global best practices. confidence pinned by international among others,” said Al Tayer. HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General organizations in the global standing “RTA attaches considerable attention

12 to security & safety; which is incorporated in its vision where “RTA has an impressive record in the safety takes precedence to smooth implementation of safety standards to the rail transit (Safe & Smooth Transport projects at world-class standards like the Dubai for All). Safety and environmental Metro and Dubai Tram; which have recorded a sustainability are also one of the safety level better than the acceptable global strategic goals of the RTA. The rate of one accident per million working hours. compliance with health & safety RTA adopted the highest standards of rail safety standards in RTA projects is one and has signed several agreements and MoUs of the core values, which cannot with global entities such as the Rail Safety Office be waived or compromised under in the UK, SMRT in Korea (Singapore)and others. any circumstances. All projects Moreover, the organizational chart of the RTA undertaken, underway or to be has an independent department affiliated to the undertaken in future by the RTA Strategy & Governance Sector named Safety, are designed and implemented Risk Regulation and Planning Department that at the highest safety levels and caters to planning, policies, licensing, regulations, environmental requirements. investigation in accidents, auditing and monitoring. They are subjected to a thorough The RTA has also established quality, health, safety assessment during all construction and environment units in various agencies & phases to verify the compatibility sectors and culminated its efforts in this regard by of construction processes with the launching the Safety Award in 2009 to decorate international standards relating to entities, companies and individuals who have made projects safety,” added Al Tayer. excellent contributions in the field of safety.”

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 13 Occasions

44 national, heritage events in celebration of National Day 44 taxicabs, 10 bus stops wrapped up by national flags

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), attended RTA’s UAE 44th National Day two- day celebrations, which included 44 heritage events that reflected the Spirit of the Union.

14 Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 15 and his brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, along with their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the emirates, the UAE has made impressive economic, developmental, social and urban achievements enabling it to take a prominent figure worldwide, and a global business, financial, and tourist hub. “The prestigious standing enjoyed by the UAE is also ascribed to the Commenting on the events, Al Tayer His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed wise approach adopted by our said: “Thanks to the wise leadership of Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, prudent leaders in foreign policy, as

16 Occasions

its deeply rooted history & cultural well as regional and international legacy,” continued Al Tayer. relations based on the principles of “The Spirit of the Union epitomizes good neighborliness & friendship, the idea associated with the respecting international conventions, constituents of the UAE Federation and offering humanitarian help to derived from the vision of the late sisterly countries all over the world Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to alleviate their sufferings. Although and continued by our wise leaders, the economic, social and urban led by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa achievements made so far are unique bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the by all standards, the real miracle is UAE. represented in grooming the human Variety of events capabilities through science, thought, Mattar Al Tayer, accompanied by culture and all forms of knowledge scores of CEOs and directors, toured that contributed to boosting the the 44-shaped Heritage model, that development drive,” added Al Tayer. comprises 44 booths to display the “December 2nd has remained a products made by RTA’s employees source of pride for all since the UAE had been founded in 1971, rendering it the most successful world. This has paved the way for drive, which enabled the UAE to take unionist model across the Arab the blessed renaissance and progress such a prestigious position befitting

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 17 to showcase their skills and creativity in diverse project management areas. The booths included a handmade products stand, and an old therapeutic herbs & perfumes corner, in addition to a popular food buffet. Events also included a workshop for drawing the UAE’s map in the shape of the national flag, and a heritage event where traditional dances of Ayyalah and Youla were performed. Some areas were designated for the RTA’s nursery children to play UAE federation-themed edutainment games, in addition to organizing prized contests for employees and children. The RTA has decorated main roads in Dubai with 1000 flags in and wrapped up 44 taxicabs as well as 10 bus stations, World Trade Center Metro Station, 3 buses, one , one ferry and one water taxi using UAE flag. 100 flags have also been fitted to RTA Head Office, Public Transport Agency premises, and the Main customers service center. 300 flags have been fixed on the roofs of RTA Head Office, and the event included traditional tents near metro stations offering traditional cuisine, gifts and entertainment spots to children. “The RTA has also distributed gifts to customers of service centers, and driving institutes, and provided a buffet for traditional dishes at RTA Head Office. Entertainment events included the outdoor traditional kitchen, Ayala band, and martial arts band to chant patriotic songs.

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Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 19 File issue

Based on leadership, supremacy and impact The innovation strategy endorsed to enhance RTA’s leading role

The Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), chaired by HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, has endorsed the new Innovation Strategy of RTA based on three key drivers; leadership, supremacy and impact. The strategy is aimed at empowering the RTA to deliver inspiring innovation for the present and future generations.

“Innovation is the exceptional change aim is to realize the vision of Dubai internal efficiency through sustained that prompts all parties to improve Government in making Dubai the improvements of internal operations products, services and business smartest city worldwide. The second with the aim of maintaining the processes in a way that generates is the achieving of excellence in high profile of the RTA as a patron a sustainable added value to all RTA services and products through of innovation. The sixth is the community segments,” said Al Tayer. offering 7-star customer services. economic growth of Dubai aimed “Through its innovation strategy, the The third is the integrated mobility towards enhancing the sustainable RTA is seeking to assume a leading means with the aim of providing development of the Emirate. position in the field of transport at high-class mobility experience in “The strategy classified innovation the regional and global levels, excel Dubai city and meeting the future into three types; the first is gradual in delivering services and products needs of an integrated transportation innovation; which relates to the to customers, and generate a and infrastructure. The fourth aspect development of better, faster and substantial impact at various levels spotlighted by the strategy is the cost-effective services and products through coping with all challenges in safety & environmental sustainability which do not lead to generating the way of realizing its vision of Safe with the aim of maintaining the above-average returns. This sort & Smooth Transport for All. welfare of Dubai residents & of innovation contributes to “The innovation strategy has visitors, and playing a leading role improvements in the performance, identified six areas to focus on. The in conserving the environment. The cost and value added to customer first is the smart city where the fifth element is the improvement of by a rate ranging from 2 to 25%. The

