Dubai links with Google Maps to offer real-time bus updates

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has started to run real-time updates of bus timetables on Google Maps in collaboration with Google.

The transport authority said Dubai has become the first city in the Middle East to use open data in public transport, adding the launch will result in better services for passengers.

“Linking and providing instant updates of bus schedules on Google Platform will help public transport riders and keep them

informed of bus timetables, especially in the event of an anticipated early departure or late arrival,” said Khaled Al Awadi, director of Transportation Systems at RTA’s Public Transport Agency.

“Such updates will enable them to better plan their journeys and minimise potential complaints from changes in timetables for unavoidable reasons,” he added.

Previously, Google Maps used to display fixed RTA bus timetables without any updates.

The new initiative aims to overcome delays or early arrival of buses for emergency factors.

“Google Maps are commonly used and are extremely popular worldwide. The initiative is in line with our leaders’ efforts to cater to the needs of Dubai residents, especially riders of public transport; the backbone of people mobility in Dubai,” Al Awadi said.

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