If you’re around Downtown Dubai anytime soon, you might catch a glimpse of the city’s latest innovation on wheels. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has started testing a new electric bus on route F13, which connects popular spots like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall Metro Bus Stop.
The trial officially started on April 16, starting from the Al Quoz Bus Depot. This route takes passengers through some of Dubai’s busiest and most iconic areas. Here’s where this new F13 bus stops:
- Burj Khalifa
- The Palace Downtown Hotel
- Dubai Fountain
- Dubai Mall Metro Bus Stop (South) – terminal
Inside, there are high-definition cameras for better safety, and digital screens to keep passengers informed. Even the driver gets a futuristic upgrade, with key driving data shown directly on the windscreen.
The bus itself is built for comfort and performance, including strong air conditioning (a must in Dubai summers) and, impressively, a claimed top speed of up to 370km/h — though that might be more about its technical capability than everyday use.
The trial is part of Dubai’s long-term plan to switch all public transport to zero emissions by 2050.
According to Marwan Al Zarooni, who heads the RTA’s Bus Division, this test run allows them to see how the bus handles daily demand, deals with extreme temperatures, and cuts down on emissions. The RTA will be checking everything from battery range to how well the vehicle performs during the scorching summer heat.
