Latest news with #Mahboob
Hi Dubai
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hi Dubai
RTA Initiates Comprehensive Campaign for Trailer Safety Inspections
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a targeted inspection campaign in early 2025 to improve trailer safety across the emirate's roads, uncovering over a hundred technical issues in the process. The initiative, titled Trailer Safety , was conducted by the Licensing Activities Monitoring Department as part of RTA's broader mission to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with technical regulations. Between January and March, inspectors carried out 2,638 checks on heavy vehicles at key locations, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road. Of these, 177 trailers were specifically examined for adherence to critical safety standards. The inspections focused on tyre conditions, brake efficiency, lighting systems, license validity, and driver permits. The campaign revealed 134 technical faults and resulted in 88 violations, with common issues ranging from unfit tyres and defective lights to missing reflective stickers and improper cargo loading. Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the RTA's Licensing Agency, reaffirmed the authority's commitment to routine inspections, highlighting their role in preventing safety risks linked to inadequate vehicle maintenance. He emphasized that the campaign aligns with the agency's annual plan to promote compliance and raise awareness through modern outreach methods. 'This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure road safety by targeting key sectors within the transport system,' Mahboob said. The campaign underscores the RTA's continued focus on reducing traffic risks through proactive enforcement and public education, particularly within the heavy vehicle segment, which plays a critical role in Dubai's transport infrastructure. News Source: Dubai Media Office
Arabian Post
28-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Dubai's Transport Sector Sees Surge in Vehicle Rentals Amid Business Boom
A strong surge in Dubai's vehicle rental sector has been recorded in 2024, with the Roads and Transport Authority reporting a 43 per cent increase in newly registered commercial vehicles compared to 2023. The authority also noted a substantial 33 per cent rise in the number of newly licensed rental companies, highlighting the emirate's strengthening position as a regional transport and logistics hub. The RTA's Licensing Agency confirmed that 867 new rental companies were registered, bringing the total to 3,494 companies operating across the city, up from 2,627 the previous year. The commercial rental fleet grew markedly, reaching 71,040 vehicles compared to 49,725 in 2023, underscoring a clear trend of expansion in Dubai's transport and mobility sectors. Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency at RTA, attributed the growth to Dubai's continued focus on facilitating business-friendly conditions and enhancing transport infrastructure. 'The increase in the number of newly registered vehicles and companies operating in the commercial transport sector demonstrates Dubai's competitiveness and appeal in attracting businesses to this sector. It also underscores the emirate's commitment to accelerating economic growth and fulfilling its overarching development vision,' Mahboob stated. Industry observers point out that Dubai's strategic location, ambitious economic diversification initiatives, and robust regulatory framework are critical factors behind the expanding rental market. The city's focus on preparing for major upcoming global events, such as COP28 and other international conferences, has also fuelled demand for flexible mobility solutions. Analysts further emphasise that the transport sector's upswing aligns with Dubai's broader ambitions under its D33 Economic Agenda, aimed at doubling the size of its economy over the next decade. Market players in the rental industry are experiencing heightened demand from sectors such as tourism, logistics, real estate, and technology. The influx of expatriates, professionals, and digital nomads has significantly contributed to the appetite for short- and medium-term vehicle rentals. According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the emirate welcomed 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023, a number expected to rise in 2024, thereby strengthening mobility requirements across the board. The preference for rental vehicles over private ownership is also being driven by lifestyle shifts, with a growing emphasis on convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. According to a recent mobility survey conducted by consultancy firm Arthur D. Little, nearly 35 per cent of respondents in the UAE indicated a preference for rental or subscription-based vehicle services, suggesting a broader behavioural transformation underway in the transportation domain. Commercial fleet operators have seized the opportunity by expanding their offerings beyond conventional vehicles to include electric vehicles , luxury cars, and specialised logistics transporters. Several leading rental companies have announced plans to increase their EV fleet components, aligning with the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030, which targets a 30 per cent electrification rate across public and private fleets. The supportive regulatory environment has played a pivotal role in boosting confidence among rental businesses. Dubai's Licensing Agency has streamlined procedures for company registration and vehicle licensing, introduced digital platforms for permit