RTA Issue Certification to Nakheel and SMRT to Operate Palm Jumeirah Monorail

Palm Jumeirah Monorail totally owned by Nakheel

RTA Issue Certification to Nakheel and SMRT to Operate Palm Jumeirah Monorail


Dubai (United Arab Emirates): The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) issued Safety Certificates to Nakheel and SMRT Engineering (Middle East) FZE for the Palm Jumeirah Transit System; the first passenger railway in the UAE.

“Safety Regulation and Planning Department has issued two Safety Certificates for the Palm Jumeirah Transit System (Monorail); the first of these certificates is for the safety of the equipment that makes up the monorail. RTA has issued this certificate to Nakheel, the owner of the railway. The second certificate is for the safety of the operation and maintenance activities of SMRT Engineering (Middle East) Ltd, who has been contracted by Nakheel to operate the railway” announced Abdul Mohsen Ibrahim Younes, CEO of Strategy and Corporate Governance Sector.

“RTA Safety Regulation and Planning Department has been working closely with Nakheel and SMRT since the early stages of the project to ensure that the safety of the railway is in line with good, internationally recognized practice and standards. RTA’s assessments are in addition to the rigorous safety assessments made by Nakheel and SMRT, which included use of an Independent Safety Assessor. RTA’s assessments involved design reviews, site inspections, witnessing of tests, emergency exercises and audits throughout the life of the project. RTA will continue to monitor the safe operation of the railway through regular audits” added Abdul Mohsen.

“To support its safety certification activities for the Monorail, RTA has been working closely with several internationally recognized railway safety experts, including UK’s Office of Rail Regulation”, continued Abdul Mohsen.

He went further to add: “RTA will soon develop new legislations setting out a new role for RTA as the Railway Safety Regulation Authority. This role will fall to RTA’s Safety Regulation and Planning Department which will conduct due diligence. The new laws will set requirements for safety certification, safety regulation and accident investigation for all railways in the Emirate of Dubai, including the Dubai Metro”.

For his part Amair Saleem, Director of the Safety Regulation and Planning Department at RTA, said: “The new laws will grant powers to the Safety Regulation Authority that will help ensure that all railways within the Emirate of Dubai are constructed and operated safely.”

The Palm Jumeirah Transit System, which opened at 08:00 on Thursday 30th April 2009, is totally owned and operated by Nakheel and its a monorail that operates over 5.4 km of track between Gateway Tower at the Dubai mainland end of the Palm Jumeirah and the Atlantis theme park. When the surrounding property developments are complete, there will be intermediate stations to serve Trump Tower and Village Centre.

RTA Offers Scratch Cards to Top-up Salik Account

RTA Offers Scratch Cards to Top-up Salik Account


Dubai (United Arab Emirates): Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) developed a new system of toll gate (Salik) cards enabling users to top-up their accounts by means of scratch cards offered at denominations of 50, 100 and 200 dirhams; which are the most popular categories. The system will be operational as of today and clients can obtain these cards from the approved sales outlets, thus adding to the diverse channels opened to make the service easily accessible to clients.

“The underlying aim of developing the new system is to introduce integrated solutions enabling Salik individual users easily access the service at any time in a way that saves much time & effort, thereby fits well with the RTA vision of providing Safe & Smooth Transport for All” said Maitha bin Adai, CEO of RTA Traffic & Roads Agency.

She elaborated: “The system is easy to use and offers cards at three categories (50, 100 and 200 dirham) and each card has a secret code to be scratched by the client for crediting the account. Top-up process has to be completed by following-up the instructions at the reverse side of the card, or by calling Salik Call Center at: 800-Salik (72545) and complying with the voice guidance, or else through logging up to Salik Portal (www.salik.ae).

“Salik cards are disposable, once used whatsoever was the amount and they cannot be partially used. Once the balance available in the card is added to the account, the whole amount of the prepaid card is transferred to the recharged account. The prepaid card can also be used to top-up the Salik account of another person, provided the account number and PIN codes are entered correctly.

“Subscribers have to be careful and attentive when topping up their accounts and verify the account number and PIN code before proceeding with the process. When recharging their Salik accounts, the system prompts users to enter the account number and PIN code as a means to verify the authenticity of the details before the amount is deposited to the account, and such numbers obviously belong to one specific customer.

“RTA will shortly announce the approved distribution points of Salik top-up cards such as petrol stations and commercial centers. Companies, centers and individuals can buy Salik Prepaid Cards in bulk from RTA and affiliated Customer Service Centers for reselling them to subscribers, provided the minimum purchase order shall not be less than 1000 cards. RTA will offer discounts when buying cards in bulks” added Maitha.

Since the toll gate system was launched in July 2007, RTA has always been seeking to boost the confidence of Salik users through offering them new and diverse service packs. Work is up and running in upgrading the style and class of these services by offering interactive online services to subscribers; enabling them to recharge their accounts through multiple options. These include credit card, e-dirham or direct debit from the bank account, in collaboration with Dubai e-Government.

RTA Assumes Management & Operation of Property Accidents Claim System

RTA Assumes Management & Operation of Property Accidents Claim System


Dubai (United Arab Emirates): Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) announced that it would soon assume management & operation of Property Accident Claims services, following the official transfer of the System from Dubai Municipality. Accordingly, RTA will manage the system of accidents inflicting losses to public properties, and assess their scope as well as financial costs, in an effort to enhance customer service, minimize service outlets, save the time & effort, and attain a higher level of customer satisfaction.

“The transfer of management & operation of Property Accident Claims system to the RTA fits well with RTA strategy of combining all traffic, road & transport systems in the emirate under one umbrella; a step which would save the time & effort of RTA individual & corporate customers. The System, which is interrelated with a number of departments of the Agency such as Maintenance, Parking and Intelligent traffic Systems, will be managed by the Financial Team,” said Maitha bin Adai, CEO of RTA Traffic & Roads Agency.

She added: “This step basically stems from the drive to upgrade the quality of services delivered to RTA customers and aims to achieve a host of objectives that include exercising better control, carrying out speedy survey of losses, and adopting simplified & time-saving procedures. This is particularly relevant as most of accidents and resulting losses are related to the RTA; which is keen on raising the bar on customer service, and offering diverse service channels out of a strategy based on speedy processing and customer centricity.

Maitha narrated the mechanism to be observed by saying: “Whenever a traffic accident resulting in damage to any sort of road properties, Dubai Police surveys & registers the accident, and produces a report through the Accidents Systems coordinated between RTA & the Police. The report covers details of losses inflicted on public properties such as roads & transport systems, and properties related to other departments in the emirate of Dubai, depending on the nature of losses. The concerned department attends to assessment and identifying the amount of losses to enable the financial team file claims to the insurance companies or involved individuals.

