How to get free bus rides using plastic bottles in Abu Dhabi

Looking for eco-friendly travel options in Abu Dhabi? Often travel by bus? The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) has launched an initiative that helps passengers get free bus rides when they hand in empty plastic bottles.

Wondering how to get your free bus rides? Bus passengers will gain points each time they deposit empty plastic bottles in a plastics deposit machine. The points will be compiled and added to the Hafilat Personalised Bus Card, which can then be used to pay for bus fares.

The plastics deposit machine will be installed in Abu Dhabi’s main bus station. Each single small bottle (600ml or less) will gain one point, while larger containers or bottles exceeding 600ml will gain two points each. Each point equals ten fils, so ten points equals Dhs1.

You might also like: 33 ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Abu Dhabi

The Hafilat card is an automated payment system that stores cash value in the card via tariff machines installed at bus entrances and exits. The system calculates the fare required for the trip and deducts it from the card as you use the bus. Bus journeys start at Dhs2 and increase the further you travel.

Travelling by bus is already more environmentally friendly than other modes of transport such as taxi or car. The free bus rides for plastic bottles initiative has been launched in cooperation with Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), Abu Dhabi Waste Management Centre “Tadweer” and “DGrade.”

The EAD is working to launch an integrated bottle return scheme in key locations and is encouraging initiatives to collect bottles from homes with incentive rewards.

Dubai recently introduced a plastic bag charge that will launch this summer to encourage less consumption of single use plastics, as well as free water bottle refill stations across the city.

itc.gov.ae.