applications, and incentivised fleet modernisation programmes. The introduction of smart traffic management systems and expansion of dedicated transport zones have further enhanced operational efficiency for rental operators. Challenges remain, however, particularly concerning market saturation and competitive pricing pressures. As more companies enter the sector, maintaining profitability while ensuring high service standards has become a balancing act for operators. Experts warn that without continuous innovation, quality assurance, and diversification into niche services, some smaller players may struggle to sustain operations over the long term. On the technological front, rental companies are investing heavily in digital transformation initiatives. Mobile booking apps, AI-powered fleet management systems, and customer service chatbots are becoming standard across the sector. Industry executives acknowledge that tech-driven operational efficiencies are crucial to managing costs, enhancing customer satisfaction, and scaling up rapidly to meet growing demand. See also Aramco and BYD Join Forces on Energy Vehicle Innovation The integration of mobility-as-a-service platforms is emerging as a key trend, with rental companies partnering with public transport providers and ride-sharing apps to offer seamless transport solutions. This model aims to cater to a diverse customer base seeking unified, flexible options that combine private rentals with metro, tram, and bus networks. Such integration aligns with Dubai's broader Smart City ambitions and Vision 2021 goals for sustainable urban mobility. Economic analysts at Emirates NBD note that the transport and storage sector in Dubai grew by 11.5 per cent in 2023, reflecting the importance of mobility services to the emirate's GDP. With new infrastructure projects, including expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and investments in Dubai South, the momentum is expected to continue, providing further impetus to ancillary industries like vehicle rentals. The city's drive towards autonomous vehicle deployment and smart transport ecosystems is encouraging rental companies to prepare for future demand shifts. Partnerships between Dubai's government agencies and global automotive technology firms signal a readiness to embrace disruptive mobility solutions. Rental companies that can adapt to these technological shifts are likely to be better positioned for long-term success. The demographic dynamics of Dubai also contribute significantly to the expanding rental landscape. A youthful, tech-savvy population with a preference for service-oriented consumption models tends to favour rental and subscription services over traditional ownership. Additionally, Dubai's tax-free environment, high disposable incomes, and strong entrepreneurial culture attract business travellers and start-up communities that rely heavily on flexible transport solutions.
Gulf Business
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Business
Dubai's vehicle rental sector sees strong growth in 2024
Image: Dubai Media Office/ RTA Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recorded sharp growth in the emirate's vehicle rental sector in 2024, with the number of newly registered commercial vehicles rising about 43 per cent compared to the previous year, the authority said on Saturday. The number of registered rental companies increased by around 33 per cent during the same period, with 867 new companies registered, bringing the total to 3,494, up from 2,627 in 2023. The total rental fleet expanded to 71,040 vehicles from 49,725, according to figures from RTA's Licensing Agency. 'The increase in the number of newly registered vehicles and companies operating in the commercial transport sector demonstrates Dubai's competitiveness and appeal in attracting businesses to this sector,' said Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency at RTA. 'It also underscores the emirate's commitment to accelerating economic growth and fulfilling its overarching development vision.' High-end vehicle rentals rose by 73 per cent, while electric vehicles within the rental fleet grew by 50 per cent compared to 2023, RTA said. Commercial vehicle market is a key sector The sector is seen as critical to supporting Dubai's broader economic and trade ambitions, including the goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda 'D33', which aims to position the city among the world's top three economic hubs. Mahboob said the RTA is continuing to enhance service delivery and regulatory frameworks to support the sector, including initiatives such as the Commercial Vehicle Life Extension Service, which allows vehicles that have exceeded the operational limit to be inspected and registered for an additional year. Other initiatives include the Hourly Commercial Vehicle Rental Service, aimed at promoting safer and more efficient rentals, and the introduction of the Commercial Licensing System (CLS), which simplifies application procedures for investors and service providers. The The car rental sector remains a key pillar of Dubai's economy, supporting both tourism and corporate business activities. Rental operations are regulated through the TARS electronic rental system, which covers light and heavy vehicles and streamlines processes between rental companies and customers. 'The growth in activity within the vehicle
Filipino Times
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- Filipino Times
Dubai's car rental sector sees growth in vehicle registrations, new firms in 2024
