**DRT Combines Private Transport Convenience with Public Transport Affordability**
Asia Mobiliti, Malaysia’s leading Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) technology company, in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), has announced the upcoming launch of Oman’s first Demand-Responsive Transit (DRT) service in Muscat.
The announcement was made during the Gulf Green Mobility Forum held earlier this month in Salalah—a regional gathering of transport ministers from across the GCC and beyond. The forum showcased major initiatives shaping the future of sustainable mobility.
### Introducing the DRT Pilot Service
The pilot will introduce a community DRT service, a flexible form of public transport that dynamically adjusts routes and schedules based on passenger demand. Utilizing smaller vehicles, this model extends the reach of public transport into neighborhoods not currently served by traditional bus lines. It also minimizes empty runs and significantly reduces operational costs.
For Oman, the significance of this pilot extends beyond the technology itself. DRT offers the convenience of private transport combined with the affordability of public transit. As Asia Mobiliti explains, it presents a scalable solution to improve accessibility, reduce inefficiencies, and build a more inclusive mobility system for all residents.
### Bridging the Gap Between Private and Public Transport
The launch of this pilot marks an important step in Oman’s public transport journey. Demand-Responsive Transit bridges the gap between fixed-route services and private transport by providing a financially sustainable and socially inclusive alternative.
Ramachandran Muniandy, CEO and co-founder of Asia Mobiliti, emphasized the importance of local adaptation:
“We believe technology cannot simply be transplanted from one market to another. For Oman, we are working closely with the ministry and local partners to tailor the service to the culture and needs of its people, crafting a solution that truly belongs here.”
### Government Perspective and Future Outlook
Eng. Abdullah Al-Busaidi, Director General of the Oman Logistics Centre at MTCIT, highlighted the pilot’s significance:
“This pilot marks an important milestone in Oman’s journey towards sustainable mobility. Demand-Responsive Transit provides a practical solution to improve accessibility while reducing inefficiencies in the transport system.”
He added that starting with community DRT allows Oman to test an approach that can reach underserved areas, optimize resources, and advance national net-zero objectives. The pilot also sets an excellent foundation for electrification, where flexible operations and intelligent routing can maximize the benefits of zero-emission fleets, supporting Oman’s broader logistics innovation agenda.
### Towards an Integrated MaaS Ecosystem
The DRT pilot represents a strategic step towards building a fully integrated Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) system in Oman. By first addressing gaps in today’s transport network and encouraging a shift towards shared, sustainable travel, DRT lays the groundwork for fostering a stronger culture of public transport adoption.
Moving forward, this initiative paves the way for a MaaS ecosystem that seamlessly connects different modes of travel, ensures interoperability across services, and delivers a truly integrated mobility experience for all residents of Oman.
https://www.digitalnewsasia.com/startups/asia-mobiliti-launch-demand-responsive-transit-service-muscat-collaboration-omans-ministry