The multi-phase Careem Bike project will eventually provide 3,500 bicycles across 350 stations in Dubai
The RTA and Careem said the solar-powered stations will allow users to hire and pay via a dedicated Careem Bike App, which customers can use to unlock the bicycle by scanning a QR code on the bicycle and enter a 5-digit code into the application.
Ride-hailing app Careem and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a first-of-its kind bike rental service in the region, with 780 bicycles initially available across 78 stations.
The multi-phase project will eventually provide 3,500 bicycles across 350 stations in Dubai.
In a statement, the RTA and Careem said the solar-powered stations will allow users to hire and pay via a dedicated Careem Bike App, which customers can use to unlock the bicycle by scanning a QR code on the bicycle and enter a 5-digit code into the application.
The service will initially cover areas of the city including Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah Lake Towers, the Greens, Barsha Heights, the Dubai Water Canal, Dubai Media City, Downtown Dubai and Al Qudra, as well as safe roads across Al Karama and Al Mankhool.
According to its 15-year contract with the RTA, Careem will operate 1,750 bikes and install 175 stations in the first two years of the project before increasing them to a total of 3,500 bicycles and 350 stations over the next five years.
“This service contributes to Dubai sustainability efforts and encourages residents and tourists to enjoy an active and healthy life, providing them with a new transportation option that will improve mobility across the city,” said Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the board of executive directors of the RTA.
Regulations governing the use of the bicycles mandate that drivers must keep a safe distance from vehicles and pedestrians, refrain from using two-ear headsets and cycle only with traffic. To use the bicycles, customers must not be under the age of 15, unless accompanied by someone over 18.
In the last several years, the RTA has laid 425 km of bike tracks across the emirate. By 2023, the overall bicycle tracks across Dubai are expected to reach 647 km.
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