Dubai's vehicle rental sector posted significant growth in 2024, marked by a sharp rise in both the number of rental companies and registered commercial vehicles. A total of 867 new rental companies were registered during the year, bringing the overall number of active firms to 3,494—up from 2,627 in 2023. This represents a 33% increase in companies operating within the sector. In terms of fleet size, 71,040 commercial vehicles were registered by the end of 2024, compared to 49,725 the previous year. This translates to a 43% increase in newly registered rental vehicles. Electric and luxury rentals also recorded strong growth. High-end vehicle rentals surged by 73%, while electric vehicles increased by 50%, according to the Commercial Transport Activities Department at the Licensing Agency of RTA. 'The increase in the number of newly registered vehicles and companies operating in the commercial transport sector demonstrates Dubai's competitiveness and appeal in attracting businesses to this sector. It also underscores the emirate's commitment to accelerating economic growth and fulfilling its overarching development vision,' Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency at RTA, said. He added that simplified procedures and the removal of operational barriers have played a key role in boosting investor confidence. 'This progress has been driven by the continuous enhancement of service quality and incentives, along with the development of flexible and integrated regulatory frameworks that effectively govern all segments of the sector,' Mahboob said. To further support the sector, RTA has rolled out initiatives such as the Commercial Vehicle Life Extension Service, which allows companies to extend the operational lifespan of vehicles that have exceeded the age limit, provided they pass a technical inspection. Other efforts include the Hourly Commercial Vehicle Rental Service, enabling more flexible rental arrangements for individuals and businesses, and the launch of the Commercial Licensing System (CLS), which simplifies application processes for new and existing operators.
Zawya
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
43% surge in commercial vehicles, 33% growth in vehicle rental firms in 2024: RTA
DUBAI: As part of its ongoing efforts to support commercial transport activities, a vital sector that underpins Dubai's economic and trade landscape and supports the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) to position the city among the world's top three economic hubs, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recorded substantial growth in the vehicle rental sector in 2024 compared to 2023. The number of newly registered commercial vehicles rose by approximately 43%, while the number of registered vehicle rental companies increased by around 33% during the same period. According to the Commercial Transport Activities Department at RTA's Licensing Agency, 867 new rental companies were registered in 2024, bringing the total number of active companies in the sector to 3,494, up from 2,627 in 2023. The total number of vehicles in the rental fleet reached 71,040 by the end of 2024, compared to 49,725 the previous year. The sector also witnessed strong growth in high-end vehicle rentals, which rose by 73%, while electric vehicles within the rental fleet increased by 50% compared to 2023. Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency, RTA stated: 'The increase in the number of newly registered vehicles and companies operating in the commercial transport sector demonstrates Dubai's competitiveness and appeal in attracting businesses to this sector. It also underscores the emirate's commitment to accelerating economic growth and fulfilling its overarching development vision. By offering streamlined procedures and removing barriers, RTA continues to support private sector companies and investors, bolstering their confidence in Dubai's business landscape and its position as a global hub for commerce and finance.' He noted that RTA remains dedicated to continuous improvement and service excellence by providing innovative solutions that address private sector needs. This includes aligning service delivery with sector-specific requirements to enhance customer satisfaction and strengthen trust in Dubai's business and investment environment. 'The growth in activity within the vehicle rental sector, both in terms of the number of vehicles and registered companies, further underscores RTA's pioneering role in facilitating business operations in this domain. This progress has been driven by the continuous enhancement of service quality and incentives, along with the development of flexible and integrated regulatory frameworks that effectively govern all segments of the sector,' added Mahboob. He also highlighted several RTA initiatives that have notably reinforced support for the commercial transport sector. One such initiative is the 'Commercial Vehicle Life Extension Service', which allows applicants to schedule appointments to extend the operational lifespan of vehicles that have exceeded the permitted limit. The extension is granted for one year, enabling the renewal of the vehicle's registration upon passing the technical inspection requirements. Another key initiative is the 'Hourly Commercial Vehicle Rental Service', which enables both individuals and companies to rent commercial transport vehicles on an hourly basis, promoting safer and more efficient service delivery. Additionally, the introduction of the 'Commercial Licensing System (CLS)' has streamlined the customer journey by simplifying application procedures for new investors and existing service providers, while also enhancing governance and expediting the approval process.