Bin Adai concluded: “The new procedure will combine efforts, and slash the number of service outlets, thereby minimizing disruption and improving quality; thereby contributing to RTA Mission of developing integrated solutions of road systems that are in line with the comprehensive economic development plans in the emirate and at the highest global standards.

RTA Takes Part in Arabian Travel Market 2009 Exhibition

RTA Takes Part in Arabian Travel Market 2009 Exhibition

Dubai (United Arab Emirates): Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) is taking part in Arabian Travel Market 2009 Exhibition, as part of other participating Government Departments through the Pavilion of Tourism & Commercial Marketing Dep’t.

“Through its stand, RTA exhibited to visitors all services & facilities provided to upgrade the service sector in the emirate, particularly roads, transport and safety services, besides the key projects delivered and others still under construction” said Peyman Younes Parham, Director of Marketing & Corporate Communication Dep’t at RTA Corporate Support Services Sector.

“During the Arabian Travel Market, RTA showcased its leading role in serving the tourist sector in the emirate. Visitors receivd full explanation of the features and diversity of comfortable transport means and the infrastructure of roads network in the emirate. RTA also presented a film and offer publications depicting RTA landmark achievements. Visitors inquires about various services offered by RTA responded to the attending officials in the exhibition” added Peyman.

RTA participation this year comes under the umbrella of Tourism & Commercial Marketing Dep’t, Hall No. 3 together with other government bodies such as Dubai Police, and Department of Naturalization & Residency.

The Arabian Travel Market Exhibition, which was staging its 16th edition, is organized by Reed Travel Exhibitions during the period 5-8 May 2009 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Exhibition aims at uniting key market players from six continents, and unlocking the investment & tourism potentials within the Middle East region.

The Arabian Travel Market Exhibition features intensive meetings, seminars, press conferences and social networking opportunities, attracting participation from 107 tourist companies in addition to more than 70 others businesses hailing from more than 60 countries around the globe offering more than 2000 products.

RTA 3rd Customer Council Advocates Upgrading Licensing Services

RTA 3rd Customer Council Advocates Upgrading Licensing Services


Dubai – (United Arab Emirates): Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) held its 3rd Customer Council gathering at the main meeting hall of Public Transport Agency under the chairmanship of Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, CEO of RTA Marine Agency and Chairman of RTA Customer Council.

Al Mulla said: “RTA is seeking to enhance its ongoing tradition of adopting the best practices to upgrade the level of services offered to clients. Dubai is offering the whole world multiple & diverse services, which means that we have always to seek offering top-class innovative services. Through its agencies, RTA is keen to broaden and upgrade the technical & electronic services network offered to all segments of the community. This includes Licensing Services; which are very crucial to the RTA in delivering a full package of integrated related services with the aim of enhancing the best global practices in the field of licensing.

He expressed his delight with the efforts of RTA clients & strategic partners in bringing success and lending support to the strategic projects & initiatives made to ensure the delivery of integrated licensing services; which would ultimately minimize road congestion, traffic accidents and environmental pollution, thereby contribut to realizing the vision of the RTA to provide Safe & Smooth Transport for All.

The gathering was attended from the RTA by the Director of Customer Relations Development Omer Al Naqbi, and the Director of the Office of CEO Marine Agency Nayleh Fikri. From Licensing Agency attended the Director of Drivers Licensing Dep’t Ali Al Jassim, Director of Vehicle Licensing Dep’t Mohammed Abdul Karim Nimaat, and several section managers. The gathering was also attended by a number of RTA clients representing Car Rental Offices, Driving Institutes and number plate dealers.

The gathering discussed issues of common concern such as distinguished numbers, technical testing of vehicles, drivers training & qualification, and ways & means of serving the interests of all community members in a way that enhances the status of the emirate as a pioneer business, finance & tourist hub in the region.

The meeting was interceded by a video presentation delivered by Mohammed Abdul Karim Nimaat in which he reviewed the structure and respective tasks of Licensing Agency departments and the overall executive tasks of the Agency. He reviewed the key present and future projects of Licensing Agency and means of upgrading work processes to deliver the best services at the highest international standards applicable in vehicles & drivers licensing.

The gathering discussed several issues related to licensing such as renewal of vehicle registration & follow-up mechanism, fines structure, and restructuring the fines associated with the delay in renewing vehicle registration. The Council also discussed vehicle insurance system and the need to reset it to bring it in line with the mechanism of renewing vehicle registration.

The Council also discussed the procedures of issuing distinguished numbers and the need to comply with transparency, clarity and credibility in the issuing process, and how to enact legislations & sort out solutions to eliminate the monopolistic practices by traders. Representatives of customers called for exercising some flexibility in reporting offences & fines, and the policy of suspending transactions till payment is made.

The Council discussed the stipulations applicable to applicants for special needs parking permits and the need to review these conditions with the intention of adopting a better mechanism in keeping with the international stipulations applicable in this regard. The Council discussed the laws of quad bikes introduced to curb the occurrence of accidents claiming the lives of youths, and the policy of issuing heavy vehicle driving licenses and the need to tighten it in order to enhance the overall safety.

At the end of the gathering, mementos were presented to clients as a gesture of appreciation from the RTA to its attending clients. The attendants praised the assiduous efforts of the RTA to uplift the quality of services offered to the public to the highest international standards in this regard.

RTA Trains Bus Drivers on Safe Emergency Evacuation

RTA Trains Bus Drivers on Safe Emergency Evacuation

Dubai – Roads & Transport Authority: Bus Fleet Drivers Affairs Dep’t at Public Transport Agency of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) recently launched a series of drills to train public bus fleet drivers on the safe clearance of buses in emergency cases that warrant immediate response to contain the situation and safeguard the lives of passengers.
“These drills aim at training & grooming drivers to cope with emergency situations such as fire; as buses might catch fire in any place and at any time” said Mohammed Ahmed bin Fahad, Director of Bus Fleet Drivers Affairs Dep’t at Public Transport Agency. “Drivers have therefore got to know the locations and operation of all emergency exits & windows on both sides of the bus, rear exits as well as roof hatches. They also have to know the location & method of lifting the fire extinguisher and First Aid Kit from their brackets, as well as the location and usage of any communication equipment on board the bus (two-way radio). Also they have to identify the safest way of clearing the bus from the available exits, the importance of keeping passengers in an Assembly Point away from the bus, and how to release Emergency Warning Devices and Reflectors” he said.
Bin Fahad further added: “In emergency cases, there won’t be much time to read the instructions of operating emergency exits as it will be a waste of time at a time that warrants utilizing every second quickly & effectively to save the lives of passengers; which ranks at the top of our priorities. Moreover, the surrounding conditions of the accident place will impact the attitudes of both passengers and the driver, and slow down their responses to such cases”.
It is note-worthy that RTA strictly requires all buses of Public Transport Agency are fitted with all safety & security requirements such as emergency exits & windows, warning systems, and fire extinguishers among others.

