Ras Al Khaimah Relaunches Purple Route With Free Rides
New electric bus route improves connectivity and offers free rides for one month
Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (Rakta) has relaunched the Purple Route (Al Nakheel – Manar Mall), marking an important step in improving public transport services and supporting sustainable mobility across the emirate.
From June 3, 2026, the updated route now offers 14 kilometres of wider coverage, new stops, and a better timetable to make travel more reliable, easy, and convenient for residents and visitors.
Improved connectivity across key destinations
The Purple Route covers 14 kilometres in each direction and includes nine key stops. It connects Al Nakheel with Manar Mall and passes through important locations such as the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security, Obaida Allah Hospital, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, Al Seyah Area, Ras Al Khaimah Hospital, the Public Health Centre – Preventive Medicine, and the People of Determination Centre.
With 12 daily trips on an improved schedule, the route is set to give better access to residential, educational, healthcare, and commercial areas in the emirate.
Free rides for one month
To encourage people to try the new service, Rakta will offer free rides on the Purple Route for the first month. This gives residents the chance to use the improved service and enjoy the wider access at no cost.
First electric bus introduced in Ras Al Khaimah
One of the main highlights of the relaunch is the launch of Ras Al Khaimah's first electric bus on a public transport route. This step shows Rakta's commitment to lowering emissions and supporting clean energy solutions as part of the emirate's wider sustainability and green transition goals for 2026.
Enhanced passenger experience
The upgraded service is designed to make daily commuting easier, with shorter waiting times, more convenient stops, and better access to important places like hospitals, universities, government offices, and shopping centres.
Ismail Hassan Al Blooshi, Director General of Rakta, said the relaunch reflects the authority's commitment to modern and sustainable transport solutions.
"The relaunch of the Purple Route reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering modern, efficient, and sustainable transport solutions that serve our community and support the Emirate's long-term vision. Introducing Ras Al Khaimah's first electric bus on this route is a proud milestone that brings us closer to a cleaner, smarter, and more connected transport future,” he said.
Smart travel and future expansion
Passengers are advised to use the Sayer smart app to plan trips, check schedules, and track buses in real time for a smooth travel experience across the network.
The Purple Route relaunch is part of Rakta's wider plan to expand the emirate's public transport network to 215 kilometres, supporting its target to increase urban transport coverage from 55 per cent to 65 per cent by 2026.
AI contributed to the creation of this article.