Dubai’s RTA releases strategy to transition to zero-emission operations by 2050

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that it has launched its ‘Zero-Emissions Public Transportation in Dubai 2050’ strategy, making it the first Middle Eastern agency to develop a long-term plan for achieving net zero emission public transport by 2050. The strategy aims to reduce carbon emissions in three key areas – public transportation, buildings and facilities and waste management.

RTA’s initiative aligns with the United Arab Emirate’s (UAE) preparations for COP28 and the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. The strategy aims to decarbonise taxis, limousines and public buses, design energy-efficient buildings, source energy from renewable sources and eliminate municipal waste.

The comprehensive strategy comprises of 10 initiatives across various RTA sectors and agencies, including collaborations with the private sector. It will be implemented over a five-year period, with regular reviews and adjustments to align with changing circumstances.

The strategy is in line with global, national and local sustainability goals such as the Paris Climate Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It is also consistent with national strategies like the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative, The UAE’s Green Agenda – 2030, National Climate Change Plan of the UAE 2050 and the UAE Energy Strategy 2050.

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By 2050, all public transport buses, taxis and limousines in Dubai will be electric or hydrogen powered. The strategy aims to convert 10% of buses and taxis by 2030, increasing to 100% by 2040. In addition, 100% of Dubai Taxi Corporation’s (DTC) school buses will be electric or hydrogen powered by 2050.

To enhance energy efficiency, RTA will retrofit its buildings and facilities with solar panels. By 2045, 100% of the buildings will be retrofitted, and all new buildings will be designed to be near zero energy by 2025. Streetlights will also be retrofitted for 100% energy efficiency.

In terms of waste management, the strategy targets 100% re-use and recycling of municipal waste by 2030, eliminating waste to landfills. The plan also aims to increase the use of recycled water in RTA’s buildings and facilities to 40% by 2050.