Dubai: Can Children Travel Unaccompanied on Metro, Buses?

RTA has established explicit guidelines for unaccompanied kids using various public transportation options.

One of the safest places in the world is the United Arab Emirates, and Dubai in particular. Many parents don't have any issues using public transportation to get their kids to school or extracurricular activities. If you used the metro early in the morning or around 2:00 pm, you might have encountered boys and girls heading to or from school while wearing their uniforms, carrying bags, and speaking.

There's no need to fret if you've ever questioned if this is safe or legal; Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has very explicit policies in place regarding kids riding the bus or metro.

Based on age, the RTA has the following laws regarding unaccompanied kids riding public transportation or the metro:

• It is advised that children under the age of eight should only ride public transportation with adults.
• Except for intercity buses, children between the ages of 8 and 11 are permitted to travel alone on public transportation, but they must have parental consent.
• Children 12 years old and older are allowed to ride public transportation alone without an adult present.

In addition to being convenient and safe forms of transportation, the bus and metro may be more affordable for students when using the student Nol card. Children can travel for less with this card.

News Source: Khaleej Times