Several institutions in Dubai are rolling out carpooling initiatives to ease traffic congestion.
In a bid to address the increasing traffic around school areas, parents are encouraged to explore shared transportation options. While offering carpooling services for a fee is prohibited in the UAE, parents can still coordinate informal, non-commercial carpool arrangements, where they take turns transporting each other’s children.
Principals highlighted that this community-driven effort not only helps alleviate traffic but also promotes a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Hitesh Bhagat, principal of Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills, emphasised that the initiative aims to connect parents living in the same area, allowing them to organise ride-sharing logistics. “By participating in the carpooling initiative, we can significantly reduce traffic congestion and contribute to a more sustainable environment,” he said.
The benefits of carpooling extend beyond just reducing road traffic. Schools highlight the positive impact on community building, with parents forming closer connections and experiencing less stress during the morning school run.
“Carpooling can significantly reduce congestion, making the daily school run much smoother and less stressful. It’s a sustainable approach that not only helps our environment by lowering carbon emissions but also brings parents in nearby localities closer together.
“Parents can come together, share the journey, and create a more enjoyable and efficient travel experience. By embracing carpooling, we can all contribute to saving the environment while making life a bit easier for everyone involved,” Hitesh added.
At Dubai International Academy Al Barsha, although there is no formal policy in place, the school encourages families to carpool, particularly during the warmer months when traffic tends to increase.
“During the summer, we encourage staff and families to consider carpooling to reduce traffic and contribute to sustainability. In cooler months, we encourage cycling and walking where possible,” said Ian Thurston, principal of Dubai International Academy Al Barsha.
Parents often reach out to schools to find others in their area who might be open to sharing rides. While schools cannot share contact information without consent, they assist in connecting interested families when they can.
“We help parents who express interest in carpooling by helping them connect with others,” Thurston noted. “Staff carpooling tends to be easier. Many staff members already carpool regularly, and existing relationships make it easier to coordinate schedules and logistics.”
Thurston added, “We absolutely see a benefit in reducing the number of cars around the site in terms of reducing traffic and the time it takes to clear the site. Even if one car is taken off the road, it will have a sustainable impact.”
In addition to easing traffic, schools like Regent Gulf Indian High School are working on official carpool guidelines to ensure the process is safe and well-coordinated.
“We promote safe and sustainable transport options, encouraging parent-led carpooling among our students, subject to following all the guidelines given by RTA. While a formal policy is still in progress, we have guidelines in place to ensure the safety of our students,” said Dr S. Reshma, principal-director of Regent Gulf Indian High School Dubai.
She added, “The school supports carpooling when coordinated by parents of our enrolled students, ensuring safety and accountability. Staff are also encouraged to carpool with colleagues, especially those commuting from nearby areas.”
For parents already participating in carpooling, the benefits are clear. “I travel abroad often for work, so my wife handles the school drop-offs. We live in Springs, and my son’s school is just 10 minutes away, so we never really considered the school bus. Luckily, there’s another family in the neighborhood whose kids go to the same school,” said Arijit Nandi.
“The two moms take turns every week — it’s been like this for three years now. On the weeks she isn’t driving, my wife uses that time to hit the gym or get a head start on work. It’s worked out so well for both families, and over time, we’ve become good friends,” he added.
Palestinian expat, Fadia Alam echoed a similar experience. “School buses usually take longer, and mornings can already be hectic. So, we teamed up with a family friend. She drives one day, I drive the next. It’s fair, saves us on fuel and transport costs, and the kids get a little extra sleep, which makes a big difference. It’s honestly a win for everyone.”
© Khaleej Times
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