As per the media reports, nearly 518 Citea buses would be purchased by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) for Dubai, from the Netherlands-based company VDL, in a deal worth Dh845.74 million.

Furthermore, an eight-year fleet maintenance and service agreement has also been signed by the RTA for Dh1.050 billion. Mattar Al Tayer, the chairman of the board and executive director of RTA informed about this recent development today.

Mr. Al Tayer said that Roads and Transport Authority is aiming to upgrade mass transport in Dubai, and lure new commuters in an effort to reduce road traffic congestion. He added that buying these new buses is a part of this comprehensive strategic plan.

He said: "RTA is seeking to boost the share of mass transport to up to 30 per cent of person trips in the emirate; through provision of mass transport alternatives of high quality, reasonable cost and wide geographical coverage to compete private vehicles." It should be noted that new buses will be deployed on feeder lines of Dubai Metro stations.

Each bus, which would carry 68 passengers, would measure 12 meters. The buses would also be installed with a hi-tech air-conditioning system and top security and safety standards. The buses have been designed in order to meet the requirements of special needs of people; with a low-floor and a dedicated entrance and seating area.

Mr. Al Tayer concluded: "The buses are fully-equipped with state-of-the-art passenger information systems, a real time vehicle monitoring system and automated fare collection system."