RTA to construct 762 bus shelters in key Dubai areas by 2025
- 24 Dec 2023
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to construct 762 public bus shelters in strategic locations throughout the emirate. These shelters boast a stylish design that harmoniously combines functionality with an aesthetic appeal. By integrating structural elements that enhance the overall architectural design, these shelters embody the refined character of Dubai, presenting it as an epitome of safe and stable urban living.
According to the project plan, all shelters are scheduled for completion by 2025. RTA is exploring the use of 3D printing technology in the construction of some shelters on a trial base in collaboration with a company. Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, said, “The construction of these shelters is part of RTA’s ongoing efforts to improve the public transport services, provide an integrated and reliable infrastructure and bring happiness to all residents of Dubai.
The design of the new shelters is compatible with the Dubai Code for People of Determination, including wheelchair-accessible areas. “The project supports "My Community... A Place for Everyone" Initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council aimed to make Dubai a friendly city for People of Determination.
It also reflects RTA’s endeavour to serve this community segment and make them happier,” he added. "Building these new shelters is one of RTA’s projects that showcases the city’s aesthetic appeal and at the same time pushes towards increasing public transport usage among all community segments. Thus, ultimately contributing to realising RTA’s strategic objective of increasing the proportion of public transport users within the overall mobility journeys in the city.
The locations were selected based on several parameters including high population density areas, the current and future operational needs of public bus services, the integration with individual mobility means, and the adequate infrastructure and space within the right-of-way,” explained Al Tayer. He stated that RTA would continue with its ongoing development projects in Dubai to accommodate the city's urban and demographic growth.
A key focus area would be enhancing mass transportation services to provide safe, smooth, and convenient transit options for both residents and visitors. Four models RTA has categorised the bus shelters into four tiers based on the number of users for each stop. Main Stop: serving over 750 passengers daily. Secondary Stop: accommodating 250 to 750 passengers daily, Primary Stop: used by 100 to 250 passengers daily, and Pick-up/Drop-off Station: used by up to 100 passengers daily.
In Main Stops, a section of the shelter will be air-conditioned. All shelters will feature shaded outdoor area and advertising spaces. Additionally, shelters will be equipped with information screens displaying bus routes, schedules, pick-up times, and other passenger-related information and services of relevance.