DUBAI - The Dubai Metro is not only about putting in place an integrated transport network for Dubai. While, the rail line will no doubt enhance connectivity and ease pressure on the roads, it has far-reaching benefits for the economy.

The Metro is poised to open a
new chapter of opportunities for
small businesses.

Apart from the retail and F&B outlets at the stations, all metro stops
are expected to gain momentum as "growth clusters."

Several entrepreneurs have taken the lead by opening shops strategically located near metro stations. Anything from coffee shops to audiovisual stores and tourist kiosks are being planned.

From a social perspective, the metro will once again highlight the multicultural and cosmopolitan character of Dubai, as residents of all nationalities will travel together.

As adages go, Dubai Metro's contribution could be that "those who travel together, stay together."

Nine out of ten shop spaces at Dubai Metro stations have already been filled, but residents are keen to have their say in what will fill the remaining space.

Areas around metro platforms, such as walkways and bridges, will be rented to retailers to cater to a deluge of commuters using the new system.

There will be seven new retailers, including Home Sweet Home, Borders Express and Nokia in the metro link connecting with Mall of the Emirates, said Fuad Sharaf, Vice-President, Mall of the Emirates.

"We've included some express store formats to cater to the last minute needs of customers getting on to the metro," said Sharaf.

The new stores will complement both the existing retail offering and the metro link as it features other ATM machines, a separate customer service desk and bathrooms, Sharaf said.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have successfully tendered 92 per cent of the retail outlets and ATM sites in Dubai Metro’s Red and Green Line stations.

"The success of the tender exercise for the retail station outlets of the Dubai Metro already shows the success of the project," said Abdul Mohsen Ibrahim, CEO of RTA Strategy and Corporate Governance in a statement.

"It reflects the public's confidence in the metro and the positive impact that it will create in their daily lives."

However, as to what shops will occupy the remaining 8 per cent of available space, residents came out in favour of outlets tailored to the breakfast habit.

"I would definitely like to see a coffee shop," said Tariq Zaki, an HR professional. "A mini-mart to get something to drink or to buy a newspaper would also be nice."

Others also had some more creative ideas about how they could spend their time waiting for a train.

Faisal Pawaskar, a marketing professional, suggested opening of electronic appliances stores that have simple but important gadgets.

"An electronic store in case you lose your computer charger or a USB... the small stuff, nothing big,"said Pawaskar.

He also suggested eateries and
book shops.

"I would like to have my bank's ATM so I'm not overcharged by other banks," said Rachel Doosti, another HR professional. She also prefers a gift shop and coffee shops. "Coffee shops are very important when you go to work in the morning. Many need their coffee fix and nothing like a good, hot cup of coffee."

Waleed Akl, a student, wanted a clothes shop and a magazine stand. Others were looking toward distractions from the monotony of the morning commute.