20 second type is the core innovation; Three years ago, the RTA launched creative and innovative projects which is associated with a core the Creativity & Knowledge Week highlighted by the Dubai Metro and change in technology used or the initiative as an annual event, Dubai Tram projects, which have business model of products & comprising a series of events and contributed to coaxing a quantum services that lead to improvements activities including the Knowledge shift in mass transit systems in in performance, cost and value Cup and Creativity Contest. It has Dubai emirate. Another flagship added by more than 25%. The third also invited leading figures to share project undertaken by the RTA is type is the transitional innovation their success stories with employees, transformation of all services into (root) concerned with setting and conducted short courses of smart services designed to be new structures for competition in relevance to its business domain. In innovative and user-friendly. The technologies or cost, besides bringing recent years, the RTA has radically RTA has also inaugurated the Smart about a revolution in technologies, changed its practices in “Innovation Mall service, the first of its kind business models or creating an added Management” rendering it an worldwide, in five Metro stations, value to the customer. integral part of the corporate system. where users can do shopping via The strategy classified RTA’s In 2014 it developed a Research, innovative, interactive screens. innovations into four key areas. The Development and Innovation The RTA has also embarked on first is leadership & management; Section, affiliated to the Office of the installation of 100 smart air- which relates to the adoption of the Director-General and Chairman conditioned bus shelters fitted with innovative practices in leadership, of the Board of Executive Directors, free internet service enabling riders innovation culture, development and set up innovation teams in all to process a variety of services. The of administrative programs, and affiliated sectors and agencies. It has RTA is currently considering the use management & governance systems. also launched an annual Scientific of smart driverless vehicles in Dubai, The second area is a business Research award, and established an as part of its efforts to introduce model designed in a way specifying Innovation Lab concerned with the cutting-edge technologies in smart how the RTA can promote, sell implementation of the best global mobility to be used in Expo 2020. It and deliver value to customers. practices in various RTA’s work fields. is also mulling the introduction of the The third is operation & processes The RTA has also endorsed the outline Smart Rental initiative through the which is focused on innovation in of corporate researches, together deployment of dedicated vehicles to improving operation procedures with the corporate research plan for lift mass transit users (particularly & methodologies and harnessing 2015-2021. Dubai Metro riders) to their final them towards serving customers, The RTA has accomplished several destinations. streamlining services offered and stepping up internal efficiency. The fourth areas is products & services covering the introduction of new products & services or improving the existing ones. Innovation Methodology The RTA has accorded special attention to creativity and innovation and was keen to impart it in its various projects as it believes that its growth, progress and competitiveness in excellence fields depends largely on its innovation methodology, thus giving added value to all its projects and services to overcome transport challenges in Dubai emirate.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 21 Innovation is a subject of global demand for leveraging economic growth (Innovation Bus) leads Innovation Week to Projects Gallery at Noor Bank Station HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has attended, in the presence of CEOs, Directors and scores of RTA employees, the launch of the Innovation Week held by the RTA in implementation of the directives of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, declaring 2015 as a Year of Innovation. The event is also aligned with the launch of the National Innovation Strategy by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, with the aim of contributing to the fruition of the UAE Vision 2021.

The Innovation Week held by out an idea of a project or a service the components of the Bus. The Bus the RTA encompasses an array to customers, we have to take into is fitted with high-tech systems and of distinguished events including consideration from the beginning interactive screens as well as office lectures, seminars, workshops, the need of people for this project equipment enabling the holding innovation gallery, Innovation Bus or service such that it can deliver its of mini training courses about plying all areas of Dubai, Innovation objectives, and we must ensure the innovation issues. Cinema, and a training camp for optimal utilization of the existing As part of the events of the first students in collaboration with Enjaz human, technical or informational day, Al Tayer opened the Innovation among other events. resources,” said Kelly. Gallery at Noor Bank Metro Station The event, which was kick-started by a exhibiting models of innovative lecture delivered by the international Innovation Bus projects accomplished by the RTA and expert Tom Kelly, Partner & Al Tayer then launched the Innovation those to be undertaken in future. Al Founder of IDU Graphic Designs Bus which will tour all part of Dubai Tayer toured the Gallery comprising and Development, was attended by during the Innovation Week. Al Tayer projects such as the metro, tram, Mattar Al Tayer and a host of RTA attended to a briefing by Ms. Laila water canal, union oasis as well as the leaders and staffs, and focused on the Faridoon, Executive Director of the electrical bus and the hybrid taxi and best innovation practices worldwide. Director General and Chairman of self-service kiosks deployed at vital “When we roll the Board of Executive Directors areas and malls. cum Head of RTA Innovation Strategy “Innovation has a global appeal, and Committee, about economically advanced countries are vying to adopt its concepts and

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Innovation is a subject of global demand for leveraging economic growth (Innovation Bus) leads Innovation Week to Projects Gallery at Noor Bank Station

practices as they appreciate its role in smart apps. It has recently launched established a research and innovation driving the economic growth. It is a the Smart Mall; the first of its kind section in 2014, launched the smart key element in building a knowledge- worldwide, in five metro stations innovation strategy, and established based sustainable economy. The RTA enabling shoppers to use creative an innovation lab focused on the best recognized that its advancement and interactive screens. It has also global practices within the business competitiveness rests largely on the embarked on the construction of 100 domain of the RTA; which will innovation methodology and the smart air-conditioned bus shelters contribute to realizing RTA’s vision of added value of all transit-oriented offering riders free internet. Safe and Smooth Transport for All,” projects & services in Dubai. The RTA “The RTA has a standing innovation added Al Tayer. is dedicating its efforts to realize the committee to develop plans, transport means, and reduce aspirations of our leadership to rank programs and initiatives vehicle ownership as Dubai the smartest city in the world contributing to the well as carbon and has therefore adopted innovative realization of the emissions. solutions to the mobility challenges leadership. It in Dubai. has also Smart Vehicles “Thanks to the government support, “The RTA is currently mulling innovation has been integrated in the use of smart autonomous vehicles in Dubai as part of its efforts the services offered to make people to utilize sophisticated technologies in happier. RTA’s projects, which are achieving smart mobility with the aim of highlighted by the Dubai Metro applying the concept during Expo 2020. and Tram, have brought a paradigm It is also considering the Smart Rental shift in the mass transit systems in initiative where dedicated vehicles Dubai. The RTA has also succeeded could be deployed to ease the mobility of public transport riders, especially in transforming all customer services the metro, to their final destinations. into smart, creative and user-friendly Such initiative will also increase services where 173 services are the ridership of public offered in smart platforms through 10

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 23 A camp to train students on transit innovation tools

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with the Injaz UAE organization, is holding a training camp at H Hotel to familiarize participants with innovation concept. Students will be trained on the tools of innovation with special focus on transportation.

