Dubai: Can Children Travel Alone on Metro, Buses?

Dubai, renowned for its safety and efficiency, has become a haven for families. Parents often entrust public transportation, including the metro and buses, to ferry their children to various activities. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has laid out explicit guidelines to ensure the safety and legality of unaccompanied minors using these services.

Safety in the Emirates:

Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, stands as one of the safest places globally. Many parents confidently rely on public transportation for their children’s daily commutes to school and extracurricular activities.

RTA Guidelines for Unaccompanied Children:

To address concerns about the safety and legality of children traveling alone, the RTA has established clear policies based on age:

1. Children Under 8:
   • It is recommended that children under the age of eight travel with adults when using public transportation.
2. Ages 8 to 11:
   • Children between the ages of 8 and 11 are permitted to travel unaccompanied on public transportation, excluding intercity buses. However, parental consent is a prerequisite.
3. Ages 12 and Older:
   • Children aged 12 and above are allowed to travel independently on public transportation without the need for adult supervision.

Student Nol Card Benefits:

Beyond safety regulations, the RTA offers additional incentives for student travelers. By utilizing the student Nol card, students can not only enjoy the convenience and safety of public transportation but also benefit from reduced fares, making buses and the metro a more economical choice for their daily journeys.

Dubai’s commitment to safety, coupled with the RTA’s explicit guidelines, ensures that the city’s young commuters can navigate public transportation confidently and securely.