Commuters wait under date trees in International City, Dubai on May 19, 2025. EXPAT MEDIA

In the sweltering Dubai summer, commuters in International City have been seen taking shelter under trees as they wait for public buses—highlighting renewed calls for shaded bus stops in the popular residential district. On Monday (May 19), Expat Media visited the area and observed several residents seeking refuge from the sun under the few available trees along the roadside. Others stood directly under the sun, while some came prepared with umbrellas to shield themselves from the intense heat. “International City is one of the earliest communities built in Dubai, but I don’t understand why there’s been no progress on these shaded bus stops,” said long-time resident Siraj P. “I’ve lived here since 2018 and have to commute, and it’s really difficult during the summer.” Despite improvements in the number and frequency of public bus routes, International City still lacks basic shaded structures at its bus stops, leaving commuters exposed to the elements. Currently, none of the bus stops in International City offer any form of shelter—a major concern as the community continues to grow in population. International City is home to thousands of expatriate residents, many of whom rely on public transport for their daily commutes. In 2022, an informal community initiative gained attention when residents placed free umbrellas outside a mosque in the France cluster for others to use while waiting for the bus. The project was a temporary success but ended after most of the umbrellas were not returned. The lack of permanent shaded infrastructure at these bus stops remains a pressing issue, especially during the extreme summer months when daytime temperatures can soar past 45°C. Residents are once again urging authorities to address this gap in public transportation amenities and ensure commuter safety and comfort in one of Dubai’s busiest residential areas. ICA/Expat Media
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