More than 32 thousand students have presence of representatives of 9 and customers’ levels through coping benefited from Injaz UAE program government bodies namely: Dubai with challenges in the way of realizing with the assistance of more than 3 Police, Dubai Municipality, Dubai our vision of Safe and Smooth thousand private sector volunteers in Customs, Telecommunication Transport for All. more than 47 schools and universities Regulatory Authority, Dubai Sports Events included a lecture delivered since 2005. This cooperation included Council, Public Prosecution, JAFZA, by the international expert Tom Kelly, a galaxy of distinguished events , and Dubai Chamber. The Partner & Founder of IDU Graphic launched by the RTA as part of its RTA spotlighted three aspects on Designs and Development, who shed participation in the UAE Innovation which its innovation strategy is light on the best innovation practices Week a few days ago. The RTA was based: the first is leadership in the worldwide. Discussion panels were keen to showcase its role through field of transport at the regional and held at Al Wasl Auditorium for the this event in turning innovation into a global levels. The second superiority winners of the Dubai Government reality to be achieved on the ground. in delivering services, products and Excellence Program (2014-2015) The RTA has screened its innovation activities, and the third is bringing a in the categories of the innovative strategy at the Head Office in the substantial impact at social, financial employee, innovative idea, and

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the distinguished government employee where winners spoke about their practices until reaching the decoration stage. There was a great interaction between attendees and winners involving questions Injaz UAE about the concept of innovation. is a member in Junior The innovation cinema targeted Achievement Foundation, inspectors and drivers segment the largest non-governmental Global where several inspiring footage were Foundation and the fastest growing of the displayed prompting the audience to young people business devoted to educating and adopt the innovation concept and grooming students to the job market. Injaz UAE make a style of working and thinking. has forged partnerships with the private sector, The RTA has launched bus named educational institutions & volunteers. They work “Innovation Bus - The UAE Innovates” together to inspire students and develop their that toured Dubai. The Bus is skills to enable them make financial and economic equipped with all the technical and successes. The Foundation also promotes the logistical equipment required for cooperation between volunteers and students and organizing mini-training sessions oversees the readiness of the job market, leads about innovation topics through business, and eliminates financial and economic which the public is apprised of the literacy through training programs and practical innovation-conducive tools, besides experiences. It also reviews the distributing related books. The RTA relationship between work shared innovative ideas with the and life in the 21st participants about some issues they century. face with the RTA services. The RTA also wrapped some Dubai Tram come carriages with posters about UAE up with a rendering Innovation Week as part of media visualization of the Dubai the promotional efforts of the event. It future of transport in the number one city in the has also held a gallery at Noor Bank . world. The RTA has introduced Station exhibiting models for the Ms. Leila Faridon, Executive Director innovative solutions to overcome diffusion of knowledge and inspiring of the Office of the Director General transportation challenges in Dubai the public to interact with the UAE Office and Chairman of the Board of emirate. Thanks to kind support of Innovation Week. Executive Directors cum Head of the our prudent leadership, the RTA The RTA also held a special event Supervisory Committee of Innovation managed to integrate innovation where the Strategy and Corporate Strategy, RTA, said: The UAE into the services delivered to make Governance Sector of the RTA held Innovation Week represents a pillar people happy, and has accomplished the government innovation lab about for the desired future of our society, a number of innovative projects. the future of transport involving by embracing this concept as it has participants from the RTA and beyond. become an essential ingredient of A number of public transport riders progress and prosperity of societies. also took part and a professional The RTA has made strenuous efforts For more information, please artist was invited to portray and to achieve the vision and aspirations visit the websites: www.injazuae. embody ideas discussed in order to of our wise leadership aimed at org or www.jaworldwide.org.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 25 20 ideas rose from the technical testing development laboratory

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has recently held two innovation labs as part of its commitment to the initiative and directives of the Government to hold innovation labs. The objective of these labs is to leverage the performance through discussing creative ideas capable of generating a high-class business environment in the Emirate of Dubai.

The first of these two labs was held by at the Dubai Tram Depot at Al Sufouhin the of Dubai. The Agency, she says, conducts the Traffic and Roads Agency and tackled presence of several external consultants, and periodic studies to examine and implement short-term solutions for traffic congestions. students of Higher Colleges of Technology in the best traffic solutions for snarls on the Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of RTA’s addition to a bunch of experts & employees basis of established procedures at the Traffic and Roads Agency, delivered an of the Agency. Maitha expressed the highest global standards. Solutions include opening speech in which she touched on the keenness of the Agency to ensure a smooth widening of roads by adding more lanes, or highlights of the workshop, which was held flow of traffic on all highways & streets introducing new entry & exit points capable Innovative workshop about delivering NOL card, e-Wallet services RTA’s Corporate Technical Support Services Sector has recently held agovernment innovation worship under the slogan (We Meet, Think, Innovate and Advance) to discuss how to be innovative in delivering NOL card and e-Wallet services. Abdullah Al Madani, CEO of RTA’s Corporate Technical Support Services Sector had attended the workshop, which took place at the Government Innovative Lab of RTA at the Dubai Tram Depot, Al Sufouh. Attendees also included directors, managers and a host of RTA employees, one representative of strategic partners (Land & Properties Dep’t), a number of university students, and the team of the Government Innovation Lab.

This creative step comes within the context a superb working environment in the can generate cracking ideas that form the of RTA’s commitment to the initiative Emirate of Dubai. blueprints of creative initiatives to leverage and directives of our government for “The workshop discussed a host of vital RTA’s excellence drive of serving various holding Government Innovation Labs with topics focused on simplifying the services community segments, especially NOL card the aim of improving the performance and procedures for NOL card users in holders. Discussion also covered several through discussing innovative ideas that order to overcome the existing challenges issues related to the e-Wallet and how can effectively contribute to nurturing encountered. Such brainstorming sessions to innovate in delivering this service to

