Smart shelters offer array of services for bus riders

Mini mart at a smart bus shelter in Karama.

A smart innovation and initiative by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) brings a big relief to the city's daily commuters by offering them a wide spectrum of services under one roof. The air-conditioned smart shelters offer free Wifi, selling and top-up of Nol cards, top-up of mobile phones for local and international networks, bill payment of public and private entities, recharging mobile phones and a mini mart for selling refreshment and snacks.
"It is for people's convenience and makes their lives much easier. For frequent travellers, these mini marts offer great help by providing water, juices, snacks and other facilities. In a day, at least 20 to 30 people buy things from here," said Chelse, kiosk manager at Karama Centre bus stop.
This unique concept not only upgrades the local public transport but also encourages more and more people to use it. With the objective of transforming Dubai to the smartest city of the world the first smart shelter was inaugurated in Jumeirah earlier this year.
The RTA targets to construct 100 shelters within the city this year and most of them are set up successfully. The locations of these shelters are distributed over 15 districts in Dubai including Shaikh Zayed Road, Al Wasl, Jumeirah, Deira, Umm Al Ramool, Al Quoz, Al Rashidiya, Al Qusais, Al Awir, Al Nahda, Al Satwa, Al Karama, Al Ras, Al Garhoud and Al Jafiliya. Most of them are successfully completed and some are still in progress.
Thumbs up for smart shelter
"I am not a frequent bus rider. But I really appreciate the efforts of the government in promoting the public transport. It is going to help people in a big way in terms of booking airline tickets and paying bills," said Savio, a Dubai resident.
According to Velte, a daily bus rider, mini marts have added joy to the bus rides. "I buy water and juices from here daily."
"I work in the night shifts and because of that I faced difficulties in paying my bills. Now, with the help of the kiosk at the bus stop, I pay all my bills on time. It is very easy and convenient for everyone and saves a lot of time and energy," said Jeril K. J., another Dubai resident.
Becky, a first time user of the smart shelter, found the service an amazing one. "I can transfer money to my parents while commuting from one place to another. I think we should have them at every possible bus stop and public place."
Yvonne said: "I am thankful to the government for such an initiative. Smart shelter is really smart in many ways and a wonderful way to offer number of services at a single store."

• Dubai