Dubai: Free Wi-Fi now available on all 259 intercity buses, all you need to know | World News
TL;DR
- All intercity buses operated by Dubai’s RTA now offer free Wi-Fi.
- The service covers routes between Dubai and Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Fujairah.
- Passengers can connect using phones, laptops, or tablets during their trip.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with the telecommunications company e&, has added free Wi-Fi to every intercity bus in its network. This covers 259 buses that run between Dubai and other emirates, including Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Fujairah.The new service lets passengers stay connected during their journeys using any Wi-Fi-enabled device. Whether for work, personal tasks, or general browsing, the internet is now accessible without extra charges or logins.The move comes through a partnership with telecom provider e& (formerly Etisalat) and is part of a broader push to improve digital access across public services. It supports the UAE’s National Digital Government Strategy, which focuses on making services more connected and user-friendly.The RTA says the service will be regularly reviewed and improved to ensure stable and consistent performance across the full intercity network.
What Passengers Can Expect
Intercity bus users will be able to connect to the internet for free using their smartphones, tablets, and laptops while commuting, allowing them to stay connected to work and other activities, as well as browse the internet in general.
- Check and reply to work emails
- Use maps or trip-planning apps
- Stream music or watch videos
- Stay in touch with family and friends
- Read the news or browse social media
For regular commuters, especially those with long rides between cities, having internet access makes the trip more productive and less tiring.
Where the Wi-Fi Is Available
The service is live across all RTA intercity buses between the Emirate of Dubai and the other Emirates. Routes include:
- Dubai ↔ Sharjah
- Dubai ↔ Abu Dhabi
- Dubai ↔ Ajman
- Dubai ↔ Fujairah
Service coverage is active throughout the journey, though speed may vary depending on location or signal strength in some remote areas.
The Broader Plan
This step is part of the Roads and Transport Authority’s continuous work to speed up digital upgrades across its services, aiming to serve all parts of the community. It aligns with the UAE’s National Digital Government Strategy. It also shows the Authority’s dedication to enhancing everyday transport by making bus trips more useful and pleasant, while helping Dubai move closer to its goal of being the smartest and happiest city worldwide.
Improving the Commuter Experience
The RTA said the service will be monitored and refined over time. There are also plans to explore similar services for other forms of public transport, including marine transport.This move reflects a broader aim to build a well-connected public transit system that supports everyday needs without adding cost or complexity.Last month, the RTA introduced free Wi-Fi at all 43 bus and marine transport stations across Dubai. Meanwhile, free Wi-Fi is available at many public places across the country, including all Dubai Metro stations, Dubai International Airport, and Al Maktoum International Airport.
FAQ
- 1. Is the Wi-Fi really free for everyone?
Yes. You don’t need to register or pay anything. Just connect through your device’s Wi-Fi settings while on the bus.
- 2. Is the service reliable the whole way?
The Wi-Fi works throughout the journey. However, signal strength may fluctuate slightly in some less-covered areas.
- 3. Will other transport services in Dubai get Wi-Fi too?
The RTA plans to review this option for other public services, including marine transport, but no exact timeline has been shared yet.