RTA Launches mParking Service to Pay Parking Fees

RTA Launches mParking Service to Pay Parking Fees

Dubai (United Arab Emirates): The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) launched mParking Service for paying parking fees in all RTA paid public parking zones in the emirate of Dubai through the mobile phone. The service is part of RTA strategy to provide integrated solutions of road systems that keep pace with the sweeping development plans in the emirate of Dubai, and in line with the highest international standards.

Engineer Maitha bin Adai, CEO of RTA Traffic & Roads Agency said: “The mParking service launched by the RTA in cooperation with Etisalat is the first of its kind in the UAE. It aims at easing the use of public parking for Dubai residents & visitors, thus saving their time & effort in paying fees of using controlled parking zones through the mobile phone (Etisalat). The system covers both GSM and Wasel lines by sending an SMS from the office, home or any other place; saving the inconvenience of searching for coins or renewing the validity of the parking ticket.

“The service will be applied through several phases starting with RTA parking zones at Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Media City, and Dubai Internet City. Afterwards it will be gradually generalized to all RTA public parking in the emirate of Dubai; with Phase 2 covering Bur Dubai, and Phase 3 covering Deira.

“The system will maintain the coins system and the currently valid cards, so the new service is an added value to the list of services provided by RTA to customers in the context of diverse & multiple options offered to parking users. Under the new procedure, after parking the vehicle at the parking, the customer sends an SMS to 7275 (PARK) quoting the plate category & number, followed by the area code displayed in the signboard, and the required parking period. The customer will then receive an SMS confirming the completion of the process; which is considered an e-ticket showing the period permitted for using the parking.

“The mParking service provides several benefits to users; as no registration is required for benefiting from the service. However, customers who sign up through the website: www.mpark.rta.ae/ will find it much easier as they can link the details of their vehicle plates with short names of their choice; which can be used in paying the parking fees.

“Among the other benefits provided by the service is the possibility of paying the fees from any location without having to walk to the machine, and there will be no need to carry coins. The number of hours needed for using the parking could be set and the user will receive an SMS confirmation in a short time (e-ticket), and another reminder SMS 10 minutes before the expiry of the prescribed parking period so that the user can decide to extend the parking time or leave the parking to avoid any offences. Should the user opt to renew, it will be a very easy process just through sending an SMS including the letter “Y”, or (ن) in Arabic, as the system is bilingual (A/E) so that all customers can use it without any language barriers. The SMS has to include the number of the required extension hours. So if an SMS reply is received in the user’s mobile phone containing the details of an e-ticket extension, this means that the parking use period has been extended for the number of hours specified in the user’s extension SMS. Payment will be adjusted through direct debit from the balance of the mobile phone or telephone bill of the phone operator.

“Registration and benefiting from the service has been made so easy for users. Owners of private vehicles registered in the emirate of Dubai do not need prior registration to the service i.e. they can benefit from the service at any time. Owners of vehicles registered in other emirates will have to complete an easy registration process through www.mpark.rta.ae/.

“Information regarding parking will be automatically updated such that parking users issued with e-tickets will not be subjected to fines by parking controllers as their PDAs are linked to the main service provider through GPRS. So when the parking controller enters the details of the vehicle, all valid & expired permits in the zone will be displayed; thereby can verify if an e-ticket is issued or not” concluded Maitha.

In the same context, Ahmed Abdul Karim Julfar, Chief Operating Officer of Etisalat said: “Cooperation with the RTA in offering mParking service demonstrates that both parties are keen to cooperate in the public interest and serve all segments of the community through providing sophisticated technologies saving much time and effort. Provision of this service through Etisalat reflects the intention of the Co. to utilize the multiple features of mobile phones for the benefit of customers, and contribute to easing their daily life through offering innovative & comfortable services to pay various fees. This initiative is in line with Etisalat Strategy aiming at broadening its mobile phone-linked payment services to cover other sectors & services to meet the needs of our corporate and individual customers”.

Photos:
- Engineer Maitha bin Adai
- Ahmed Abdul Karim Julfar
- The system displaying the service in English

Al Tayer Reviews Metro Marketing Campaign with the CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi

Al Tayer Reviews Metro Marketing Campaign with the CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi

The Campaign kicks off this week and lasts one year


Roads & Transport Authority - Mohammed Al Munji:

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board & Executive Director of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) received Mr. Kevin Roberts, Worldwide CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi; a leading global company in the field of marketing that was recently awarded the contract of marketing Dubai Metro project under the brand “My Metro”.

Al Tayer said that RTA was pinning high hopes on launching a comprehensive marketing campaign for Dubai Metro Project; the longest driverless metro line constructed as one project worldwide. “This campaign will be unique in nature but in line with the international specifications of Dubai Metro; which is modeled after the best global practices and built on sophisticated rail technology to meet the requirements of various community segments. Metro stations feature a unique & highly innovative internal & external designs, and are suitably linked with other transport modes and surrounding areas” said Al Tayer.

He added: “RTA is proud of tasking this campaign to one of the biggest advertising agencies in the globe, with 150 offices in 86 countries, employing over 6,000 people, and ranking among the biggest 100 advertising company worldwide.

“RTA was keen to set this marketing campaign of Dubai Metro in motion well ahead of the project operation. It will start as early as this week and lasts for one year comprising three phases. Phase I focuses on project introduction in terms of launch timing, design and message selection i.e. (My Metro). Phase II is the basic stage comprising all information related to the metro operation, fare, public services, station services, multi-modal integration, and security & safety means. Phase III is the preparatory phase that sets the stage for the launch day on 09/09/2009, and covers all media, promotional and marketing outlets of this pioneer project. Examples of these include television stations, radio channels, newspapers, magazines, ad spaces on roads, bridges and tunnels. The message will be delivered in several languages to address all community segments.

For his part, Kevin Roberts expressed his delight with RTA selection of Saatchi & Saatchi to undertake this promotional marketing campaign of Dubai Metro. “The Co. will employ all its global expertise and experiments to deliver an excellent marketing product coherent with Dubai Metro Project; a pioneer global project in rail transport industry” he noted.

