Public transport in Dubai will be emission-free by 2050 says Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.
Outlining a roadmap towards zero-emission public transport in the emirate by 2050 Sheikh Hamdan said the city will become a model for sustainability and green transition.
The plan will look to cut almost 8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions while also saving AED3bn by 2050. It will also see the RTA move towards adopting electric buses and taxis in the city.
“Establishing Dubai as a global model of sustainability and green transition requires us to work collectively. We are committed to continuing the implementation of green initiatives with positive environmental impact to reduce climate change,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
“We approved the roadmap to complete the transition to zero-emissions public transport. Dubai has become a global model of sustainability, and we look forward to welcoming the world at COP28 at Expo City Dubai.
“Our green initiatives continue for the future of our planet so as to become a global hub for creativity and innovation and an outstanding example for the world in hosting and sharing our experiences with them at COP28 at Expo City next year,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
Sheikh Hamdan approved the plan for zero-emission public transport plan as he chaired an Executive Council meeting in the presence of Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Deputy Chairman of the council.
Dubai is making steady progress in achieving its objective to reduce carbon emissions in the emirate by implementing its Clean Energy Strategy 2050.
It is also aligned with the Energy and Water Demand Management Strategy 2030, and the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030, part of an integrated approach that ensures the participation of all local sectors in achieving the goals of the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.
The landmark Net Zero pledge was made by the UAE during COP26 in the UK.
The roadmap for achieving the transition towards zero-emission public transport in Dubai by 2050 is based on a set of executive initiatives related to the infrastructure, the circular economy and green mobility, which will achieve the desired environmental impact by avoiding nearly 8 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions, the equivalent of planting 132 million trees.
It also equates to financial savings of AED3bn by 2050.
Under the initiative, which is a part of an integrated strategy to contribute to adapting to climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the deployment of clean energy vehicles will gradually increase.
The Roads and Transport Authority will add electric and hydrogen vehicles to its fleet of public transportation buses, school transport, taxis and limousines. It will also rehabilitate the infrastructure and expand the use of clean energy to encompass buildings and facilities, in addition to recycling waste to support the circular economy.
The roadmap is in line with the UAE’s vision to transform climate change challenges into opportunities to advance economic diversification and achieve sustainable economic development by developing new industries, technologies, skills and jobs that support environmental protection and preservation.
This week the RTA unveiled a transport masterplan to keep the city moving during the FIFA World Cup. Almost 12,000 taxis, more than 1,300 Metro trips, extra bus routes and even ferries will keep the emirate moving during a period of expected high demand.
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