New Dubai Metro feeder bus routes for better Al Nahda, JLT access

With the new Salik charge for taxis in Dubai ready to be implemented from Januray 15, a large number of commuters are likely to shift to the Metro.

This has raised the issue of accessibility to Metro stations and the Road and Transport Authority’s (RTA) feeder buses are going to play a key role in making the Metro a viable option.

The RTA is on the ball and the feeder bus system is set to handle any load.

“The Agency has developed a strategy to provide attractive and efficient feeder service to support Dubai Metro Project. Currently there are 23 feeder routes operating in different areas,” the RTA informed this website in an official statement.

“Most recently Route F53 was diverted via Danube Station and Route F22, F40 were introduced in both Al Nahda and Jumeirah Lake Towers.

“The RTA is constantly reviewing the network and customers suggestion to enhance the network by either providing better headways, change the timing and enhancing the coverage,” it added.

Some resident remain sceptical.

A resident of Silicon Oasis complains that feeder buses do not connect his part of the world to the Metro line yet making his commute tougher.

“During peak traffic, it’s impossible to cab it to the station because you not only end up paying a lot, but you also waste time,” says Rishi Singh, a resident who was forced to skip the Metro ride due to this issue.

For those who are exploring the option of driving their own car to the Metro station and then taking the train, parking becomes an issue.

The RTA website lists 8,000 parking slots at three of its major stations - Rashidiya, Nakheel Harbour and Tower and Etisalat station.

Other stations have fewer parking spaces, with mall parking at Deira City Centre, Mall of the Emirates and Burjuman coming at a price.

Some are clocked after the initial four hours and some charge a one-time Dh20 fee.

“The Metro is really convenient and it does save me a lot of time and money. If there’s one thing I’d like to highlight it is the limited parking slots near the station,” claims Al Nahda resident Namita, who starts her Metro journey at the Stadium station on the green line.

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