Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has awarded a number of contracts in a three-year plan to improve 22 bus stations and depots (16 bus stations and six bus depots).
The scope of the project covers the implementation of infrastructural works on the buildings, providing complete passenger facilities, passenger waiting terminals, driver service offices, overnight bus parking, workshops engine maintenance, and dedicated bus inspections and maintenance bays. The overall goal is to introduce a new holistic service experience that will significantly improve the quality of public transport services.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, stated: “The construction of public bus stations and depots forms a key part of RTA’s strategy to strengthen public transport infrastructure. The aim is to encourage the community to opt for public transport in their daily movements. The project goes beyond the traditional function of the stations, aiming not only to facilitate the mobility of passengers, but to enhance the experience of general travel. This includes offering comprehensive services that contribute to the happiness of passengers, improving accessibility for people of determination, providing bicycles, and ensuring perfect connectivity with the Dubai Metro and taxi services” .
Reinforced stations
The project covers the enhancement of 16 stations designated for public bus passengers including nine stations in Deira and seven in Bur Dubai. The stations that will be enhanced include Mall of the Emirates, Sabkha, Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Ibn Battuta, Hatta, Gold Souk, Al Qusais, Deira City Center, Al Ghubaiba, Union, Al Satwa, Al Rashdiya, Abu Hail, Etisalat. , and Al Karama. Bus passenger terminals will be renovated along with building facades, system infrastructure works will be implemented and prayer rooms will be added at selected stations.
Al Satwa station is one of the bus stations that will be strengthened.
Image Credit: Provided
The project also includes the development of six bus depots in Al Khawaneej, Al Qusais, Al Ruwyyah, Al Aweer, Jebel Ali and Al Quoz. These will see the revamping of the inspection courses, the provision of engine washing courses, the improvements of the drainage system, the maintenance of the floor, and the installation of a new system infrastructure and the rehabilitation of public facilities . In addition to providing residential quarters for drivers in Jebel Ali and Al Quoz Depots, the scope of external works at all stations covers the installation of traffic signals and sidewalks, renovation of external lights, infrastructure work for the security systems, redesigning bus parking at five stations, and adding the initial testing area at Al Khawaneej, Al Ruwyyah and Al Aweer depots.
Modern stations
In 2021, RTA completed the construction of several public bus stations in key areas in Dubai, including Al Ghubaiba, Union, Al Jaffiliya, Oud Metha, Al Satwa, Etisalat, Al Baraha, International City and Dubai International Airport (Terminal 3). These stations have been designed with an emphasis on the integration of transport requirements and standards to enhance the connectivity of the city.
The goal was to facilitate safe and smooth access for residents from mass transit stations, ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists can easily access these facilities. In addition, these improvements are aimed at establishing a welcoming and accessible environment for people of determination, linking different modes of transport and development projects, and the surrounding attractions through the development of the needs of the first and last kilometer. By offering elements such as public bus parking, bike lanes, crosswalks, beautiful landscaping and bike racks, RTA seeks to encourage walking and the use of individual mobility options.
Modern nozzles
RTA has an advanced fleet of public buses, distinguished by their standards of safety, comfort and exceptional quality. These buses adhere to European “Euro 6” regulations for reduced carbon emissions, setting a precedent in the Middle East and North Africa. They are equipped with comfortable seats and adhere to rigorous safety protocols. The buses have a low entrance feature to facilitate easy access and egress, as well as dedicated spaces for People of Determination, to offer exceptional services to public transport users with their elegant interior designs.