“My Metro” campaign aims to introduce the public to the services & facilities rendered by Dubai Metro Project, which offers Dubai residents top-notch & highly sophisticated transit system. The Project is viewed as a new ring in the ongoing series of successes made by the RTA that opens up huge employment and investment opportunities.

The elements of this campaign will be oriented to target all age groups and span wide sectors of the community. Various awareness messages will be directed to different community segments emphasizing on making Dubai Metro a flagship project, to stand on the same footing with other Dubai landmark projects such as Burj Al Arab, Burj Dubai, The Palm, The World among others. The theme (My Metro) will be stressed such that all passengers will be proud of using this metro in their daily travels.

Photo:
Al Tayer receiving Kevin Roberts

A New Fare set for the Water Bus Starting May 3rd

A New Fare set for the Water Bus Starting May 3rd

Dubai – (United Arab Emirates): In a meeting chaired by H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board & Executive director of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), RTA Boards of Directors endorsed the new fare of the Water Bus set as 4 dirham per one round trip (back and forth) within the same day. The Board also approved the new Line (B4) providing a shuttle service between Creek Park, Seef and Bur Dubai stations.

The CEO of RTA Marine Agency Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla announced that the new fare of the Water Bus had become 4 dirham per passenger per one round trip (to and fro) during the service hours of the same day of buying the ticket i.e. from 06.00 am to 11.00 pm.

“A new Line of the Water bus has been added (B4); starting from the Creek Park Station, passing through Seef Station and terminating at Bur Dubai Station. The service is run at 1-hour interval (headway) between services, with a 2-minute stop over at stations and the whole trip takes about 25 minutes” he said.

Al Mulla added: “Ticketing process has also been upgraded such that the ticket has become valid for a two-way trip instead of a single-way trip. Two types of tickets are now applicable; the e-ticket obtainable from the electronic ticketing machine where the lower end of the ticket is detached in the outgoing trip and the remaining part will be shredded at the return trip. The second type is a manual ticket comprising two parts, with the first one cut in the outgoing trip and the second one at the return trip. The ticket is marked with Going & Return expressions.

“Marine Agency is keen to develop marine mass transit modes to deliver the best services in keeping with the highest international standards applicable in this regard. This is particularly relevant as the Water Bus is taking shape as one of the marine mass transit modes enjoyed by visitors & tourists in commuting between the two shores of Dubai Creek as it has sophisticated features and fitted with comfortable seats & display monitors besides seatings for special needs persons.

“The Water Bus operates between five lines; B1 from Sabkha Station to Bur Dubai Station (as of 16 August 2007), B3 from Sabkha Station to Bani Yas Station and Seef Station (as of 5 September 2007), B2 from Bani Yas Station to Dubai Old Souk Station (as of 4 October 2007), B5 (Tourist Line) from Shindagha Station to Seef Station (back and forth) (as of 14 December 2007), and the new Line B4 from Creek Part Station to Seef Station and Bur Dubai Station. The service covers 8 stations namely: Sabkha Station, Seef Station, Bani Yas Station, Dubai Old Souk Station, Bur Dubai Station, Shindagha Station, Deira Old Souk Station, and Creek Park Station.

“The Water Bus was designed to fulfill RTA vision of providing Safe & Smooth Transport for All through offering extensive security & safety features such as the life jacket underneath each seat, life belts, fixed & comfortable seats, and seating for special needs. The body features another security & safety feature which is the dual base allowing water to pass underneath the Water Bus breaking the effect of waves; boosting the Water Bus stability in transit.

RTA Bags four Excellent Performance Awards as well five Employees Honored

RTA Bags four Excellent Performance Awards as well five Employees Honored


Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), expressed deep gratitude to HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for lending support and patronage of the pioneer drive of excellence in the public sector. Such a drive has well been illustrated, thanks to the establishment of Dubai Government Excellence Program (DGEP); which was established in 1997 as an integrated government excellence program across the globe and a driving force to bring about a quality shift in the performance of government departments & units, based on well established universal standards.

HH stresses that every government employee shoulders a huge responsibility to work wholeheartedly to sustain the drive of successes & unprecedented achievements; a legacy passed on from ancestors and we expect our current generations to carry on.

Al Tayer also expressed deep appreciation to HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, for the close follow-up of the performance of various government authorities & departments in the emirate.

“Thanks to the wise directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the incessant follow-up of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince, and the dedicated efforts & team spirit of its employees, RTA was able to uplift the performance level, keep abreast of successive events in various fields, and introduce new administrative concepts. RTA could raise the bar of excellence standards through developing its human resources, fostering the spirit of creativity & innovation across the board, providing a good working environment, and advocating the team spirit; which was culminated in extensive achievements, delivery of projects that left impressive results across the emirate, and constructive participation in all categories of DGEP.

“Accordingly, RTA landed the Distinguished Management Initiative Award through Metro Stations Naming Rights Project; which marks a transition of the traditional administrative methods, and the first investment model that generates feasible revenues contributing to the development of public transport infrastructure worldwide. Moreover, it enhances the partnership with the private sector, and fosters the culture of knowledge, interaction, constructive competition, and innovative concepts.

“RTA stance to embrace high technology and innovations as a means of bolstering the performance of traffic mobility in the emirate, as reflected in its vision of providing Safe & Smooth Transport for All, enabled RTA to bag the prestigious Distinguished Technological Project Award through the Toll Gate System (Salik); which is part of integrated solutions developed by the RTA to ease traffic congestion.

“Thanks to the dedicated and diligent efforts of its employees, RTA scooped other Awards under various excellence categories of DGEP Awards; namely: Kawthar Kazim, Director of Human Resources & Development Dep’t was honoured with Distinguished Female Employee Award in recognition of her efforts in bringing about a quality shift in the method & management of HR at the RTA; a transition marking a breakaway from the traditional method to a target-geared management. Noura Al Abdouli, also from Human Resources & Development Dep’t, clinched Distinguished New Employee Award in recognition of her multiple initiatives & excellent achievements made.

Al Tayer concluded: “Besides employee excellence awards, the Director of Rail Planning & Development Dep’t Abdul Rida Abu Al Hassan, were honoured with Distinguished Government Employee Award, and another staff from Rail Agency, Al Tayeb Al Maqdami, was honoured with Creative Employee Award. Three more employees were also honoured under Unsung Hero Award; namely: Hayder Adel Khudair, Qamar Zaman Jan Dar, and Musa Ghulam Raheemi.”

Al Tayer hailed the efforts of the winning employees and praised their assiduous efforts to excel in their jobs; which was culminated in scooping the prestigious awards. Winning these awards will be a great impetus for the RTA to proceed ahead with the administrative & technical advancement and pursue the tradition of excellence.

