Abu Dhabi introduces new unified bus fares effective today
UAE's new public transport fare system, called the 'Standard Service', is set to revolutionize city and suburban transportation starting February 28 in Abu Dhabi.
Under this system, passengers will pay a Dh2 boarding fee plus an additional 5 fils for every kilometer traveled, with a maximum journey cost capped at Dh5, according to the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). The aim is to create a more inclusive fare system that covers wider geographic areas while ensuring a simplified and user-friendly experience for passengers.
One of the key features of the 'Standard Service' is the ability for passengers to transfer seamlessly between bus services without incurring an additional boarding fee. However, there are conditions attached to this service. Passengers must tap in to the other service within 60 minutes of their last tap-out, cannot transfer in the opposite direction of their journey, and are allowed a maximum of 2 transfers using 3 buses. These transfer conditions also apply between the Abu Dhabi Link service and public transportation bus Standard Services.
When determining the total cost of a trip that involves many bus changes, the distance between the starting and ending places is major factor. For each bus ride to be recorded as a separate trip, riders must tap their "Hafilat" card upon boarding and exiting. Loss of fare or other penalties could occur if the card is not tapped.
The public transport passes have also undergone changes. The 'Standard Service' now includes city and suburban areas in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra (excluding intercity services). Prices for passes are set at Dh35 for a 7-day pass and Dh95 for a 30-day pass, effective immediately on February 28, 2024. Existing passes will remain valid until their expiration but will operate within city limits only and will not cover suburban areas.
Emirati families with limited incomes enrolled in social support programs are eligible for subsidized public transport passes. These passes are offered at a rate of Dh30 for a 7-day pass and Dh80 for a 30-day pass.
