Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with UmbraCity, has launched a pioneering smart umbrella-sharing service aimed at enhancing the convenience and comfort of public transport commuters in the city.
Key Features
Service Location: The service is initially available at the Al Ghubaiba Bus and Metro station, a major hub for public transport in Dubai.
Cost: The smart umbrella service is free of charge for users. Commuters can borrow and return umbrellas at designated kiosks using their Nol cards, the same cards used for public transportation in Dubai.
Duration: The service is being rolled out as a pilot project for three months. During this period, its usage and effectiveness will be monitored to determine future expansions.
Objectives
Urban Walkability: This initiative aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which emphasizes the development of a sustainable, pedestrian-friendly city. The plan aims to create a more walkable urban environment, reducing dependence on cars and enhancing the quality of urban life.
Community Well-being: The project supports the vision of a 20-minute city, where residents can reach essential services and amenities within a 20-minute walk or bike ride. This promotes a healthier lifestyle and greater community connectivity.
Benefits
Environmental Impact: By encouraging more people to use public transport and walk, the smart umbrella service helps reduce the carbon footprint and traffic congestion in the city. It supports Dubai’s broader environmental sustainability goals.
User Convenience: The service provides practical benefits by protecting commuters from the harsh sun and unexpected rain. This ensures a more comfortable journey for public transport users, potentially increasing the attractiveness of public transit options.
Future Plans
Service Expansion: If the pilot phase proves successful, RTA plans to expand the service to more metro and bus stations across Dubai. The long-term goal is to integrate smart services like this into the daily lives of residents, making urban commuting more seamless and enjoyable.
Conclusion
RTA’s smart umbrella initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to urban mobility, aligning with Dubai’s vision of a sustainable and liveable city. By enhancing the commuting experience and promoting walkability, this service is set to make a significant impact on the daily lives of public transport users in Dubai.