Photos:
- HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid honours RTA for Salik system
- HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid honours RTA for Metro Stations Naming Rights

Mohammed Endorses Road Improvements of Al Khail (Phase 4), Al Wasl and Trade Center, Costing AED1.4b

Mohammed Endorses Road Improvements of Al Khail (Phase 4), Al Wasl and Trade Center, Costing AED1.4b


Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, endorsed the designs of several road & bridge network projects comprising Phase 4 of Al Khail Road Improvement Project (Intersection of Al Khail & Umm Suqeim Roads), Al Wasl Road Improvement Project, and Trade Center Roads Improvement Project, costing 1.4 billion dirham in total.

While reviewing the detailed sketches & charts of the projects, HH directed to have these projects delivered in accordance with the approved schedules, and also directed to give due attention to landscaping and ensure it would be compatible with the local habitat so as to maintain the urbanized appearance of the emirate of Dubai.

The Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) H.E. Mattar Al Tayer elaborated: “Al Wasl Road Improvement Project covers a sector extending 11 km of Al Wasl Road, starting from the intersection with Al Safa Road and terminating at the intersection with Al Manara Road. The Project involves converting four existing signalized junctures into free 2-lane underpasses in each direction extending along Al Wasl Road. This applies to the intersection of Al Wasl Road with Al Safa, Al Hadiqa, Umm Al Sheef and Al Manara Roads, in addition to some improvements on the intersecting roads. This Project contributes to RTA efforts to enhance the efficiency of the Road and improve traffic flow, ultimately slashing the transit time along the road. construction works in the project, which needs 14 months to complete, will start in the last quarter of this year.

Al Khail Road
Al Tayer elaborated on Phase 4 of Al Khail Road Project by saying: “Works under this Phase include replacing the existing R/A at the intersection with Umm Suqeim Road by a free multi-level road to ensure smooth traffic flow at all directions. It also covers widening of Al Khail Road from 4 to 6 lanes. The new intersection will provide easy access and better traffic flow in the neighbourhood such as Barsha South, Al Qouz Ind. area and others.

“The Project involves relocating and protecting the installations & utility lines impacted by the free interchange, together with the associated landscaping works. The time span for delivering the project has been cut to 13 months such that completing this Phase will be synchronized with the opening of the first three phases.

“Al Khail Road Improvement Project is one of the mega projects currently undertaken by the RTA and its importance stems from its status as an extension of the Business Bay Crossing through which RTA is seeking to open up road corridor supporting to Sh. Zayed Rd and Emirates Rd, which accommodate a large portion of high traffic. RTA is currently constructing Parallel Roads and Dubai Bypass Projects; which serve the new urban communities such as Jebel Ali Village, Al Furjan and Dubai Land.

“In view of the massive volume of Al Khail Road Project, RTA split it into six phases and works are going on in three phases, with an estimated cost of 1.8 billion dirham. Phase 1, which costs about 575 million dirham, includes construction of a multi-level interchange at the juncture of Al Khail Rd with Emirates Rd in addition to six bridges to ensure smooth traffic flow in all directions. The Project, which is a full clover leaf interchange, also has two directional ramps to ensure a smooth flow in the left turn.

Phase 2 of the Project, which was awarded to Gunal Construction Co. at a cost of 851.962 million dirham, comprises two multi-level flyovers instead of the existing two R/As at the intersection of Al Khail Road with Road 319 and Road 323 at Al Qouz Residential & Industrial Areas. These two multi-level full clover leaf interchanges ensure smooth traffic flow in all directions.

Phase 3 of Al Khail Road Improvement Project, which was awarded to Ascon Road Construction at a cost of 423.222 million dirham, comprises construction of a road extending after the intersection of Umm Suqeim Rd with Emirates Rd and covers widening of the existing road.

Trade Center Improvements
Al Tayer further stated: “Road Improvements at Trade Center Project comprise construction of exits from Zaabeel 2 Rd in the direction of Sh. Zayed Rd towards Abu Dhabi; which is poised to ease traffic considerably. It also comprises introduction of a traffic signal instead of the existing R/A in order to accommodate most of the traffic in the area. It provides free right turns and U-turns in most of the approaches of the junctions. This design can minimize the number of light signals from a 6-phase signal to a 3-phase signal. Traffic movements will be diverted from Al Diyafa Road towards Immigration Road and the movement will be diverted from Immigration Road towards Sh. Zayed Rd leading to Al Garhoud and Al Maktoum Bridges.

Al Tayer stated that these solutions were tested with several scenarios of traffic volumes to verify its viability in the future. The purpose of this variation was to find out how long the interim option can serve before if fails and gets replaced with the ultimate free flow interchange. The option was tested with volumes projected from the current traffic counts and with the volumes extracted from the latest model that includes all development projects in the area.

RTA is currently undertaking Trade Center Bridges Project, which comprises construction of flyovers linking with the terminal point of the Western Parallel Road before Zaabeel 2 Rd and extending as an elevated road parallel to the external boundary of Zabeel Park till linking with Sh. Rashid Rd near Al Qattaiyat Juncture. Therefore it provides a direct link between Al Garhoud Bridge and the Western Parallel Road. The overall cost of the Project is 690 million dirham.

Photos:
- Al Wasl Road Improvement Project Chart
- The Interchange of Al Khail Rd and Al Wasl Rd Chart
- The Interchange of Al Khail Rd and Umm Suqeim Rd Chart
- Improvements of Roads at Trade Center Chart

RTA Organizes a Campaign to Clean Jumeirah Beach

RTA Organizes a Campaign to Clean Jumeirah Beach

Dubai (United Arab Emirates): Rail Agency at Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has organized a community campaign to clean Jumeirah Beach in coordination with Dubai Municipality under the theme “Clean the World”.

The Campaign, which was run for 4 consecutive hours from 03.00 pm to 07.00 pm, aimed at ensuring the cleanliness of Jumeirah Beach, according to Abdul Rida Abu Al Hassan, Director of Rail Planning & Development Dep’t at RTA Rail Agency. He added: “The Dep’t had already launched several & diverse events & community campaigns in coordination with Dubai Municipality, all of which aim at providing a clean and pollution-free environment, and this campaign to clean Jumeirah Beach is part of this drive.

“Most employees of the Dep’t took part in this campaign in view of its social and national significance. It helps protect the public facilities, be it tourist, heritage or service installations. We have to embrace such an a t trend voluntarily and out of our own accord without angling for a return. By so doing, our beaches would look pretty nice and free from pollutants disfiguring the beautiful view of UAE beaches.