26 File issue of realizing RTA’s vision of Safe and Smooth vehicles service of RTA highlighting the vehicles manufacturers among other Transport for All. evolution of the technical testing phases challenges. “In the near future we will introduce starting from the visual inspection to A presentation was also made about the a variety of solutions to address traffic the automatic testing, the introduction global practices of technical testing of congestions in several hotspots across the of sophisticated testing instruments, vehicles by an international expert who Emirate using intelligent traffic systems,” developing a central system for all made a number of suggestions and ideas added Maitha. A visual presentation was testing centers, and standardizing testing for improving the technical testing process made to examine the key challenges of proceduresbefitting the technological in the Emirate of Dubai. short-term solutions for tailbacks in a advancement of automanufacturing. Bahrozyan commended the positive role brainstorming session to thrash out new The presentation also shed light on the of the lab in encouraging employees to ideas and approaches to the service expansion of the facilities of technical contribute smart, pioneering, effective improvement and proposed initiatives. testing services from 2 to 25 centers and 4 and sustainable solutions in order The second lab was held by the Licensing auto dealers, and examined an expansion to figure out the best procedures of Agency entitled: “Improving Procedures plan for testing centers and technical vehicles testing, considering the multiple of Technical Testing of Vehicles. The aim of workshops in the Emirate of Dubai. challenges in hand. “This has prompted the lab was to develop innovative solutions The presentation showed that until us to hold this innovative lab in a bid to for streamlining the technical testing September 2015 about 1,091,332 light come up with appropriate solutions that procedures in order to develop a faster and vehicles, and 126,183 heavy vehicles meet the needs of community members more accurate testing regime accessible have been tested in Dubai that brings and conform to the strategic goals of RTA to customers everywhere. The session the total number of vehicles tested to “People’s Happiness,” he said. was attended by , CEO 1,217,515 vehicles. It also indicated the “Participants in the session came up with of Licensing Agency, directors, and service challenges experienced by the technical 20 excellent innovative ideas, which will providers of technical testing of vehicles testing of vehicles, such as the lack of soon be studied and further developed and the supply of technological and smart qualified human resources, variation in in order to implement them in the near instruments. the perception of the extent or gravity future and serve the main objective A visual presentation was made in the of defects by examiners, and the fast of improving the technical testing session about the technical testing of technological advancements made by procedures,” added Bahrozyan.

customers,” said Al Madani. During the workshop, two visual presentations were made covering streamlined procedures and services to RTA’s NOL card/e-Wallet users along with a detailed explanation of processes of the Government Innovation Lab at the RTA. A brainstorming session was held to generate order to develop appropriate solutions that highest standards to nurture an inspiring fresh ideas for improving services and meet the needs of community members innovative environment, a platform developing initiatives in this regard. in line with RTA’s strategic goal of bringing for presenting and debating ideas, and Al Madani praised the positive impact of happiness to people. interactive display monitors enabling such initiatives as they prompt the personnel It is noteworthy that RTA’s innovative lab, the sharing of visual contents between concerned to come up with smart, creative, which is situated at the Dubai Tram Depot at members. These monitors can be interfaced pioneering, effective and sustainable Al Sufouh, is considered the first government with smartphones & handheld computers solutions for the best procedures of testing innovation lab in Dubai. It comprises training of participants enabling wireless display of vehicles, considering the diverse challenges halls fitted with sophisticated equipment, contents. The lab also contains supporting in this regard. This, says Al Madani, has areas for holding brainstorming sessions, a facilities such as a rest hall, prayer room, motivated us to hold this innovative lab in gorgeous innovation club designed at the and meeting halls.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 27 Achievements IPRA award for Best Media Marketing of Smart Apps The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has scooped the Golden International Public Relations Association (IPRA) Award in the category of Consumer PR For An Existing Service -Inhouse . The award culminates RTA’s efforts in running promotional campaigns through the Marketing & Corporate Communication Department showcasing smart apps developed in respect of a variety of RTA services.

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General keep up with RTA’s enhanced image developed for RTA’s services,” said and Chairman of the Board of Executive when it comes to adopting the best Moaza.“RTA’s submission to the Award Directors of the RTA accepted the government practices. included a number of smart apps award from Ms. Moaza Al Marri, “The RTA has managed to scoop IPRA launched such as the smart Salik, Director of Marketing & Corporate Award in Johannesburg despite highly smart parking, public transport, drivers Communication (MCC) and the Award’s competitive submissions made; which & vehiclesin addition to corporate team. Al Tayer expressed his delight reflects the innovative efforts of the services. Such apps complement RTA’s with the accolade and called for yet internal team of the MCC Department apps structure like Wojhati, RTA, and extra efforts to maintain the excellent in undertaking a professional approach the smart taxi. Such promotional and corporate performance achieved, and towards promoting the smart apps marketing campaigns contributed to

In fulfillment of the requirements of the Dubai Data Law The completion of 80% of RTA’s data classification The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed the classification of 80% of its data in fulfillment of the requirements of the Dubai Data Law introduced by the Dubai Government in the mid of last October. The law provides for delivering clear-cut principles & procedures obliging all government and semi-government entities in the Emirate of Dubai to open their databases and share them with other departments. The aims of the law is to integrate and standardize the Dubai Data, deliver uniform & integrated services to the public, and present a clear and full picture to decision makers in various public and semi-public departments as regards a variety of all economic, social, urban and planning activities in the Emirate.

Abdullah Al Madani, Chairperson of implementation of this Law. He noted a standard platform for data in the the Dubai Open Data Committee in that the Law had set well defined Emirate. Such a platform will enable the Government of Dubai cum Head procedures for classifying data in the sharing of data between operating of the Dubai Smart City Project, Dubai and a number of standards entities of the Emirate with a view and CEO of the Corporate Technical for databases, and following up the to nurturing an integrated legislative Support Services Sector at the RTA broadcasting & sharing of data with environment capable of driving the reiterated RTA’s commitment to the various entities aiming to develop development of the city towards

28 raising the awareness of the smart Communication Section at the MCC the social media (Facebook, Twitter), services and their role in making Department, is a testament to the text and Whatsapp messages. The peoples life easier in terms of saving importance of media marketing in the trend has become more relevant given time & effort; which reflects positively services industry across the globe. RTA’s growing smart apps offering, on the satisfaction of clients, and the The RTA has been well aware of this rendering the delivery of multiple happiness of people,” she added. trend as reflected in the full mobilizing services just at a click of a button on The Award, which was collected of resources to communicate and a smartphone; enabling the serving of at Johannesburg by Ms. Khulood interact with various media channels, local community needs using best-in- Al Sharaf, Manager of Media be it written, audio or visual as well as class standards.

In fulfillment of the requirements of the Dubai Data Law making it the smartest worldwide. the approved policies, and employing required, which will open new Al Madani summarized RTA’s staffs with specific qualifications innovation avenues for investors in the The completion of 80% of RTA’s data classification commitment towards fulfilling the to undertake the classification and digital economy, and complement the requirements of the Open Data management of RTA data, and supply legislative structure of the Dubai Smart Law through classifying its data, the competent bodies with any City,” added Al Madani. broadcasting open data according to information or reports needed in this “The Law will also enhance the controls & principles provided for in regard. It is noteworthy that the initial integration between the services the Dubai Data Directory, drawing up phase of the implementation process, delivered by federal and local a plan for broadcasting and sharing which has been endorsed by the government bodies, maximize the RTA’s data according to the approved Executive Committee of Dubai Smart benefit from data available with data timeline, taking procedures necessary City, covered RTA in addition to a host providers, and improve the transparency for broadcasting and updating the open of other government departments. In of sharing data between data providers. and shared data to ensure its quality, the contest of its efforts to fulfill the It will also set the pillars for governance and complying with the principles of requirements of the Law, RTA has run a in broadcasting data and step up the confidentiality and patency rights. number of relevant initiatives including efficiency of services provided by Commitments also include staging a contest for university students federal and local government offices modification of the infrastructure released by the end of last July, setting to customers in terms of quality of (devices, systems, and information) to up of a team to implement the Dubai deliverables, speed of processing, enable RTA broadcast and share data Data Law in RTA, and completing simplified procedures, and operational online, handling of incoming data from several supporting projects. “The new costs besides effectively contributing to other data providers in accordance with Law sets the legislative structures people’s happiness.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 29 Our projects

