Strategic upgrades completed in line with the Dubai Universal Design Code to ensure independent and seamless access for POD.
DUBAI — In a major step toward building a fully inclusive urban infrastructure, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the successful completion of extensive structural and digital upgrades across its network to implement the Dubai Universal Design Code. The comprehensive enhancements have been rolled out across multiple Customer Happiness Centres, service provider centres, and public transport stations, ensuring that People of Determination (POD) can access services independently, safely, and comfortably.
The initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader vision to enhance the overall quality of life, foster social inclusion, and implement sustainable infrastructure that caters to all segments of the global city’s population.
Comprehensive Physical and Tactile Upgrades
According to Abdulla Yousef Al Ali, CEO of RTA’s Corporate Administrative Support Services Sector, the infrastructure overhaul addresses multiple facets of physical accessibility. The authority has installed dedicated ramps tailored for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility impairments, alongside tactile floor indicators designed to safely guide visually impaired visitors through service channels and facilities.
To further eliminate barriers to mobility, the RTA has integrated automatic doors, upgraded external corridors with distinct floor markings, and completely retrofitted restroom facilities to comply with international accessibility standards.
“RTA also provided accessibility support systems, including Braille signage and assistive hearing devices, enabling customers to easily identify facilities and key areas across service delivery channels,” Al Ali stated.
Redesigned Customer Experience and Smart Services
Beyond physical infrastructure, the RTA has re-engineered its service delivery model. Customer Happiness Centres now feature redesigned token and queue management systems, featuring counter heights and spatial layouts specifically optimized for People of Determination.
Dedicated service counters have been allocated to ensure priority processing for transactions. Furthermore, for those preferring remote access, the RTA has introduced alternative digital channels and highly accessible smart services, reducing the need for physical travel.
Fostering Community Collaboration
The RTA’s strategy relies heavily on direct engagement with the stakeholders it serves. Building on a series of dialogue sessions launched in 2025 in collaboration with the Rashid Centre for People of Determination, the authority extended these initiatives into 2026 by partnering with the Dubai Club for People of Determination.
These consultative sessions involve active participation from students, parents, training and rehabilitation centres, and relevant partners. The dialogues are designed to raise awareness of the RTA’s expanding suite of specialized services while ensuring that the evolving needs of the POD community remain central to Dubai’s transport and community strategy.