“RTA is making every effort to have in place sweeping & multifaceted drive with the aim of curbing environmental pollution. It has therefore approved the concept of green buildings in all designs of metro trains and installations in recognition of the importance of green buildings, and as a contribution from the RTA towards an environment free from all pollutants across the UAE.

“RTA work team conducts daily review & follow-up of plans and precautions taken to preserve the environment, and how to apply effective management to protect the health & safety of the public in the vicinity of RTA construction sites as well as prospective metro users. RTA has recently finalized the assessment of the environmental impact of the Red and Green Lines of Dubai Metro Project as prepared by the Contractor and endorsed by Dubai Municipality. Such a comprehensive study covers air quality, soil integrity standards, suppression of noise, curbing of dust, and managing of rubbish before and during the implementation of the project. It even extends beyond project completion and the start of the metro service.

“RTA has taken all the required precautions during the construction process and Quality, Safety, Environment and Health Section will keep monitoring these activities and their environmental impacts in the short and long term” he concluded.

RTA Opens a New Customer Service branch at Mezher 1 area

RTA Opens a New Customer Service branch at Mezher 1 area


Dubai (United Arab Emirates): Residents in the neighbourhood of Mezher 1 area in Dubai will no longer need to go far off their homes to renew their driving licenses or vehicle registration. They can now go a walking distance to the newly opened Customer Service Center at Roads & Transport Authority (RTA); which started to attract customers at the newly opened Aswaq Center in the area.

The new Center adds to the extensive list of RTA Customer Service Centers dotting all parts of the emirate of Dubai. This reflects the keen attention of Customer Service Centers Dep’t at RTA Corporate Support Services Sector to deliver its excellent services to the public at their place of work and residence. Delivering such services to them at shopping centers, which attract huge numbers of people, makes it easy for the public to process transactions such renewing driving licenses and others.

Laila Ali Bin Hareb, Director of Customer Service Centers Dep’t revealed that RTA was keen to locate Customer Service Centers at key locations in commercial centers so that they would become accessible to the public. “The new Customer Service Center is located at the front of the second level of the shopping center; as the Dep’t carefully selects such locations in prime positions such that they are visible and easily accessible to the public, without having to go through the inconvenience of asking for the location” she said.

Laila added: “The Center provides smooth services to people in the vicinity; particularly noting that the working hours extend from 08.00 am to 03.00 pm. working hours could be reviewed or extended as dictated by the business conduct in future.
“In the initial stage we started delivering drivers licensing services and vehicles licensing services, but we are targeting to provide the largest possible range of services such as: selling of seasonal cards, and selling of bus cards. The Center can easily process the transactions as it comprises 6 service counters; one of them is dedicated to Dubai Police General HQ to further boost the strategic relationship between the RTA and Dubai Police.

“The plan set for the new Center envisages applying the principle of all-inclusive employee; likewise the Main Center at Umm Ramool. This will ease the delivery of services to the public as the system proved efficient, time-saving, and smooth, besides that it contributes to the enhancement of employee skills and competencies.

Al Tayer Inaugurates the Trial Run of Water Bus Hi Tech Propellers

Al Tayer Inaugurates the Trial Run of Water Bus Hi Tech Propellers

Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:

H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Roads & Transport Agency inaugurated the trial run of the hi tech propellers of the Water Bus, in coordination with the German Voith Turbo Marine Co.

The propulsion system, known as Vector-Prop, is a highly technological system based on fiber carbon-manufactured propulsion fans, with a high capacity to absorb vibration and shocks, and linked to a smart control system ensuring high propulsion and maneuverability while conserving energy consumption.

Accompanied by the CEO of Marine Agency Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, and several departmental directors at the Agency as well as representatives of the German Co., Al Tayer boarded the Water Bus in a tour across Dubai Creek, where he attended to a briefing from the concerned individuals about the features of the new technology; which is being applied for the first time worldwide. The new technology is set to enhance the operational efficiency of the Water Bus by 75%, reduce fuel consumption by 45%, suppress noise level by 70% and reduce carbon emission by 35%. Moreover, it contributes to an enhanced mooring and docking process, better control in the event of sudden stopping, lower operational costs, and better environmental conservation levels.

RTA is teaming up with the German Co. to embark on experimental operation of a Water Bus to match its operation results to the ordinary Water Bus.

Al Tayer then boarded a boat of Marine Security & Safety Services, which provides services stretching along Dubai beaches. This project is one of the key projects undertaken to upgrade marine safety services and is viewed as a crucial project across the globe as it provides marine security and safety service as part of the efforts to fulfill the vision of the RTA of providing Safe and Smooth Transport for All.

This excellent and unique service across local, regional and global level seeks to realize the comprehensive concept of marine safety. Marine safety services feature training, academic and executive programs; thereby elevating the Agency to a leading position worldwide by offering maritime support services. It enables the delivery of diverse and extensive maritime safety services such as tugging & towing, refueling, emergency repairs, buttery inspection and all matters related to maritime safety. Marine Agency will be profiled as a key driving body of a project that serves all seamen and stages awareness & qualification programs as well.

Photos:
- Mattar Al Tayer inaugurating the trial run of the new technology
- Carbon fiber-made propulsion fans

Mohammed Bin Rashid Reviews New Electronic Initiatives Introduced by RTA to Upgrade Mass Transport

Mohammed Bin Rashid Reviews New Electronic Initiatives Introduced by RTA to Upgrade Mass Transport

Directives issued to apply modern technologies to road, traffic & transport systems
Al Tayer: RTA introduces a package of integrated systems to bolster the use of public buses
Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed several electronic projects, systems and programs introduced by Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) to uplift the service of public buses with the aim of providing public transport users with a smooth transit to any destination in Dubai such that public buses will be the favourite means of mobility and first choice commuters.
Projects reviewed included Journey Planner initiative known as “Wojhati”, Automated Bus Management project, Automatic Fare Collection card (AFC), Instant Passenger Information System, Sharekni, and Awselni. HH also reviewed Drivers Training and Testing Simulator introduced to enhance the qualification of drivers, as well as Payment of Parking Fees through Mobile Phone scheme, which will be introduced next May. HH also checked the results of applying the Flashing Green Light Signal system; which had been generalized to all key intersections in the emirate and contributed to a drastic cut in the number of fatalities resulting from red signal jumping accidents by 75% in 2008.
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was impressed with the new systems & programs, and directed to comply with the timetables set for introducing these technologies. HH also directed to proceed with the application of modern technologies to all fields of roads, traffic and transport systems in order to ease mobility, upgrade safety, and preserve the lives of road users.

