Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has temporarily suspended all intercity bus services linking Dubai with Ajman and Sharjah. The halt will remain in effect until further notice.
Dubai’s RTA Pauses Intercity Bus Connectivity with Ajman and Sharjah
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has declared a temporary halt to all intercity bus operations connecting Dubai with Ajman and Sharjah, attributing the decision to the ongoing unstable weather conditions affecting the region. This disruption to bus services is part of the authority’s precautionary measures aimed at protecting passengers and road users amid unpredictable atmospheric developments.
The suspension of these intercity bus routes will stay in effect until further updates are provided by the transport authority. Officials have emphasized that the situation remains under close observation, and decisions regarding the resumption of services will be made only after evaluating improvements in weather conditions and ensuring that travel can be conducted safely.
While bus operations between cities have been impacted, RTA says that Dubai’s Metro network continues to function as normal. Trains are running on schedule across all metro lines, and commuters relying on rapid transit services are not expected to experience interruptions. The authority is encouraging people to make use of the metro where possible and to stay informed about any service announcements via official communication channels. This includes updates shared through RTA’s verified social media accounts, website notifications, and customer support services.
With weather conditions remaining unsettled, residents and visitors in Dubai are strongly advised to plan their travel carefully. Those who usually depend on intercity buses should look for alternative travel arrangements or adjust their itineraries until the suspension is lifted. Given the likelihood of sudden changes in conditions, staying updated through official RTA alerts will help commuters avoid inconvenience and ensure that journeys are undertaken with awareness of the latest developments.
Earlier in the week, Dubai authorities issued reminders about essential emergency contact numbers so that the public would be prepared as the forecast indicated unstable atmospheric conditions would prevail from Wednesday, December 17 through Friday, December 19. The aim of sharing these contacts was to ensure that individuals could quickly reach the relevant services in case they needed assistance or immediate support during adverse weather events.
Officials have stressed the importance of staying alert and taking necessary safety precautions as the weather evolves. Given the forecast issued by meteorological authorities, the city is likely to witness rainfall of differing intensities across Dubai, with precipitation expected to occur intermittently rather than continuously. These showers could affect various areas at different times, making it essential for residents to remain vigilant and prepared for sudden changes.
The National Meteorological Department has also advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel when possible and to seek shelter indoors during periods of heavier rainfall. Communities are being urged to exercise caution when navigating roadways, as water accumulation and reduced visibility can make driving conditions hazardous. Additionally, the department has underscored the need to follow any directives issued by civil defense or municipal authorities, as these instructions are tailored to maximize public safety and mitigate risk.
The current unstable conditions stem from a large low-pressure system that has been influencing weather patterns across the Middle East, bringing significant rainfall to several parts of the region over the past week. Meteorologists have indicated that this weather system remains active and capable of producing further unstable conditions, including storm activity, throughout the UAE and neighboring areas.
Forecast models suggest that the intensity of the weather could increase on Thursday, with thunderstorms anticipated to develop as the day progresses. According to meteorological summaries, a storm system is projected to move from west to east — initially affecting regions like Saudi Arabia during daytime hours before shifting eastward toward the United Arab Emirates and Qatar during the night. These dynamics are expected to result in a continuation of unsettled conditions, with the potential for localized heavy rainfall and gusty winds.
In light of this forecast, officials are urging individuals to stay informed about evolving weather trends and to take sensible measures to protect themselves, their families, and their property. Residents are reminded that unpredictable weather can pose various hazards, including flash flooding in low-lying areas, slippery roads, and potential disruptions to utilities or communications in extreme cases. Taking proactive steps — such as securing loose items outdoors, avoiding travel during peak rainfall, and monitoring official weather advisories — can substantially reduce risks associated with severe weather.
Government entities and emergency services are also on heightened alert to respond to any weather-related incidents. Coordination between different departments ensures that assistance can be provided quickly when required, whether that involves road rescue operations, medical support, or infrastructure maintenance. Citizens and residents are encouraged to save emergency numbers on their devices and to reach out without hesitation if they encounter urgent situations that demand immediate professional attention.
Despite the disruption to intercity bus travel, RTA’s continuation of Dubai Metro operations reflects efforts to maintain some degree of normality in public transportation. The metro remains a reliable and efficient option for many commuters, particularly those traveling within Dubai itself. Authorities have reiterated that all necessary safety checks and monitoring are in place to ensure that metro services can proceed without risk to passengers.
In summary, the temporary suspension of bus services between Dubai and neighboring emirates is a precautionary action in response to unstable weather forecasts. While this measure may cause inconvenience for some commuters, it underscores the priority placed on safety. With rainfall expected in scattered locations and thunderstorms possible as the week progresses, residents are encouraged to stay updated, take precautions, and plan their travel thoughtfully until conditions stabilize and full transport services can resume.