The new project extends 57 Km Cycling lanes in Warqaa, Mushrif, Mirdif, Mizhar & Khawaneej The Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), chaired by HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA has endorsed awarding a contract for constructing two cycling & running tracks projects at Warqaa, Mushrif, Mirdif, Mizhar and Khawaneej. The tracks, which extend 57 km and cost about AED79 million, will be constructed during a 12 months period.

“The construction of the dedicated districts is conducive to the practicing with three bridges for the combined cycling and running tracks projects of sport as it has immense health use of cyclists & pedestrians at in the Emirate of Dubai is a benefits for community members. Al Khawaneej at a cost of AED52 manifestation of the directives of The project is part of a master plan million. The other project covers the HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid developed by RTA for providing construction of cycling & running Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime dedicated cycling & running tracks tracks spanning 25 km at Warqaa Minister of the UAE and Ruler of covering the entire Emirate to be along with a bridge for the combined Dubai. This projectis to implement environment-friendly mobility means use of cyclists & pedestrians at Tripoli the instructions of HH Sheikh for cycling enthusiasts. Advanced Road at a cost of AED27 million,” he Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid countries focus on raising the rate of noted. Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince trips made by walking and cycling,” “These districts were selected on and Chairman of theDubai Sports said al Tayer. the basis of several perimeters Council, to provide suitable options “The first project covers the highlighted by population density, to encourage residents to practice construction of a cycling and running attractiveness to cyclists, surrounding sport and cycling. It also ensures route extending 32 km at Mushrif, areas, suitability of locations & that the infrastructure of residential Mirdif, Mizhar and Khawaneej along existing obstacles, traffic safety, and

30 appeal to pedestrians. Moreover, Road, Latifa bint Hamdan Road, The Plan detailed the standards lanes have been designed in such a Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, of separating cycling tracks from way that provides safety and security Al Barari and up to Nad Al Sheba. pedestrian pathways, and addressed of cyclists,” explained Al Tayer. The 115 km-long cycling tracks at cycling tracks at intersection points. Opening of Seih Assalam – Nad Al Seih Assalam includes several public It also covered the provision of Sheba Track utilities, outlets for renting bikes biking racks in general and at the RTA has recently opened the Dubai & accessories, a fully equipped public transport stations in particular, Cycling Track (Seih Assalam – Nad Al medical clinic, and 10 rest points cycling lanes in entertainment Sheba) stretching about 23 km. The all along the biking lane fitted with areas, materials to be used in the project links with the existing cycling seats and bike racks. construction of routes, and related lane of Seih Assalam at Al Qudra “In 2008, RTA developed a Cycling signage for bikes and tracks,” Road (at the Gate of the Dubai Master Plan that included charting elaborated Al Tayer. Cycling Track), and extends further out routes for bikes whether within “Over the past years, RTA had in the direction of the Emirates the rights-of-way or in separate lanes. constructed biking lanes extending more than 178 km. This includes 115 km at Seih Assalam and Al Qudra Road, 17 km at Jumeirah Road, 11 km at the central area of , and various other districts as well as nearby metro and tram stations. Additionally, RTA is currently undertaking a project for linking the cycling lanes at Seih Assalam, Nad Al Sheba involving the construction of 23 km-long cycling lanes. It has also completed a project for allocating bike racks at stations of the Red and Green lines of the metro as well as the Dubai Tram stations,” he further noted.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 31 Part of a raft of projects endorsed by Mohammed bin Rashid Contract for construction of Academic City Road Project (Phase II), costing AED474 m

RTA has awarded a contract for constructing Phase II of the Academic City Road Project, in implementation of the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice- President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to start construction works in a host of road projects and mass transit systems. HH endorsed these road projects and mass transit systems during a visit he paid to RTA’s HQ last September. The new road, which costs about AED474 million, extends from the Dubai – Al Ain Interchange up to Al Yalayis Road, and is expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2017.

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General plan for improving the infrastructure “The project comprises the and Chairman of the Board of of roads network and mass transit construction of a road of 4 lanes Executive Directors of RTA, said: “The systems in Dubai, and developing in each direction extending 25 km improvement of the Academic City integrated solutions of roads starting from the Dubai – Al Ain Road project is part of RTA’s master network as well as land & marine Interchange up to Al Yalayis Road. plan for improving roads, bridges, transit system that are safe for The project includes the construction crossings and underpasses to cope users, compatible with the sweeping of a bridge at the intersection of the with the rising traffic movement, development plans, responsive to the Academic City Road with Latifa bint and ease the mobility in various needs of demographic growth, and Hamdan Road near the entrance parts of the Emirate. It also comes capable of leveraging development of the Global Village for the traffic in implementation of RTA’s strategic and investment drive in the Emirate. inbound from Emirates Roads along

32 Our projects

“Al Yalyais Road constitutes an additional traffic corridor linking the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and the Emirates Road running parallel to - Lehbab Road. The project will thus play a principal role in diverting a huge portion of traffic movement, especially trucks, from the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road to the Emirates Road. The Road is expected to be used by about 55 thousand vehicles per day, and will have a capacity to handle 6 thousand vehicles an hour per direction,” explained Al Tayer. with a signalized intersection at- the construction of Phase I of covering a 4 km-long sector of two gradeunderneath the bridge. It Improvement of the Extension of the lanes in each direction from the entry also includes the construction of Academic City Road Project costing of Ramram Project up to the existing a temporary roundabout at the about AED67 million, which is slated R/A at the entry of the Dubai Sport intersection with Al Qudra Road, for completion in the second quarter City. The R/A will be converted into a and another signalized intersection of 2016,” stated Al Tayer. signalized junction to ease the traffic at-grade with Hessa Road. RTA, in “Phase I of the project has two movement of residents from and to coordination with Dubai Prosperities sections. The first encompasses the the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Group, has recently started improvement of Hessa Road extension Road. The project will cut short the journey time from 20 to 5 minutes, and serve a plethora of development projects in the neighbourhood such as the , Mudon, Akoya and Dubai Golf City. The other section of the project covers improvement of the road linking the extension of the Academic City Road with the Emirates Road to serve The Villa project in a 2.5 km-long sector of two lanes in each direction. “The new Academic City Road will terminate by linking with Al Yalayis Road, which has recently been completed by RTA, linking the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (at Al Houdh R/A) with the Emirates Road

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 33 Constructing roads in 13 residential districts AED216 million for constructing internal roads at Nad El Sheba & Khawaneej

In implementation of the 5-Year Plan 2012-2016 endorsed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for constructing internal roads in a number of residential districts in Dubai Emirate costing about one AED1 billion, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has recently awarded a contract for constructing internal roads at Nad El Sheba 4 and Al Khawaneej 2 at a cost of AED216 million.

