Dubai’s RTA (Roads & Transport Authority) has reportedly unveiled a new generation of bus shelters at 4 hotspots across the city. The bus shelters have an innovative design approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the VP, PM, and Ruler of Dubai. It is the 1st batch under the city’s plan to construct 1,550 shelters, which are expected to be completed over the next 3 to 4 years.
According to Mattar Al Tayer, RTA’s Director-General & Board Chairman of Executive Directors, the shelter project has been taken up in collaboration with the private sector via the BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) Model. Under a contract for 12 years, the investor will fund the operation and construction of these bus shelters. They will share the proceeds of the advertisements with the Road and Transport Authority.
Mr. Al Tayer added that the new project delivers a long-term investment opportunity to the private sector as well as offers an opportunity to develop innovative and smart services for the users. It also diversifies the RTA’s revenues and acts as the key objective of the PPP (Public-Private Partnership). The authority has received 6 proposals from the international and local investors, with 4 firms getting qualified in the financial and technical assessment round.
He further stated that the recent initiative is consistent with the vision of the city’s leaders who believe the implementation of the PPP model to be the primary means for driving the growth and development of Dubai. The project will cater to highly populated areas’ needs as well as serve the future and current demands for public bus services.
In addition, the new project is a part of the ongoing efforts of the authority to enhance the public transport sector and establish an integrated and robust infrastructure. The design of the shelters is compliant with the Dubai Universal Design Code for People of Determination. For instance, they have provided a space for wheelchairs and tracks for visually impaired people.