Journey Planner
H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of RTA said: “RTA is keen to deliver top-class services to users of mass transit modes and encourage the transition of individuals from using private vehicles in their daily moves to mass transit modes. For this end RTA is embracing an integrated package of comprehensive systems and programs to facilitate and encourage the use of public buses. Among these projects is the Journey Planner “Wojhati” system, which provides all information required by mass transit modes users such as trip fare, easiest method of reaching destination, the presumed walking distance before accessing the first point of using public transport, and the presumed walking distance after arriving at the nearest point to the required destination of the user. The system explains the number of bus interchanges available in certain locations, bus schedules, bus route maps & destinations, and all information related to bus stops along the journey route. The program has been designed to cover the whole emirate of Dubai, and users can inquire after mass transit modes, means of using & accessing the service, and destinations provided under the system.

Automated Bus Management
Al Tayer elaborated on the AFC project and said: “The system provides the possibility to use smart cards instead of paper tickets, saves the operational costs, creates multiple fare products & segments to suit all demands, and makes it easy to offer it at various sales points prior to boarding the bus.
“The Automated Bus Management project aims to deliver sophisticated services at the highest quality standards at all public transport services in the emirate of Dubai. It provides instant tracking of public buses 24 hours a day, and a link-up with buses to ensure the timely arrival to the intended destinations. The system makes it easy to manage buses through a central control unit, where the attending employee can introduce the changes constantly required to run the service on the scheduled time.
“Among the vital programs to be launched shortly is Instant Passenger Information System; enabling passengers to know the actual journey schedules at the respective bus stations, bus stops and metro stations. This enables passengers to know the exact bus transit time, as well as the status of the next, belated or rescheduled buses; making it easy to know the exact bus arrival time. This will in turn ease the mobility and provide every comfort to passengers. The Project comprises three phases and encompasses installation of about 1200 display monitors throughout all Dubai Metro Stations, and bus stops of metro station feeder service, as well as other bus stops across the emirate.
“Employee bus transport service (Awselni); which was launched in June 2008, had attracted 1284 participants served by 16 buses, and the scheme is enjoying a 14% monthly growth rate. The carpooling scheme (Sharekni), which enables individuals to share a single vehicle on their way to their workplaces and back home, has attracted more than 10,000 participants since launched in July last year, and the number of permits issued to for this purpose topped 217 permits.

Driving Simulators
H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of RTA, pointed out that RTA introduced on a trial basis a driving simulator; the first of its kind in the region, to evaluate the effectiveness of the system of training & assessing the driving abilities of trainees.
“The technology used in the system is quite unique and unprecedented worldwide as it the sole system that uses physical vehicles. The vehicle is driven using a steering wheel on a controlled system, with mobile monitors on both sides of the vehicle reflect the driving speed. This technology is different from other driving simulator technologies as it gives the driver a real taste of driving experiment and enables the driver to uplift the standard of training level and assess the performance without risking the life of the driver and others.
“This technology is quite suitable for training & assessing drivers in accordance with sophisticated standards such as risk management. It can also be assessed and controlled in an integrated environment through using electronic gadgets; which can give the driver guiding instructions, and produce a report on the driver’s road conduct and driving attitudes. Moreover, the system can produce CDs with aerial photos for the vehicle on the road network; which will be useful in giving further instructions to the driver.

Payment of Parking Fees through the Mobile Phone
H.E. Mattar Al Tayer announced that as of 3 May 2009, RTA would activate the system of paying parking fees through the mobile phone. “In the initial stage 220 machines will be installed covering Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City. Next August 1547 machines will be installed and the service will cover all parts of Bur Dubai, while 1546 machines will be installed to cover Deira next October.
“The system is so simple that the user has just to check the parking zone code registered in the payment machine. Then send an SMS to the number 7275 (corresponding to the word PARK) including vehicle number plate, parking zone code, and the required parking period. The system will then send a confirmation SMS to the user and automatically transmit the number plate of the vehicle to the parking superintendent stating that the required fees chargeable to this vehicle have been paid. The electronic offence systems will not issue offence tickets to a vehicle whose parking fees have been paid through the mobile phone. A reminder SMS will be sent to the user 10 minutes before the expiry of the paid period inquiring whether extension of the parking period is required or not” said Al Tayer.
Flashing Green Signals
H.E. Mattar Al Tayer concluded that the flashing green signal system, which had been generalized to all intersections in the emirate, contributed to reducing the red signal jumping accidents by 60%. He noted that relevant offences dropped from 4000 in August 2007 to 1200 in February 2009. Accordingly, the number of fatalities resulting from jumping the red signal dropped by 75% from 9 cases in 2007 to 2 cases in 2008.

The British Secretary of State for Business Hails the Accelerated Constructing Dubai Metro, RTA Drive towards Mass Transport

The British Secretary of State for Business Hails the Accelerated Constructing Dubai Metro, RTA Drive towards Mass Transport

Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:

H.E. Peter Mandelson, the British Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, praised the use of the latest technologies in Dubai Metro Project, and lauded the deluxe finishing of the metro coaches & stations. He also praised the efforts of Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) in expediting the construction of this vital project in a record time. He stated that RTA was bound to complete and deliver Dubai Metro ahead of schedule judging by the fast pace of construction works in the project.

The above statement was made by the British Minister, in a meeting he and the accompanying visiting delegation held with H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA. The meeting explored ways and means of boosting relations and the exchange of expertise between the RTA and the British organizations engaged in roads & transport sector.

Al Tayer briefed the visiting British Minister on the details of Dubai Metro Project comprising the Red and Green Lines. He explained that the Red Line extended 52 km (5 km of which are underground) and consisted of 29 stations: 4 underground (Burjuman, Union Square, Riqqa and Port Saeed) and 25 elevated stations; including 2 stations at Dubai International Airport. He added that the Green Line extended about 22 km (10 km of which are underground) and consisted of 18 stations; 6 of which are underground stations.

The British Minister also reviewed the details of the deluxe and luxurious designs & finishing of Dubai Metro stations. Commenting on the stations Al Tayer said: “Dubai Metro has 48 stations one of them is the Union Square, the world’s biggest metro station spanning an area of 25,000 square meters. The Station, which is one of key intersection stations of the Red and Green Lines, consists of two levels, extends 230 meters in length and 50 meters in width, and is situated at a depth of 18 meters. The Station, which comprises commercial outlets & service locations for metro users, has two entry points equipped with lifts & escalators. Four tunnels branch out of the Station bound to Burjuman & Riqqa Stations on the Red Line, and Bani Yas & Salah Uddin Stations on the Green Line. Burjuman Station, which is the other intersection station of the Red and Green Lines, has four entry points equipped with escalators & lifts”.

