Route 8: Al Rolla to Sahara Centre Terminal

Alternative Downtown-to-Shopping Connection

Route 8 provides alternative routing from Al Rolla to Sahara Centre, offering passengers choice regarding routing preference. Operating similar hours to Route 1 (6:10 AM–10:50 PM weekdays), this 25-30 minute journey at AED 8 (AED 6 with Sayer card) complements Route 1 through system redundancy.

Multiple routes (1, 8, 9) serving identical Rolla-Sahara destinations ensure service reliability—if one route experiences disruption, alternatives remain available. System redundancy demonstrates transit maturity prioritizing connectivity assurance over minimum route coverage.

Alternative Routing Through Downtown

Route 8 traverses different intermediate stops than Route 1, potentially serving areas not covered by the primary route. Passengers with specific intermediate stop requirements select Route 8 over Route 1.

The 14-minute frequency (140 headways daily) ensures minimal wait times whether selecting Route 1 or 8. The alternative routing concept reflects modern transit flexibility—serving single origin-destination pair through multiple pathways, enhancing accessibility for varied passenger needs. Morning (6:30–8:30 AM) brings work-focused traffic; afternoon/evening brings leisure shoppers.

System Redundancy for Shopper Accessibility

The existence of Routes 1, 8, and 9 simultaneously serving Rolla-Sahara reflects system commitment to reliability. During peak shopping periods, multiple routes ensure sufficient capacity. If Route 1 experiences mechanical issues, passengers simply board Route 8.

This geographic redundancy validates shopping accessibility as transit priority. Private drivers can select shopping destination, timing, parking; public transit passengers previously faced single-route dependency—now multiple options provide flexibility. Route 8 embodies evolved transit planning. The route validates how redundancy enhances system reliability beyond merely minimum connectivity.

---

Route Information Summary

System Integration

Complementary Routes

• Route 1: Primary Al Rolla to Sahara Centre service
• Route 8: Alternative routing with different intermediate stops
• Route 9: Third simultaneous option for maximum capacity

Benefits of Redundancy

• Reliability: Alternative options during service disruptions
• Capacity: Multiple routes handle peak shopping crowds
• Flexibility: Passengers choose based on intermediate stop needs
• Reduced Wait Times: Combined frequency means more frequent service

Passenger Scenarios

• Shopping Trips: Direct access to Sahara Centre's 530+ retail outlets
• Mall Employment: Workers accessing Sahara Centre jobs
• Intermediate Stops: Passengers requiring specific stops along Route 8's unique path