Abu Dhabi's transport authority has unveiled its state-of-the-art Green bus service, which commences operations today. These buses are fueled by clean hydrogen and electric energy, as per the directives of the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) under the Department of Municipalities and Transport. This launch signifies a pivotal advancement in the Green Bus Programme, spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Mobility, aimed at converting Abu Dhabi Island into a public transport green zone by the year 2030.
The new Green Bus service will run on Route 65, connecting Marina Mall with Shams Boutik on Al Reem Island. The programme in Abu Dhabi is a holistic strategy to evaluate and oversee public transport buses within the emirate. Its primary goal is to identify and implement the most effective technologies and solutions in hydrogen and electric power, making these available to residents, visitors, and commuters in the capital. This will be realized through partnerships with international government agencies and bus manufacturers. The programme is specifically designed to suit the local environmental conditions.
It also encompasses the enhancement and development of Emirati skills and expertise via specialized training programmes in hydrogen and electric buses, along with practical training opportunities in South Korea and the People's Republic of China. The assessment phase for the Green Bus Programme, initiated in November 2023, is scheduled to conclude in June 2025. During this period, bus operators, including drivers, will engage in theoretical and practical training sessions coordinated by Abu Dhabi Mobility's partners for the Green Buses. Furthermore, certified technicians will undergo continuous training to ensure they are proficient in daily maintenance and inspections.
The Green Bus Programme evaluates the performance of the buses and sets up on-site support facilities. As the public bus fleet shifts from diesel fuel to renewable energy, it is projected that annual carbon dioxide emissions in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi will decrease by over 100,000 metric tonnes in the future. This programme is viewed as an innovative framework that promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors. The authority collaborates closely with local and international stakeholders, including government bodies and industry leaders, to execute the Green Bus Programme.
Beyond its goal of transforming Abu Dhabi Island into a public transport green zone by 2030, the Green Bus Programme also seeks to reduce carbon emissions from the public transport fleet in Abu Dhabi. The programme will set the standard specifications for green buses that align with the climate and operational needs of the emirate. This reduction in greenhouse gas emissions underscores Abu Dhabi's dedication to the Paris Agreement and its aspiration to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