H. E. Mattar Al Tayer then accompanied H.E. Peter Mandelson, the British Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform in a tour of the Trade Center Station on the Red Line, where completion rate touched 80%. The Station has a capacity to handle 11,000 passengers per hour per direction. It extends 130 x 30 meters and has two entrances equipped with escalators and lifts.

Dubai Metro Stations are fitted with platform screen doors synchronized with the train door opening and closing mechanism in order to provide the highest levels of passenger comfort, safety and security as well as preserving the efficiency of the air-conditioning system operating in the interior of both stations and train carriages from the external climatic impacts. Most stations are linked with air-conditioned footbridges providing roomy corridors for public crossing over Sheikh Zayed Road. These crossings, which are fitted with travellators and boast high quality finishing, are bound to revolutionize the culture of linking and interacting between pedestrians and the city. Ultimately they are set to boost the drive towards minimizing the reliance on using private vehicles.

At the end of the meeting, Al Tayer invited the British Minister to attend the launch of the first stage of Dubai Metro passenger service slated for 09/09/2009.

RTA Teams Up with MBRCLD to Launch “Qiyadi” Scheme

RTA Teams Up with MBRCLD to Launch “Qiyadi” Scheme

The Scheme aims to polish the skills of national leaders and groom them for higher positions

AL TAYER: Emiratization is 100% at CEOs level, 90% among Directors and 79% among Managers

AL SHARED: The Scheme is crucial to upgrading leadership abilities in line with global standards

Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:

Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) signed an Agreement with Mohammad Bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development (MBRCLD) whereby ‘Qiyadi’ Scheme is launched with the aim of bringing about a systematic knowledge transition in the strategic thinking of Emirati leading personnel at the RTA.

The Agreement was signed on behalf of the RTA by H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA, and for the MBRCLD by H.E. Adel Al Shared, Executive Director of MBRCLD, in the presence of several CEOs and Departmental Directors from both parties.

“Qiyadi Scheme is a true manifestation of RTA Strategic Plan which sets among its strategic goals to be the first career choice of qualified HR. This can only be achieved through raising the competitive edge in attracting highly qualified professionals, building a comprehensive employee motivation & retention system, in addition to caring for upgrading and promoting the scientific and practical skills of employees” said Mattar Al Tayer.

“RTA is seeking to provide an environment conducive to job promotion and opening up windows for grooming young Emiratis to take up key leading positions to contribute to the fulfillment of the ambitious vision and strategic objectives of the RTA vis-à-vis provision Safe & Smooth Transport for All. Qiyadi Scheme is run in association with Mohammad Bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development which is making pioneer global efforts towards grooming young leaders to shoulder responsibilities in business administration through adopting a sophisticated scientific review and attending to systematic upgrading of leadership competencies that would help build and develop the basis of successful leadership principles across the RTA.

“The Scheme aims to upgrade the potentials and skills of RTA leaders and empower them to shoulder roles & responsibilities at higher levels in the job hierarchy; hence the Scheme targets directors and managers nominated to hold senior leadership positions. Emiratization drive has so far reached 100% at CEO level, 90% among Directors and 79% among Managers. Total number of RTA female employees reached 616 employees and Emirati ladies assume almost 10% of departmental director positions and 18% of section manager positions” he added.

Commenting on the categories covered by Qiyadi, Al Tayer said: “The Scheme covers Emiratis in the capacity of Department Directors and Section Managers; where 20 Directors and 20 Managers will be selected from the incumbent Emiratis. RTA has already taken several initial steps that included working out the guidelines of basic skills required by the RTA, followed by assessment of all Directors & Managers whose number is 137; 41 Directors and 96 Managers”.

Al Tayer elaborated on the criteria of selecting participants in Qiyadi Scheme: “RTA adopted a mechanism for selecting the leaders nominated for the Scheme based on a number of standards that include: the basic six skills required for the successful leader, academic qualifications, work-related experience, individual performance level, attitude towards change and recommendation of the immediate manager/director. Participants in the Scheme will be subjected to an intensive course of events over 24 months starting from June 2009. The Program encompasses several events such as case studies, assuming responsibilities, working with instructors, seminars, and continuous training & learning.

For his part H.E. Adel Al Shared, Executive Director of MBRCLD, said: “Qiyadi ushers a new era of strategic partnership between the Center and the RTA. It is a vital step towards qualifying potential leaders in accordance with the highest global standards through offering quality training customized to meet the requirements of the RTA and the affiliated leaders towards developing the principles and strategies of successful leadership. The Program will empower affiliated members to shoulder higher leadership roles & responsibilities as it is customized to groom managers & directors to take up key leading positions, and manage them in an effective and world-class level”.

In conclusion Al Shared hoped that this Program would bring about an informational and methodological shift in the strategic abilities and skills of leaders across the RTA; a matter which would prop-up the strategic drive and objectives of the RTA.

Photos:
The Press Conference held to announce Qiyadi Program

RTA inaugurates Ladies-Only Buses

RTA inaugurates Ladies-Only Buses


Dubai (United Arab Emirates): The Public Transport Agency at Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) unveiled yet another initiative in the context of RTA strategic initiatives designed to broaden and upgrade mass transit network in Dubai in keeping with the urban expansion witnessed by the emirate. As of April 10th, the Agency will inaugurate a new bus line comprising 7 ladies-only buses, known as L55.

“This step is intended to meet the increasing demand among ladies for public bus services. Public Transport Agency therefore decided to inaugurate this Line following site surveys and studies to identify the areas with the highest demand for exclusive ladies buses” said Mohammed Abu Baker Al Hashimi, Director of Planning & Business Development at RTA Public Transport Agency.

“Buses deployed on (L55) will set-off from Muhaisnah 4 (near Lulu Village) to Satwa via Muraqqabat Road, Deira City Center, Karama, and World Trade Interchange. The service will run at two intervals from 06.30 am to 09.00 am, and from 04.00 pm to 08.00 pm, as these timings witness the highest demand for such service among ladies.

“Bus service will be operated at 30 minutes headway (intervals) and Public Transport Agency will increase the number of buses deployed on this Line to minimize the headway if there is a higher bus occupancy rate among ladies in future.

“Public Transport Agency is keen on providing top-class services to bus commuters, including ladies. We hope that this step will play an active role in providing added privacy to ladies mobility on board RTA buses, thereby encouraging more others to take-up the service” added Al Hashimi.

It is note-worthy that Public Transport Agency is currently engaged in expanding the coverage of mass transit network in the emirate of Dubai through beefing up the bus fleet with standard, articulated and double-deck buses. These buses, which are procured from world-class bus manufacturers and fitted with high technological features, are robust, comfortable, safe, and tailored for the use of special needs persons. Moreover, they use the most eco-friendly fuel worldwide.