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General urban and demographic expansion undertake road projects in five and Chairman of the Board of in the Emirate and make people residential areas namely: 1, Executive Directors of RTA, said: “The happier. Over the past years, RTA and Jebel Ali Industrial in addition to construction of internal roads at Nad has completed the construction of Al Qusais Industrial Area 3, 4 and 5. El Sheba 4 and Al Khawaneej 2 stems internal roads in 13 residential areas “The internal roads project at from RTA’s commitment to upgrade costing about AED552 million. Work Al Khawaneej 2 will cost about the infrastructure of roads, lighting, is underway in the construction AED127 million and take about 15 and rainwater drainage system in of internal road projects in five months to complete. It comprises residential areas. The project is residential districts costing about the construction of roads network intended to meet the needs of the AED319 million. In 2016, RTA will extending 80 km in length and 7.3 Beware

Data classification Make sure that you know the classification level of your business documents in order to handle them accordingly.

34 Our projects

meters in width for collector roads, “Internal roads at Nad El Sheba will meters for collector roads, and 7 and 7 meters in width for local roads. cost AED89 million, and take about meters for local roads at Nad El It also includes the construction of 420 days to construct; thus all works Sheba 4th (Area 282); which is part roadside parking slots on both sides are expected to be completed at of Nad El Sheba 1 (Area 618). The of roads at a width of 2.5 meters, the beginning of 2017. The project project also includes utility works in addition to street lighting, and covers the construction of roads such as lighting of internal roads and rainwater drainage,” added Al Tayer. extending 56 km at a width of 7.3 rainwater drainage,” noted Al Tayer.

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Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 35 Our Services

Including 50 smart shelters, 150 solar-powered shelters Contract awarded for constructing 400 shelters for Bus Riders (Phase II) The Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), chaired by HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors has recently endorsed the award of a contract for starting the construction of Phase II of Air-Conditioned Bus Shelters Project. The contract, which covers the construction of 400 air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned bus shelters, has been awarded to Right Angle Media Company on the basis of public-private-partnership (Design-Build-Operate-Transfer Model). The project will be complete by the end of 2017, and will bring the total number of bus shelters to as much as 1295.

Phase II of Air-Conditioned Bus of persons in the Emirate from 6% in the Smart Café for selling snacks Shelters Project culminates the 2006 to 20% in 2020 and further to & refreshments and several smart success of the initial phase of 30% by 2030. In 2014, RTA succeeded services. It also includes the the project, which covered the in raising this rate to as much as 14%,” construction of about 150 shelters construction of 895 air-conditioned said Al Tayer. featuring the new design of solar- bus shelters distributed over 656 Solar Power powered shelters involving a creative bus stops. Surveys probing the Al Tayer stated that the new shelters solution for providing shelters in views of users showed a significant will cover areas in different parts of areas where electric power is not increase in the satisfaction with Dubai on the bases of population available. These these shelters amongst bus riders. density, and feedbacks received sheltersare The project conforms to RTA’s from bus riders. Phase II includes the continuous endeavors to achieve construction of about 50 smart air- excellence & leadership through conditioned shelters fitted developing quality projects in the with free internet Emirate of Dubai. service, as “The Air-Conditioned Bus Shelters well as Project is part of a master plan to leverage the public transport sector along with associated infrastructure in the Emirate with the aim of bringing happiness & comfort to riders especially during the blazing summer season. RTA, through this project, seeks to provide an attractive element attracting people to use mass transit means and then push the share of public transport in the daily mobility

36 fitted with solar panels, which will generate and distribute electricity The smart air-conditioned shelter generate electricity enough to power in such a way enabling maximum offers a wide range of services to bus lights of the Bus Stop as well as exposure & concentration of sunlight riders including a free Wi-Fi internet billboards. to convert it into electric power. LED courtesy of Du, NOL card selling & “Providing electricity to power lights will be used to power billboards recharging, mobile phone top-ups, air-conditioned shelters in some to economize on the use of electric payment of bills of government remote areas was one of the key power,” said Al Tayer. departments, and power-charging challenges confronting planners of mobile phones. In addition to at the initial stage of the project. Smart Shelters the Smart Kiosk, the shelter will Therefore, RTA has worked on ways RTA has started the initial phase of display passenger information, offer & means to overcome this issue transforming 100 air-conditioned RTA services as well as interactive by developing cracking solutions shelters into smart shelters in & promotional ads, in addition to to power these shelters through cooperation with Right Angle screens displaying information about solar power technology. The Public Company. 50 of these smart shelters RTA services, besides the selling of Transport Agency embarked on the will be completed this year and the refreshments & snacks. experimentation and assessment remaining 50 will be completed Crescent Shape of the use of solar panels to power next January. Accordingly, the total The uniquely designed crescent- these shelters. number of smart shelters will rise by shaped shelters are manufactured “Shelters will be fabricated of the end of Phase II to 150 shelters. of high quality materials, and using a reinforced polyester-covered This initiative is aligned with RTA’s paints resistant to heat, humidity aluminum in order to protect the strategic goal of bringing happiness and dust. They will also be fitted with structures from tough elements. to people and encouraging them modern air-conditioning systems The seats are made of rigorous, low- to use public transportation. It also and eight seats custom-made to give heat absorption materials for the involves an improvement of the added convenience to users. The convenience of users. The protective public transport infrastructure in a shelter, which can accommodate 13 solar sheets are made of glazed creative style to make it similar to to 16 persons, is also friendly to the material distributed on the basis of metro stations, and a transformation use of disabled persons, and will be an engineering & technical model to a smart city. The drive also involves fitted with screens directly linked preventing the permeation of as improved passenger information with the control room of Public much as possible of sunlight to seated systems, and improved service Transport Agency in order to transmit users. The solar panels are made of satisfaction with the services of information about journeys and high-quality efficient materials to public transport. routes available.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 37 Al Freej Bus lifts 50 thousand riders since debut last July

RTA’s Public Transport Agency lifted more than (50) thousand riders via the bus service branded ‘Al Freej Bus’ that had been launched last July.The new service is proving increasingly popular where its daily rider-ship has leap frogged from 428 riders at the start of operation to as many as 765 riders three months later, recording in the process a 79% growth rate.

