Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) reported that 747.1 million riders used public transport, shared mobility, and taxi services in 2024, marking a 6.4% rise from 702 million in 2023. Daily ridership exceeded 2 million, up from 1.92 million in the previous year.
"The sustained growth in public transport ridership is a testament to our commitment to providing world-class mobility solutions in Dubai," said Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.
The total trips taken across all transport modes reached 153 million, with taxis accounting for over 115 million trips. Shared mobility services recorded approximately 32 million trips. Luxury transport services, including limousines, served 19 million riders.
Busiest months
November saw the highest ridership, reaching 69.9 million, followed by October with 68.4 million and December at nearly 68 million. Other months recorded ridership between 54 million and 65 million.
Dubai Metro expansion
Dubai Metro remained the backbone of the city’s public transport, carrying 275.4 million riders in 2024—an increase of 6% from 2023. BurJuman and Union stations, serving both the Red and Green Lines, handled the most passengers, with 16.2 million and 12.9 million riders, respectively.
"Dubai Metro continues to be the preferred mode of transport for millions of residents and visitors. Our focus remains on enhancing its efficiency and expanding its reach," Al Tayer stated.
On the Red Line, Al Rigga station had the highest ridership at 13 million, followed by Mall of the Emirates with 11.2 million and Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall with 10.6 million.
On the Green Line, Sharaf DG station recorded 9.9 million riders, while Baniyas station and Stadium station saw 8.4 million and 6.8 million, respectively.
Public Bus usage
Dubai’s public buses transported 187.7 million riders in 2024, reflecting an 8% increase compared to 2023. Bus network coverage expanded from 2,095 km in 2006 to 3,974 km in 2024, supported by a modern fleet of 1,400 low-emission buses.
Shared Mobility on the rise
Shared mobility services, including smart app-based ride-hailing, hourly rentals, and bus-on-demand, experienced a 28% growth, serving 56 million riders.
"The rise in shared mobility usage highlights the increasing demand for flexible and sustainable transport options in Dubai," Al Tayer commented.
Taxis remained a key mode of transport, carrying 200.6 million riders, a slight 1% rise from 2023.
Marine transport and Dubai Tram
Marine transport services, comprising abras, water taxis, and Dubai Ferry, carried 18 million riders, marking a 3% increase.
Dubai Tram transported 9.4 million riders, up 6% from 2023.
Future developments
RTA remains committed to expanding Dubai’s transport infrastructure. The Dubai Metro Blue Line project, awarded in December, is set to cost Dh20.5 billion. Construction begins in April, with the 30-kilometre line featuring 14 stations.
"The Blue Line project aligns with Dubai’s vision for a smart and sustainable city, ensuring seamless connectivity for its residents and visitors," Al Tayer stated.
The Blue Line will connect key urban areas, serve nearly one million residents, and integrate with the Red and Green Lines. It will also link Dubai International Airport to nine locations, with travel times ranging from 10 to 25 minutes.
Dedicated Bus and Taxi lanes
RTA plans to expand dedicated bus and taxi lanes in 2025 and 2026. The addition of six new lanes spanning 13 kilometres will increase the total length of dedicated lanes to 20 kilometres. This expansion is expected to boost ridership by 10%, improve bus arrival times by 42%, and cut travel times by 41%.
Trackless Tram and autonomous buses
RTA is studying the implementation of a trackless tram system in eight locations across Dubai. This self-driving, electric-powered system follows a virtual track guided by cameras. It has a top speed of 70 km/h and can travel 100 kilometres on a single charge.
Additionally, RTA is exploring pilot operations for self-driving buses equipped with AI-powered safety technology. These autonomous buses, designed for short-distance trips, can carry 10 to 20 riders at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
Public Transport trends
Dubai Metro accounted for 37% of total ridership in 2024, while taxis contributed 27%, down from 28% in 2023. Public buses saw an increase, rising to 25% from 24.7% in 2023. Shared mobility services climbed from 6% to 7.5%, while marine transport and Dubai Tram maintained their shares at 2.5% and 1%, respectively.
"We will continue to invest in cutting-edge transport technologies and services to ensure Dubai remains a global leader in smart mobility solutions," Al Tayer concluded.