Common mistakes commuters make while using public transport in Dubai

Millions of people travel by Dubai public transport each day, but are they aware of all the rules? Dubai buses are a cost-effective, convenient mode of transport throughout most parts of the emirate. For those who take the bus every day, it is essential for them to know these rules to avoid getting penalised.

Khaleej Times reported about common mistakes that passengers make while travelling in the bus:

1. Avoid standing in the sections marked red and also near the side doors. You can be penalised for your own safety.

2. Don’t just swipe and go inside the bus. Check the card reader for account balance to be sure.

3. Don’t hold the NOL card for too long on the card reader. This might result in check-in and check-out at the same time.

4. Although it might be tempting to check out before the bus halts at your destination to avoid the rush, resist that temptation. This is one of the most common mistakes made by passengers. Wait for the bus to halt and then proceed to check-out.

5. Do not forget to check out, else the system will charge you more for the journey. This is how it works. When you check in, the system deducts the maximum amount of Dh7.50 if you are travelling inside Dubai. Even if the journey costs you Dh3 when you check in, the system will deduct Dh7.50 initially. When you check out, it will credit back Dh4.50 to your account. If you didn’t check out, the journey will cost you Dh7.50.

6. Chewing gum or eating/drinking is strictly prohibited in the bus.

7. Sleeping inside the bus is not allowed.

8. Refusing to get down from the vehicle when asked by the driver or inspector due to overload, or because of disturbances caused to other passengers can attract a fine of Dh100.

9. Dh50 fine can be imposed in case of a passenger quarrels with somebody else.

10. Failure to pay the due tariff or keep the ticket until the end of the trip can cost you Dh200.