Long school bus rides have been a daily concern for many families across the Emirates. Now, the government has stepped in.
The UAE school bus journey time is officially capped at 45 minutes for kindergarten students and 60 minutes for all other pupils. The announcement came during a Federal National Council (FNC) session after parents raised concerns about children spending up to two hours on school buses.
For many residents in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, this update will feel overdue.
Parents Speak Up About Long Commutes
The issue was raised at the FNC after reports that some students were spending more than two hours daily commuting between home and school.
In growing communities on the outskirts of Sharjah or newer areas like Dubai South, long bus routes have become common. Early morning pickups. Multiple stops. Heavy traffic along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. By the time some students reached school, they were already exhausted.
Parents said the long travel time was affecting their children’s mood, concentration, and energy levels. Younger children, especially those in kindergarten, were seen as most affected.
The conversation quickly turned toward student well-being. Fatigue impacts learning. And in a country that prioritises education standards, that raised concern.
New Time Limits Now in Place for School Transport
Minister of Education Sarah Al Amiri confirmed that maximum bus journey times are now clearly defined:
- 45 minutes for kindergarten students
- 60 minutes for all other students
According to the Ministry, no official data is showing any route exceeding two hours. Still, the new cap strengthens oversight and sets firm expectations for schools and transport providers.
Compliance with approved time limits reportedly reached 98.5 per cent during the first term of the current academic year. Officials also stated that average journey times have been reduced by nearly 50 per cent compared to previous years.
That is a significant improvement, especially in high-density school zones.
When Delays May Still Happen?
Anyone who drives during the UAE rush hour knows that traffic can be unpredictable.
Accidents. Roadworks. Foggy winter mornings. Sudden rain. These factors can affect travel times, even with strict route planning in place.
The Ministry acknowledged that rare exceptions may occur due to circumstances beyond its control. However, extended travel time should not be a routine practice.
The aim is simple: under normal conditions, bus rides must remain within the approved timeframe.
For parents who rely on school transport every day, that clarity matters.
When Weather and Road Conditions Interfere?
School transport planning is more complex than it appears.
Late student registrations were highlighted as a key issue. When families finalise enrolment close to the start of term, bus routes often need last-minute adjustments. That can temporarily increase journey times until routes are stabilised.
To strengthen monitoring, the Ministry has established a dedicated transport quality unit. This team reviews routes regularly, monitors daily performance, and addresses complaints linked to school transportation.
As residential communities expand across the UAE, route planning must constantly adapt. New developments in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman mean longer distances between homes and established school hubs. That makes efficient coordination even more important.
Less Travel Time, More Time at Home
For working parents, school buses are not just a convenience. They are essential.
Shorter journeys mean children can wake up later. They return home less tired. There is more time for homework, tuition classes, sports, and family dinners.
In fast-paced cities like Dubai, where parents balance office hours, traffic, and packed schedules, cutting even 30 minutes from a daily commute can make a difference.
It also supports a wider focus on student wellbeing. Over the past year, education authorities have introduced several initiatives to improve learning conditions and reduce stress on students.
This decision fits into that broader approach.
You may also be interested in:
- New academic calendar changes announced for UAE schools
- Updated Ramadan school timings across the Emirates
- Major education policy updates affecting UAE parents
These ongoing reforms reflect the country’s continued investment in its education system.
A Clear Message from Authorities
The introduction of the UAE school bus journey time cap sends a direct signal: extended daily commutes for students are not acceptable.
- While traffic-related delays may occasionally occur, structured limits are now in place. Monitoring has improved. Compliance levels are high.
- For families who have voiced concerns over the years, this update brings reassurance.
- And for students, it means less time on the road and more time where it counts — in classrooms, at home, and with friends.
- As discussions around education quality continue in the FNC, school transport will likely remain under close review.
- For now, shorter rides are the new standard.
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