Which Dubai Bus Ad Format Fits Your Campaign? A Fun Guide to Bus Types and Specs

Why Bus Advertising Works in Dubai

Dubai’s buses move across almost every major road, carrying your message to both commuters and passers-by. Every route brings your brand to a new audience, from business districts to residential areas. A single bus can reach tens of thousands of people a day, making it a moving billboard that never stops working. Choosing the right bus type is key to getting the attention your brand deserves.

Standard Single-Deck Buses

These are the everyday RTA buses you see most often across Dubai. They are about 10 to 13 metres long and give brands a large side surface for creative designs.

Why choose this format:

• Great coverage across the city.
• Works well for full-side or partial wraps.
• Seen clearly by both drivers and pedestrians.

Approximate ad specs:

• Side panel: around 10m long by 2.5m high.
• Rear panel: ideal for a bold logo or short message.
• Interior posters: perfect for detailed messages for seated passengers.

Best for: Brands looking for strong citywide visibility and frequent exposure.

Articulated or “Bendy” Buses

These are the long buses made of two connected sections with a flexible joint in the middle. They are around 18 metres long and instantly stand out on the road.

Why choose this format:

• Huge surface area for creative full wraps.
• Great for high-impact, bold visuals.
• Creates a sense of movement and size that catches attention easily.

Approximate ad specs:

• Full-wrap: covers the full 18m length and 2.5m height.
• Side layout: perfect for a simple, strong visual stretched across both sections.

Best for: Product launches and large brand campaigns that want to make a big impression.

Double-Decker Buses

The classic red double-decker buses are among the most visible vehicles on Dubai’s streets. At about 14 metres long and almost 4 metres tall, they make a striking sight.

Why choose this format:

• Extra height makes your ad visible from a distance.
• Excellent for routes through central and tourist areas.
• Ideal for creative, photo-worthy designs.

Approximate ad specs:

• Side wrap: about 14m long by 4m high.
• Rear panel: use the upper section for high-impact visuals.

Best for: Premium campaigns, social buzz, and brands that want memorable exposure.

Metro-Link or Feeder Buses

These buses connect passengers to metro and transport hubs. They are smaller and more localised, which makes them perfect for targeted reach.

Why choose this format:

• Focused exposure to daily commuters.
• Great for brands wanting local or neighbourhood awareness.
• Flexible options with smaller wraps or interior panels.

Approximate ad specs:

• Side wraps depend on model size, usually smaller than standard buses.
• Combine with interior posters for better engagement.

Best for: Brands targeting specific communities, metro users, and busy zones.

Key Rules and Design Tips

• At least half of the advertisement should be in Arabic.
• Only Arabic and English text are allowed.
• All vehicle ads need RTA approval before going live.
• Content must follow public guidelines and safety standards.
• Avoid blocking driver visibility or passenger windows.
• Keep designs bold, simple, and easy to read while the bus is moving.

Choosing the Right Format

• For maximum reach: go with standard single-deck buses.
• For maximum impact: choose articulated or double-decker buses.
• For targeted reach: metro-link buses are best for focused zones.
• For balance: mix a few large-format buses with standard ones to reach all corners of the city.

FAQs

Q1: Do I need a permit to advertise on a bus in Dubai?

Yes, all bus ads need approval from the RTA before installation.

Q2: Can I wrap the entire bus including the windows?

You can wrap most of the bus, but safety and visibility rules apply. Some windows must remain clear.

Q3: How much Arabic text should I include?

At least half of your design should be in Arabic, with English allowed for the rest.

Q4: Which bus gives the best value for money?

Standard single-deck buses offer a great mix of reach and cost-effectiveness.

Q5: Can I choose specific routes for my campaign?

Yes, you can plan your routes based on your audience and marketing goals through your media agency.

Want to see your brand move across Dubai’s busiest roads?

Reach out to BusAdvertising.ae to get started. Let’s help your campaign travel further, faster, and smarter.