Dubai Roads and Transport Authority strategic agreements mark a major milestone as the city prepares to host the UITP 2026 Summit. These partnerships with prominent sponsors highlight Dubai’s commitment to innovation in public transport and sustainable mobility.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has recently signed several important agreements with leading sponsors in preparation for the UITP 2026 Summit. This global event will bring together the best minds in transportation to explore future-ready solutions, making Dubai a hub for smart and sustainable transit.
Strategic Agreements Signed by Dubai Roads and Transport Authority
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), alongside Mohamed Mezghani, Secretary General of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), witnessed the signing of five strategic agreements of platinum-level sponsorship for the UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2026.
These agreements were signed with major companies: Al Naboodah Group, Dubai Taxi Company, Keolis Group, United Motors & Heavy Equipment Company, and RATP Group.
Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency at RTA, signed the agreements on behalf of the RTA. Representing the sponsoring companies were:
- Mansoor Al Falasi, CEO of Dubai Taxi Company
- Khalifa Saif Darwish Al Ketbi, General Manager of United Motors & Heavy Equipment Company
- Ajit Kumar, CEO of Swaidan Trading Company (part of Al Naboodah Group)
- Vikas Sardana, Acting Managing Director of Keolis MHI (on behalf of Keolis Group)
- Khellil Beneloucif, MENA Business Development and Administration Director at RATP Dev
The Importance of These Strategic Agreements
Ahmed Bahrozyan expressed the RTA’s enthusiasm in welcoming these distinguished companies as platinum sponsors for the UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2026. He said, “Their participation strengthens the partnership between the public and private sectors and supports the vision and directives of our wise leadership in this field. It also contributes to advancing the nation’s economic growth and overall development.”
Bahrozyan added, “The participation of these key partners plays a vital role in ensuring the success of this global event, supporting RTA, and reinforcing its continued efforts to enhance Dubai’s standing as a leading global city in the exhibitions and conferences industry. It also consolidates Dubai’s reputation as a safe, advanced, and progressive city that continues to attract visitors, tourists, investors, and business leaders from across the world.”
Prominent Sponsors Share Their Vision
The five platinum sponsors expressed their pleasure and commitment to the summit and Dubai’s future mobility.
Khalifa Saif Darwish Al Ketbi, General Manager of United Motors & Heavy Equipment Company, said:
“We are proud to be the Strategic Sponsor of UITP 2026 here in Dubai — a city that continues to lead global innovation in smart and sustainable mobility. Our partnership with RTA Dubai reflects our shared commitment to shaping the future of transport and creating smarter, more connected cities.”
Ajit Kumar, CEO of Swaidan Trading Company (part of Al Naboodah Group), stated:
“It has been our proud privilege to be associated with UITP and RTA Dubai over the last several years. We congratulate RTA and the city of Dubai for once again hosting the UITP world congress in April 2026 and keenly look forward to our active participation as a Platinum Sponsor along with our global partners. It will be a proud moment for all of us to see the significant progress made by RTA Dubai in improving the public transport infrastructure that has dramatically impacted the lives of residents and tourists by providing safe and connected multi-modal mobility for all.”
Mansoor Al Falasi, CEO of Dubai Taxi Company, commented:
“Dubai Taxi Company is honoured to be the Platinum Sponsor of the UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2026; a prestigious event that underscores Dubai’s global leadership in advancing sustainable mobility. For over three decades, DTC has been at the heart of Dubai’s movement, driving innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centric solutions that have connected communities and supported the city’s growth and progress. As a long-standing partner of UITP, this collaboration provides a valuable platform for DTC to showcase its initiatives in smart mobility while engaging with global stakeholders to build greener, more resilient transport systems. This sponsorship further solidifies DTC’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s vision of a smart, integrated, and sustainable transport ecosystem and reinforces our role as a key enabler in shaping the future of mobility.”
Laurence Broseta, CEO International, Keolis Group, said:
“Keolis is very proud to be a Platinum Partner of UITP and RTA for the UITP Global Public Transport Summit 2026 in Dubai. As the operator of Dubai’s Metros and Trams network for RTA, this event has a special significance for us. It will be a unique opportunity to share best practices, exchange knowledge, and showcase innovative mobility solutions that make public transport more sustainable and attractive.”
Khellil Beneloucif, MENA Business Development and Administration Director at RATP Dev, said:
“As a long-standing partner of UITP and a committed advocate for public transport, RATP Group is honored to once again participate as a Platinum Sponsor at the UITP Global Public Transport Summit. Our contribution reflects our unwavering dedication to promoting the values of accessible, sustainable, attractive, and innovative mobility—values at the heart of public transport worldwide. We are proud to help make Dubai a global showcase for excellence in urban mobility, where ambition and collaboration set new standards for cities everywhere. Dubai’s journey in mobility is a testament to what can be achieved when innovation and partnership come together. Through our continued engagement, we are committed to supporting Dubai’s transformation into a living laboratory for seamless and sustainable urban transport.”
What is the UITP 2026 Summit?
The UITP (International Association of Public Transport) Summit is one of the world’s largest gatherings dedicated to public transport and urban mobility. The event features discussions, workshops, and exhibitions showcasing new technologies and strategies aimed at improving transport systems worldwide.
Hosting the 2026 Summit in Dubai reflects the city’s rapid growth and strong focus on cutting-edge transportation infrastructure. This prestigious event provides a platform for Dubai to showcase its advancements and leadership in sustainable mobility.
Why These Agreements Matter for Dubai’s Future
These strategic agreements are more than just sponsorships. They symbolize strong partnerships between public and private sectors working together to achieve Dubai’s vision of smart, sustainable transportation.
By involving leading companies in the transport and mobility sectors, the RTA is strengthening Dubai’s position as a global leader in innovation. The collaboration supports economic growth, knowledge exchange, and the adoption of advanced transport technologies.
Boosting Dubai’s Transport Sector
With the support of these sponsors, Dubai can accelerate smart mobility projects, including electric vehicles, autonomous transport, and integrated transport networks.
Creating Economic Opportunities
The UITP Summit will attract thousands of visitors, investors, and industry experts. This influx will boost local businesses, tourism, and international investments.
Enhancing Dubai’s Global Reputation
These partnerships reinforce Dubai’s image as a safe, advanced, and dynamic city that fosters innovation and welcomes global collaboration.
What to Expect at the UITP 2026 Summit
- Conferences and Panels: Explore topics like AI in transport, smart ticketing, and sustainable urban mobility.
- Exhibitions: Discover cutting-edge transport technology and infrastructure projects.
- Workshops and Training: Learn from experts and engage in skill-building sessions.
- Networking: Connect with global leaders, innovators, and policymakers.
Conclusion
Dubai Roads and Transport Authority strategic agreements with prominent sponsors set the stage for a successful UITP 2026 Summit. These partnerships highlight Dubai’s dedication to building a sustainable, efficient, and innovative public transport system.
As Dubai prepares to welcome the world in 2026, the collaboration between RTA and its sponsors will play a crucial role in showcasing the future of urban mobility — a future that is smart, sustainable, and inclusive.
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