The service, which is denoted to Al Barsha 1, 2 and 3 and up to the Transport Agency. as (J01), opens a new bus route vicinity of in a “This initiative has been undertaken restricted to residential districts with 12.2 km-long route serving about 23 following an elaborate field study the aim of providing mobility service thousand residents of these three conducted by the Agency covering to families, seniors, handicapped and districts of Al Barsha. several districts of Dubai to probe the housewives by lifting them from their “Through launching this service, RTA size of demand of residents for a safe homes to business centers, clinics, is seeking to bring more happiness & smooth public bus service. health centers, schools, recreational to targeted brackets by offering “The Al Freej Bus shuttles in a circular facilities and government offices them safe, enjoyable and smooth loop, and may divert its route if a offering a wide range of public transit service availing them a need dictates so, such as delivering services among others. The service chance to socialize with others and elderly or disabled persons. The is proving vitally important in the forge closer relationships amongst bus Route is generally aligned with life of residents and serving their community members,” said Adel the metro stations and bus stops in personal interests. The Route starts Shakri, Director of Planning and Dubai. The fare is payable through from the Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) Business Development of RTA’s Public NOL cards likewise the standard

Voice-over service provided, translator permits abolished 7 additional languages in Theory Knowledge Driving Test The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the endorsement of seven additional languages in the Theory Knowledge Driving Test (the knowledge test needed to obtain vehicle driving license). The service, which enables examinees to select the option of running the text in their mother tongues, is part of RTA’s continuous endeavors to realize its third strategic goal of making people happier.

“The seven languages added are Bengali, Tamil, and Malayalam. over translation accompanying Hindi, Persian, Russian, Chinese, The test material is run in a voice- the text written in the language of

38 Our Services

practice in the Emirate, and riders will be safe and doesn’t undermine villas mostly inhabited by Emiratis may use NOL monthly cards to pay the safety of those on board nor road and GCC citizens, which are currently for the applicable fare,” added Shakri. users or cause accidents. witnessing further developments “Buses dedicated toAl Freej Bus “Al Freej Bus will travel through Al including schools, hospitals, retail service are 12-17 seats, and stops Barsha 1, and pass across a number outlets and others,” he further added. have been specified along the route. of recreational & tourist destinations It is noteworthy that Al Barsha However, the driver may stop at any such as Mall of the Emirates, Matajer, is served by several bus routes place, depending on a request of a 3 to 5-star hotels, hotel apartments, including Routes 84, 93, F29, F30, rider, provided the driver will restaurants, schools, and residential and F33, rendering Al Freej Bus a high make sure that the buildings. At Al Barsha 2 & 3, Al Freej value addition to the safe & smooth s t o p Bus passes by a series of residential mobility aboard public buses and Dubai Metro.

the examinee. This brings the total all permits issued in respect of “Adding more languages to the number of languages available in employees who were previously theory knowledge test for driver the Knowledge Test to 11 languages. entitled to translate the test material license applicants stems from RTA’s Thus the applicant can now avail the have been terminated; which is recognition of the growing number of chance of selecting the preferred an important procedure towards nationalities as well as urbanization test language; which translates into ensuring the transparency and witnessed by the Emirate of Dubai; a better and clearer understanding of neutrality of the test in respect which naturally increases humans’ driving &traffic rules in a way securing of all examinees. Meanwhile, the need of driver licenses. This step the safety of road users as well as the written Arabic language test has been was therefore taken to ensure the examinee (after clearing the tests & amplified with the voice-over service grooming of drivers capable of obtaining the driver license),” said to enhance the audio understanding contributing tothe realization of RTA’s Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of of traffic rules and offer equitable vision of Safe and Smooth Transport RTA Licensing Agency. chances to all applicants,” continued for All,” added the CEO of RTA “With the introduction of this step, Bahrozyan. Licensing Agency.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 39 3 locations offer 24/7 service 45k transactions processed through ‘Nafethati’ The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has revealed that more than 45 thousand transactions have so far been processed through “Nafethati” initiative topped by vehicles licensing service accounting for 56%, followed by seasonal parking cards (31%), and payment of fines (13%).

“The Nafethati initiative is These objectives are aligned part of the Smart Government with RTA’s third Strategic Goal of requirements and the Smart bringing happiness to people,” City initiative launched by the said Ahmed Mahboub, Director Government of Dubai with of Customers Service of RTA’s the aim of raising customers’ Corporate Administrative satisfaction through responding Support Services Sector. to their needs & expectations. “The Nafethati have been

Lifetime of limo extended to 10 years The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the extension of the lifetime of long stretch limousines from 7 to 10 years. However, vehicles falling under this bracket have to pass a specialist technical test to determine their operational condition, and assess whether or not they are fit for continuing transit services following the elapse of 7 years from the start of service.

“This decision will encourage replacement and renewal as the rates offered for the service,” said investment in stretch limo lifecycle of vehicles in operation Adel Shakri, Director of Planning transit activity and support is being extended to 10 years & Business Development, RTA’s entities operating in this field. instead of 7, which will likely be Public Transport Agency. It will also reduce the costs of accompanied by a drop in the “The underlying factor of

40 Our Services

activated at Al Tawar, Al Karama items, seasonal parking cards, and situated at Al Barsha, Al Karama, Al and Al Manar Centers to offer the renewal of driver licenses,” Tawar, Umm Al Romool and Deira. 24-hours service after being explained Mahboub. “Work is currently underway in tentatively relocated outside the “The smart apps used by customers outsourcing this service by the end three premises. Depending on its to process their transactions via of this year in order to expand and success, the experiment will be smartphones or RTA website are deploy the machines across the applied to other centers for the linked with these machines such Emirate and throughout the UAE. sake of offering further assistance that these kiosks act as a channel Other services and fee payment to our customers. Through these for receiving transactions to be options will be provided and machines smart machines customers can processed through smart and will be located in vital locations such process their transactions without e-channels; which is part of a that they become more accessible to seeking assistance from front-end global trend towards standardizing the public,” added Mahboub. employees, which saves their time customers’ service experience. The Currently there are 16 Nafethati & efforts. Services offered through payment of channel is secured by provided at RTA Head Office, Umm these kiosks were increased from the Smart Government of Dubai, Al Romool Center, Deira Center, six to eight, namely: renewal of and all machines are monitored Al Barsha Center, JBR Center, Al vehicles licensing, inquiry/payment by CCTV cameras monitored by Manara Center, Al Awir Center, of fines, printing of certificates, the operating company; which Tasjeel Al Tawar, Tasjeel Al Barsha, issuance of vehicle registration can figure out the condition of Al Qusais Industrial Area 3, Shamil cards, printing of documents, the machines without waiting for Al Muhaisna, Tamam Al Ghandi issuance of vehicles registration complaints from customers. The Center, Wasil Belhasa Center, Al cards instead of damaged/lost most frequently used machines are Karama Center, and Al Tawar Center.

