Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is introducing VR training for its bus drivers, the first Middle East government entity to do so.
The RTA said VR technology was being integrated to improve driver standards and provide a better customer service.
“RTA will use VR technology in basic and follow-up training courses,” said Abdullah Al Meer, Director of Drivers Affairs at RTA’s Public Transport Agency.
“It will also be part of the rehabilitation process of drivers involved in traffic accidents and responding to customer complaints.
“Public Transport Agency is keen on improving the training environment through using cutting-edge technologies and top global practices in the training of passenger transport drivers.”
Al Meer said drivers would be exposed to different climate and road conditions, giving them greater experience at controlling buses and avoiding accidents. He added that the VR technology meant they could train more drivers at the same time.
More than 350,000 people travel on buses each day, say the RTA. The body has 1,518 buses in its fleet.