Press Releases
13 Jan 2021
RTA selects 4 start-ups for Phase II of Dubai Future Accelerators
(Challenges focus on developing post-Covid-19 new services)
Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has selected four start-ups as part of Phase II of the Dubai Future Accelerators (DFA) that runs from 17 Jan to 25 Feb 2021. The step is part of RTA’s participation in the eighth edition of the DFA in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation.
“The 8th round of Dubai Future Accelerators includes two key challenges. The first is about how to provide new soft and shared mobility services during the post-Covid-19 stage. The second challenge is about how to make an interactive and community-based transport planning,” said Mohammed Al Mudharreb, Chair of the Executive Committee for Anticipating the Future cum CEO of Corporate Technology Support Services Sector, RTA.
“4 start-ups qualified for Phase II of the DFA from 6 shortlisted start-ups in the initial phase. The selection was made via virtual meetings that took place from 1st to 25th November last year. Submissions were received from 93 local and global start-ups; 45 firms in Challenge 1, and 48 other firms in Challenge 2,” explained Al Mudharreb.
“The selection process was made by judges panel consisting of RTA specialists. The selection criteria focused on the novelty of proposed solutions, compatibility with future trends, workability, effectivity, anticipated impact and value-added. Solutions selected through Phase II qualifiers will be subject to research, development and trial such that they will be ready for practical implementation.
“The First Challenge, which is about new shared mobility services during the post-Covid-19 stage, underscores our perception of the change in mobility behaviours due to the impacts of the pandemic. It warrants innovative solutions to cope with potential emergencies and crises that might be encountered by transport systems in future.
“The concept of the Second Challenge indicates the importance we attach to engaging the public in planning transport infrastructure such that it becomes compatible with the needs and expectations of public and shared transport. This approach keeps pace with the directives of our leaders to develop transit systems that respond to challenges and achieves RTA’s vision as The world leader in seamless & sustainable mobility,” concluded Al Mudharreb.