The Roads and Transport Authority is launching a fleet of luxury buses to take passengers between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The Volvo coaches, to be introduced next year, will feature high-end finishes, roomy seats, free internet, USB portals for phone charging, footrests and cup holders.
Each bus has a hydraulic lift to assist people of determination.
The European Emission Standards compliant fleet is the first of its kind in the Mena region.
The 143 coaches are part of a Dh465 million programme that will add 316 buses of various sizes to RTA's fleet, taking the total to 2,085 by 2019.
“The procurement of the new buses is part of a master plan set out to upgrade mass transit systems in Dubai and keep them aligned with the highest global practices,” said Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the board of executive directors.
“The plan also calls for providing best-in-class services to mass transit users and keeping abreast of the sustained growth of ridership of these modes. It conforms to RTA’s endeavours to make public transport the ideal mobility choice of people and push the share of public transport in people mobility to as much as 30 per cent by 2030,” said Mr Al Tayer
At a glance
Global events: Much of the UK’s economic woes were blamed on “increased global uncertainty”, which can be interpreted as the economic impact of the Ukraine war and the uncertainty over Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Growth forecasts: Cut for 2025 from 2 per cent to 1 per cent. The OBR watchdog also estimated inflation will average 3.2 per cent this year
Welfare: Universal credit health element cut by 50 per cent and frozen for new claimants, building on cuts to the disability and incapacity bill set out earlier this month
Spending cuts: Overall day-to day-spending across government cut by £6.1bn in 2029-30
Tax evasion: Steps to crack down on tax evasion to raise “£6.5bn per year” for the public purse
Defence: New high-tech weaponry, upgrading HM Naval Base in Portsmouth
Housing: Housebuilding to reach its highest in 40 years, with planning reforms helping generate an extra £3.4bn for public finances
Ms Yang's top tips for parents new to the UAE
- Join parent networks
- Look beyond school fees
- Keep an open mind
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The specs
Engine: 4.0-litre flat-six
Torque: 450Nm at 6,100rpm
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