Abu Dhabi, 14 Nov 2023, The guidelines and professional requirements were developed by the Integrated Transport Center in collaboration with a working group of experts from government agencies, based on best practices and international standards.
The guide covers several key areas, including specifications for roadside school bus stops and the importance of safety elements on roads between homes and stops. It also provides guidelines for loading and unloading procedures, instructs school bus drivers and students on safe road-crossing practices, and outlines the responsibilities of all stakeholders in the school transportation system. Additionally, it includes emergency procedures for school buses to ensure student safety, explains protocols for assisting students of determination, and addresses the requirements for designing and managing stops in school zones. The guide also addresses concerns raised by parents and the community.
The Abu Dhabi Occupational Requirements for Motorcycle Delivery Drivers have also been adopted, aiming to reduce traffic accidents and driver-related injuries. These requirements promote safety awareness, emphasize the correct use of personal protective equipment (such as helmets, vests, pants, gloves, and safety boots), and educate drivers on accident prevention, including the dangers of excessive speed, distractions, and lane discipline.
Abu Dhabi has also established occupational requirements for public transport and tourist bus drivers, aiming to improve safety standards and service quality in these sectors. These requirements include obtaining professional driving licenses, driver training, vehicle maintenance, bus inspection standards, and provisions for passenger safety and comfort, such as load security and organized passenger distribution.
Engineer Badr Khamis Al Shemaili noted that the outputs of the Standard Technical Committee align with the Council's vision to enhance quality infrastructure and enable Abu Dhabi to excel globally. He added that this initiative is part of the Council’s ongoing collaboration with public and private sector stakeholders to develop technical guidelines that meet regulatory requirements and benefit the community as a whole.
Al Shemaili further explained that ADQCC, in cooperation with partners in the government and private sectors, is committed to regularly updating technical documents to ensure they meet evolving needs in the Emirate, given the continuous changes, developments, and innovations in all sectors. He expressed his gratitude to all involved for their efforts and contributions to preparing this guide and its essential technical requirements. He emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration between the public and private sectors to uphold the highest standards of safety and quality, noting that the Council is developing a conformity program to support regulatory authorities in implementing these guidelines effectively across Abu Dhabi.
Engineer Abdulrahman Al Shizawi, Acting Executive Director of Planning and Strategic Affairs at the Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Center, stated that the guide and professional requirements would help achieve high standards of safety and service across the school, public, and tourism transportation sectors. He emphasized that these efforts underscore Abu Dhabi’s commitment to traffic safety, sustainable development, and improving community services. Al Shizawi encouraged stakeholders, including companies, institutions, parents, and schools, to review and adhere to the guidelines and professional requirements to foster a safe and sustainable transportation environment in Abu Dhabi.
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