Dubai to Host UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2026
Dubai is set to host the UITP Global Public Transport Summit from April 21 to 23, 2026, marking a significant event in the realm of sustainable and smart mobility. This summit highlights the emirate’s commitment to innovation in public transport and its role as a global leader in urban mobility solutions.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) officially commenced preparations for the summit during a recent event attended by key government officials and industry leaders. This gathering reaffirmed Dubai’s status as a center for transport innovation and excellence.
A Commitment to Sustainable Mobility
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, emphasized that hosting the summit represents Dubai’s ongoing efforts to shape the future of mobility. He noted that the city’s public transport network has become essential for daily commuting, with the proportion of trips made using public and shared transport increasing from 6% in 2006 to 21.6% in 2024. This growth reflects the success of Dubai’s previous hosting of the UITP event in 2011.
Al Tayer inaugurated the summit’s official launch, which was attended by Mohamed Mezghani, Secretary General of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), alongside other senior officials from both public and private sectors. He highlighted the long-standing partnership between the RTA and UITP, which began in 2005 and was solidified when Dubai hosted the UITP World Congress and Exhibition in 2011, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
The upcoming UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2026 is expected to serve as a strategic platform for international dialogue and collaboration. Al Tayer stated that the event will advance policies, innovations, and partnerships that are crucial for developing the next generation of urban mobility systems.
Renée Amilcar, President of UITP, remarked that this summit will be particularly significant as it will be the first held in the United Arab Emirates in fifteen years, coinciding with the 140th anniversary of the UITP Summit. She noted that Dubai will be the first city outside Europe to host the summit under its new annual format, marking a pivotal moment for the region.
Amilcar praised Dubai’s transformation over the past 15 years, highlighting the city’s advancements in infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and innovation. She pointed out that the region is experiencing a significant shift towards sustainable transportation modes, including advanced metro systems and electric buses, which align with national visions and global climate commitments.
A Vision for the Future
The launch event included a panel discussion featuring UITP Secretary General Mohamed Mezghani, Muna Al Osaimi, CEO of the Strategy and Corporate Governance Sector at RTA, and Lindsay Barr, Senior Director of Events and Academy Services at UITP. During a press conference, Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency and Chairman of the Summit’s Organising Committee, reiterated RTA’s commitment to advancing public transport across the UAE and the wider region.
Bahrozyan stated that Dubai exemplifies innovation and transformative progress in public transport. Since hosting the first UITP Global Public Transport Summit in 2011, the emirate has achieved numerous strategic milestones and ambitious initiatives in public transport and smart mobility.
Mezghani commended the evolution of Dubai’s transport system, noting that the city has made remarkable advancements since it last hosted the summit. He expressed excitement about the innovative urban mobility solutions that delegates will experience during the event.
FAQs
What is the UITP Global Public Transport Summit?
The UITP Global Public Transport Summit is an international event that brings together leaders and experts in public transport to discuss innovations, policies, and strategies for improving urban mobility.
When will the summit take place in Dubai?
The summit is scheduled to occur from April 21 to 23, 2026, marking the first time it will be held in the UAE in fifteen years.
How has Dubai’s public transport system evolved?
Since 2011, Dubai’s public transport system has seen significant growth, with an increase in the share of trips made using public and shared transport, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
Conclusion
The UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2026 in Dubai represents a crucial opportunity for global leaders to collaborate on the future of urban mobility. As the emirate prepares for this landmark event, it continues to showcase its dedication to sustainable transport solutions and innovation. The summit promises to be a pivotal moment in advancing public transport initiatives worldwide.
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