Dubai: These two new bus routes enhance RTA network

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched two new circular public bus routes: DH1, running between Dubai Hills and Equity Metro Station, and DA2, connecting DAMAC Hills and Dubai Studio City.

The development is part of RTA’s broader initiative to enhance the internal bus network and strengthen connections with other public transport modes in the emirate.

Adel Mohammed Shakeri, director of Planning and Business Development at the Public Transport Agency of RTA, emphasised the importance of offering robust public transport services to facilitate movement throughout Dubai.

He highlighted the agency’s commitment to providing convenient, fast, and seamless mobility options that integrate well with developer communities.

New bus routes: Details

Detailing the new routes, Shakeri explained that DH1 operates at one-hour intervals, starting from Dubai Hills at 7:09 am and running until 10:09 pm on weekdays, with extended service until 12:09 am on weekends.

The DA2 route, with a two-hour frequency, begins its first journey from DAMAC Hills at 5:47 am and continues until 9:32 pm daily. Both routes are priced at Dhs5 per journey.

The RTA is dedicated to expanding the public bus network and enhancing its integration with other mass transit systems such as the metro, tram, and marine transport.

The improved connectivity aims to make public transport the preferred choice for commuting in Dubai.

Enhancing public transport

In a related effort to boost public transport, the Executive Council of Dubai approved a comprehensive development plan in June to enhance areas around metro stations. This initiative is designed to enrich economic opportunities, interlink different modes of public transport, and improve the efficiency and convenience of sustainable transportation.

The development plan includes incentives for developers to utilise plots around metro stations, supporting the ’20-minute city’ concept. This aims to increase the number of metro users, boost sustainability, and improve the quality of life in Dubai.

Key goals include increasing the share of public transport to 45 per cent, reducing carbon emissions to 16 tonnes per capita, and enhancing public spaces to encourage walking and increase shaded areas.

The plan will see the expansion of the metro station area development from the current 64 stations over 84 square kilometres to 96 stations over 140 square kilometres by 2030, and eventually to 140 stations over 228 square kilometres by 2040.

This ambitious expansion aims to attract more users and increase economic activity around Metro stations, fostering a diverse mix of residential, commercial, office, and service spaces.