Dubai’s RTA launches Naqel buses to ferry passengers heading to neighbouring Emirates

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has launched Naqel Service allowing buses owned by passenger transport companies and licensed in the Emirate to lift passengers arriving in Dubai for returning them to other Emirates. The step is part of RTA’s endeavours to realise its third strategic goal (People Happiness), curb traffic congestion, and avoid returning buses without riders or obliging companies to contract with other firms.

“Naqel Service, which is operative through RTA’s website is an initiative allowing buses owned by passenger transport firms to load passengers arriving in Dubai and lift them for returning to other Emirates. Through this service, permits can be issued to deluxe vehicles owned by companies licensed in other Emirates allowing them to transport passengers from Dubai International Airports. It will be possible to issue permits to drivers of these buses and deluxe vehicles by Drivers Licensing Affairs Department at Public Transport Agency. These permits vary according to their time duration (week, month, six months, year), and the capacity of the bus,” said Mohammed Abu Baker Al Hashmi, Director of Planning and Business Development, Public Transport Agency, RTA.

“The permit is a sticker affixed to the vehicle displaying the company name and the permit number. To avail the service, the company is prompted to visit RTA’s website and open a new account. After signing up, the user can click on ‘Business Sector Services – Naqel Service’, and apply for the permit. A text message and an e-mail message shall be sent to the company conveying approval or otherwise. In case of approval, the representative of the company has to visit the premises of the Public Transport Agency to receive the permit and pay the prescribed fees.

“Works is underway to transform this service in 2018 to an entire e-service whereby fees can be paid online, and the permit can be dispatched to the specified address of the company within two working days. The RTA is always keen to broadening the base of service beneficiaries, and maximising their satisfaction with the aim of making them happier,” added Al Hashimi.