extending the lifespan of deluxe sense to replace vehicles capable to maintaining their efficiency stretch limos is quite logical of offering safe operation. & outlook to fit the nature of judging by the practical business Moreover, there are factories transit services managed by RTA. experience. The deprecation specialized in reconditioning Since RTA is keen on offering rate of this sort of vehicles and refitting bodies of stretch services capable of improving does not match to the extent limos in countries like the US, customers’ satisfaction rating of depreciation sustained by Australia and the UK, which & rising to their expectations, a ordinary limos or taxis. Stretch renders the replacement technical committee has been set Limos are only operated on process more difficult let alone up with members from the Public demand for serving private the exorbitant costs payable by Transport Agency and Licensing functions, important events, or operators,” explained Shakri. Agency to assess the condition of VIPs and celebrities. This means “All vehicles deployed in passenger stretch limos after the elapse of that they remain intact and transport services in Dubai are 7 years in operation, and subject potentially usable for more than subject to a periodic vehicle them to a technical tests to verify 7 years, and it doesn’t make replacement policy with a view their fitness for further operation.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 41 Activities Salik Call Center handles 1.3 m calls this year

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that Salik Call Center had handled about 1.3 million calls received from the public from the start of this year until November last. Calls received were highlighted by inquiries about balance, outstanding journeys, activation & addition of vehicles, change of mobile phone numbers, offences and objections. The Center has also dealt with about 35 thousand electronic messages and furnished responses to them during one working day in average.

“The Center is dealing directly with the a new Salik account, managing Salik of the key service-providing channels.” public in supplying information, serving accounts, submitting applications for Commenting on the work procedure, customer needs, and delivering 24/7 modifying details of Salik accounts, Maitha said: “Salik Call Center is services by handling calls at a rate of updating vehicles status, adding/ manned by 85 employees comprising 4500 to 5000 calls per day. All inquiries removing vehicle registrations, 3 supervisors, 7 team leaders, and 10 are attended to and customers are submitting objections to Salik offences, employees from the quality, e-mail and provided with the information they receiving complaints & suggestions, fax team in addition to 65 competent require, and are assisted to availSalik and caring for feedbacks received from and highly trained employees for Services,” said Engineer Maitha bin individual or corporate customers as responding to calls with the aim of Udai, CEO of RTA’sTraffic & Roads well as public & private entities. The portraying the true image for the Agency. Agency is keen on attending to all Salik Emirate of Dubai to citizens, residents Maitha narrated the services of the channels open to customers, including and visitors. Jobs of these employees system saying: “It covers setting up the Call Center; which is considered one range from receiving calls, managing

Induction workshop about (Dubai Sustainable Transport) RTA’s Higher Organizing Committee of the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport (DAST) has held an introductory workshop for a number of public, private and educational entities in the UAE to highlight all matters of relevance to DAST. The workshop examined the seven categories, and application procedures, and prospects of adding further improvements to the Award.

Abdul Mohsen Ibrahim Younes, CEO benefit organizations across the nation huge impact on the success of previous of Rail Agency and Head of the Higher rather than being restricted to the editions of the Award. Organizing Committee of DAST, said: Emirate of Dubai. The move intended “No doubt DAST, which is privileged “Since launched in 2008, the Award to avail these entities the opportunity by an unfettered support and has been endeavoring to improve to prop up RTA’s efforts and contribute attention from HH Sheikh Hamdan bin processes to keep pace with RTA’s to the advancement of sustainable Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, initiatives & projects. In this regard the transport in the Emirate of Dubai.” He Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of Award engaged different government commended the tremendous efforts the Executive Council, in his capacity & private entities as well as public made by companies which have had a as Patron of the Award, is a practical

42 They are acquainted with the use of the required programs and systems and all service facilities so that they can effectively deal with customers in a perfect environment. The Agency oversees service improvement, quality control, and monitors some calls to assess them in order to identify the service performance and verify quality reports submitted. It also follows-up all statistical reports relating to the systems used in recording and archiving e-mails & incoming requests, and messages such that calls are attended calls,” added Maitha. supervising complaints & suggestions to within 20 seconds, and e-mails & It is noteworthy that over the last five in addition to other audit, quality and fax messages are catered to within one years Salik Call Center has clinched follow-up jobs to ensure high-quality working day at most. 5 awards at the Middle East level levels and attain highest customers’ “Salik Call Center is running a training presented by INSIGHT Middle East, satisfaction rating. program for employees and supervisors besides being nominated to Hamdan “The number of employees built on top-class standards where bin Mohammed Smart Government tasked corresponds to peak hours’ employees are offered training Award in the category of the Best requirements in order to speed up exposures to pick up the requisite skills Government Call Center in the Emirate the handling of calls, e-mails and fax & expertise within one month at most. of Dubai this year.

realization of this vision through making namely: mobility management, mobility sustained efforts to improve the multi- safety, environmental conservation, modal integration of public transport, disabled, school transport, and smart achieving sustainable transport and apps. The special categories are: best thereby contributing to shaping the academic research, best journalist, future of Dubai,” commented Younes. best media organization, best students’ He stated that the workshop was project, and the most frequent users of held in a bid to diffuse the concepts public transport. The workshop focused of sustainable transport amongst on the basic and special awards, and community members, and encourage the procedures of participation. various sectors to adopt best practices Then winners of the 7th DAST 2014 of the industry towards achieving made different presentations about the vision of Dubai in implementing their successful participations. sustainable initiatives for improving the Winners wereCAR Transport, The demonstration of the vision of the RTA quality of living of future generations. Center for Regulation of Transport aimed at providing Safe and Smooth A visual presentation was made during by Hire Cars, Emirates Transport, Transport for All. Moreover, community the workshop spotlighting the objectives Emirates Authority for Standardization organizations contribute to the and seven categories of the award & Metrology, and DP World.

Issue No. 91 Janury 2016 43