Free bus rides for a month accompany a 14km route extension aimed at improving urban connectivity.
Ras Al Khaimah: Residents and visitors can now ride the emirate’s first electric public bus following the launch of the upgraded Purple Route, a major enhancement aimed at expanding public transport coverage, improving access to key destinations and supporting Ras Al Khaimah’s sustainability ambitions.
The Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) announced on Wednesday the rollout of the revamped Purple Route, which links Al Nakheel and Manar Mall. The initiative marks a significant milestone in the emirate’s efforts to modernise its public transport network and promote the adoption of environmentally friendly mobility solutions.
Adding to its appeal, the authority has announced that the service will be free for the first month of operation, allowing residents to experience the upgraded route during its initial trial phase.
Wider coverage, better connectivity
The updated route, which officially entered service on June 3, 2026, now offers a 14-kilometre expansion in coverage. This improvement has been achieved through strategic route adjustments and the introduction of new bus stops, enhancing overall accessibility and connectivity across the network.
The authority has also revised operating schedules to improve service coverage and reliability, making it easier for commuters to access key destinations across the emirate while reducing waiting times.
The move follows customer feedback and is part of Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority’s ongoing efforts to enhance public transport services in line with international best practices.
First electric bus takes to Ras Al Khaimah roads
A key highlight of the launch is the introduction of Ras Al Khaimah’s first electric bus within the public transport network.
The initiative underscores the authority’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of transportation and accelerating the shift towards greener mobility solutions.
The electric bus project is aligned with Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority’s broader sustainability strategy, which includes testing electric buses across the city during 2026 and gradually increasing the share of environmentally friendly vehicles in the emirate’s transport fleet.
Route serves major destinations
The Purple Route spans 14 kilometres in one direction and features nine key stations, connecting residential areas with healthcare, education and government services.
Starting from Al Nakheel, the route passes through several important destinations, including the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, Obaidullah Hospital, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah, the Al Seih area, Ras Al Khaimah Hospital, the Public Health Centre – Preventive Medicine, the People of Determination Centre, and Manar Mall Bus Station. The bus then returns to Al Nakheel along the same route.
To meet passenger demand, the service operates 12 trips per day under an enhanced schedule aimed at improving mobility and encouraging greater use of public transport across the emirate.
Five-route network
The Purple Route is part of a wider five-route public transport system operating across Ras Al Khaimah. The network also includes the Red, Green, Blue and Orange routes, collectively linking major residential, commercial and service areas across the emirate.
Together, these routes offer safe, reliable and convenient travel options while enhancing integration within Ras Al Khaimah’s broader transport network.
Improving everyday journeys
Officials say the upgraded route is expected to make daily commuting more seamless by reducing waiting times, improving access to essential services, and offering more flexible transport options.
The enhanced connectivity is particularly beneficial for passengers travelling to hospitals, government offices, educational institutions, and commercial hubs along the route.
Commitment to sustainable growth
Commenting on the launch, Engineer Ismail Hassan Al Blooshi said the project marks an important milestone in the ongoing development of the emirate’s public transport system.
“The launch of the Purple Route in its new form is a valuable addition to Ras Al Khaimah’s public transport network and reflects the authority’s continued commitment to delivering modern, efficient and sustainable mobility services that meet community needs and support the emirate’s future ambitions,” he said.
Al Blooshi added that the introduction of the first electric bus on the route highlights the authority’s commitment to advancing environmentally friendly transport solutions, enhancing quality of life, and supporting sustainable development goals across the emirate.
He noted that the initiative is part of Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority’s wider transport strategy and its efforts to adopt global best practices in sustainable mobility, while developing an integrated and eco-friendly transport network that supports Ras Al Khaimah’s ongoing urban growth.
Smart planning through Sayer app
The authority also encouraged commuters to use the Sayer app, which allows passengers to plan journeys, check schedules and track routes in real time.
The app offers integrated trip-planning services across multiple transport modes available within the emirate, making travel more convenient and efficient for users.
Network set for further expansion
The Purple Route upgrade forms part of Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority’s broader strategy to expand and enhance the emirate’s internal public transport network.
With the latest enhancement, Ras Al Khaimah’s total public transport network will extend to 215 kilometres, supporting the authority’s goal of increasing urban transport coverage from 55 per cent to 65 per cent by 2026.
The expansion reflects the authority’s commitment to delivering integrated and sustainable mobility solutions, improving connectivity between communities and enhancing the overall quality and efficiency of transport services across the emirate.
