RTA Opens 2026 Dubai Sustainable Transport Award

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport, inviting organisations and individuals to showcase innovative solutions that advance clean, smart, and environmentally responsible mobility.

The award is a flagship initiative that recognises excellence, innovation, and measurable impact in sustainable transport. It reflects Dubai’s long-term commitment to reducing emissions, improving transport efficiency, and enhancing quality of life through forward-looking mobility solutions. Applications are now open for projects that contribute meaningfully to greener, safer, and more intelligent transport systems.

Advancing Dubai’s Vision for Sustainable Mobility

The launch of the 2026 edition of the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport aligns closely with Dubai’s broader sustainability and climate objectives. Transport plays a critical role in urban emissions and energy consumption, and transforming mobility systems is essential to building more resilient and liveable cities.

Through this award, Dubai aims to:

• Encourage innovation in clean and smart transport

• Support the transition to low-emission mobility

• Promote best practices in urban transport planning

• Foster collaboration between public and private sectors

By recognising impactful initiatives, the award reinforces Dubai’s ambition to be a global leader in sustainable and future-ready transport.

What Is the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport?

The Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport is a prestigious platform that celebrates outstanding contributions to sustainable mobility across public, private, academic, and community sectors. It highlights projects that demonstrate innovation, scalability, and positive environmental and social impact.

The award focuses on initiatives that:

• Reduce transport-related emissions

• Improve energy efficiency and fuel alternatives

• Enhance public transport and shared mobility

• Integrate digital and smart mobility technologies

• Promote safer, more inclusive transport systems

Over the years, the award has gained regional and international recognition, positioning Dubai as a hub for sustainable transport innovation.

Why Sustainable Transport Matters More Than Ever

Transport is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions globally, particularly in urban environments. Road congestion, fossil fuel dependency, and inefficient transport systems contribute significantly to air pollution and climate change.

The Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport addresses these challenges by:

• Promoting clean energy and low-carbon transport solutions

• Encouraging behavioural change and public awareness

• Supporting innovation that reduces environmental impact

• Aligning transport development with climate action goals

By rewarding practical and scalable solutions, the award helps accelerate the adoption of sustainable mobility practices that benefit cities, communities, and future generations.

Who Can Apply for the 2026 Award?

The 2026 Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport is open to a broad range of participants from both within the UAE and internationally. Eligible applicants include:

• Government entities and public institutions implementing sustainable transport initiatives

• Private sector companies developing clean or smart mobility technologies

• Startups and innovators offering disruptive green transport solutions

• Research institutions and universities with applied mobility projects

• Non-profit and community organisations improving access and mobility outcomes

Both completed projects and ongoing initiatives with demonstrable impact are eligible, provided they align with the award’s sustainability objectives.

Key Award Categories and Focus Areas

The award features multiple categories designed to capture the full spectrum of sustainable transport innovation.

Innovation in Clean Transport Technology

This category recognises projects that:

• Improve fuel efficiency

• Reduce carbon and pollutant emissions

• Use alternative or renewable energy sources

• Advance electric, hydrogen, or hybrid mobility

Eligible initiatives may include electric vehicle infrastructure, alternative fuel systems, or emission-reduction technologies.

Smart Mobility and Digital Solutions

Smart mobility solutions that leverage data and technology to improve transport performance are a core focus. This includes:

• Intelligent traffic management systems

• Mobility-as-a-service platforms

• AI-driven transport planning tools

• Digital solutions that enhance commuter experience

These innovations support more efficient, connected, and user-centric transport networks.

Sustainable Infrastructure Development

This category highlights infrastructure projects that:

• Improve safety and accessibility

• Support public and non-motorised transport

• Enhance connectivity and urban integration

• Reduce environmental footprint

Examples include pedestrian-friendly designs, cycling infrastructure, and integrated transport hubs.

Community Impact and Awareness

Projects that promote public engagement and behavioural change are also recognised. This includes initiatives that:

• Raise awareness about sustainable transport

• Encourage public transport usage

• Support inclusive and equitable mobility

• Deliver measurable community benefits

Evaluation Criteria and Judging Process

Applications are assessed by expert panels based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including:

• Originality and innovation

• Environmental and social impact

• Scalability and replicability

• Contribution to emission reduction

• Alignment with sustainable development goals

Projects that demonstrate real-world results, long-term viability, and strong potential for broader adoption are particularly favoured.

How to Apply for the 2026 Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport

Interested applicants can submit their entries through the official RTA digital portal. The application process is designed to be transparent and user-friendly.

Application Steps

1. Register on the official RTA award platform

2. Select the relevant award category

3. Submit detailed project information

4. Upload supporting documentation, such as:

   • Case studies

   • Performance data

   • Technical reports

   • References or endorsements

Applicants are encouraged to submit well-documented entries that clearly outline impact, outcomes, and future potential. The application deadline is published on the official RTA website.

Benefits of Participating in the Award

Participation in the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport offers significant advantages beyond winning.

Recognition and Credibility

Shortlisted and winning projects receive high-profile recognition, enhancing credibility among policymakers, investors, and industry leaders.

Networking and Partnerships

Participants gain opportunities to connect with:

• Government decision-makers

• Transport authorities

• Industry experts

• Sustainability leaders

These connections can lead to collaborations, pilot projects, and commercial opportunities.

Support for Scaling Innovations

Award recognition can help innovators scale their solutions through partnerships, funding interest, and increased visibility across the region.

Inspiration and Thought Leadership

The award encourages organisations to think boldly, innovate responsibly, and contribute to global sustainability goals.

What the Award Means for Dubai’s Transport Future

The opening of applications for the 2026 award highlights Dubai’s proactive approach to shaping the future of mobility. By encouraging innovation and recognising excellence, the RTA is fostering an ecosystem where sustainable transport solutions can thrive.

This initiative supports:

• Cleaner air and reduced emissions

• Improved urban quality of life

• Smarter, data-driven transport planning

• Long-term resilience of transport systems

Dubai’s model demonstrates how cities can use incentives and recognition to drive meaningful change in mobility and climate action.

Broader Regional and Global Impact

Although rooted in Dubai, the award has implications beyond the emirate. By welcoming international participants, it serves as a global platform for sharing best practices and scalable transport solutions.

It also reinforces the UAE’s role as a regional leader in sustainability, innovation, and smart city development, setting benchmarks that other cities can adopt and adapt.

Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Sustainable Mobility

The opening of applications for the 2026 Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport marks another important step in Dubai’s journey toward cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable mobility. By recognising impactful projects across innovation, infrastructure, and community engagement, the award empowers organisations and individuals to contribute to meaningful environmental progress.

For innovators, startups, institutions, and public bodies working in transport and sustainability, this award represents a valuable opportunity to gain recognition, build partnerships, and help shape the future of mobility.

Those with solutions that reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and enhance urban life are encouraged to apply and become part of Dubai’s vision for a sustainable transport future.