DUBAI, April 12, 2026 – Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the completion of a massive infrastructure project involving the installation of 726 modern bus shelters. Distributed across strategic areas of the emirate, these new facilities are designed to enhance the public transport experience for more than 192 million riders annually, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to sustainable and efficient urban mobility.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, highlighted that the project represents a strategic dimension in the development of the city’s transport network. By improving service quality and passenger comfort, the RTA aims to establish public transport as the preferred mode of mobility for residents and visitors alike, ultimately supporting Dubai’s goal of becoming the world’s best city to live in.
A People-Centric Approach to Infrastructure
The project focuses on building an integrated, people-centric urban environment. According to Al Tayer, the development of mobility infrastructure extends beyond simple operations; it is about enhancing the entire user journey. The modern, attractive designs of the new shelters are paired with integrated services to boost public confidence in the transport system while simultaneously supporting sustainability targets and reducing carbon emissions.
To maximize operational efficiency, the locations for these shelters were meticulously selected based on high-density requirements and future operational needs. Some shelters are linked to more than 10 different bus routes, a move that significantly improves network flexibility, reduces travel times, and boosts overall ridership.
Categorized for Excellence: Seven Distinct Models
To cater to varying demand levels across the emirate, the RTA has categorized the bus shelters into seven distinct models. This classification ensures that infrastructure meets the specific needs of each location:
- Main Stop: Serving more than 750 riders per day.
- Secondary Stop: Accommodating between 250 and 750 riders per day.
- Standard Stop: Serving between 100 and 250 riders per day.
- Pick-up and Drop-off Stop: Serving fewer than 100 riders per day.
At the high-traffic “Main Stops,” the RTA has designated specific areas as air-conditioned to provide respite from the heat, complemented by shaded outdoor seating and advertising spaces. All shelters are equipped with digital information displays providing real-time bus network maps, timetables, and service frequencies.
Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusivity
In alignment with the Dubai Universal Design Code, the new shelters are fully accessible to People of Determination. The design includes dedicated spaces for wheelchair users, supporting the “My Community… A City for Everyone” initiative. This ensures that Dubai’s public transport infrastructure remains inclusive and accessible to all segments of society.
By integrating individual mobility modes and providing world-class amenities, the RTA continues to lead the way in transforming Dubai into a global model for smart, sustainable, and inclusive urban transport.
