Bus operator plans to cut rates to Oman

Travellers seeking inexpensive transport to Yemen or Oman can now use a bus service from Sharjah to Hadramooth, Salalah or Muscat.

This follows a joint venture between Sharjah-based Safeenat Al Sahra Passenger Land Transport, Oman National Transport Co and Bin Hamoudish Transport of Yemen.

The move is an attempt to improve overland transport services between the UAE and Yemen via Oman, said Kamel Hassan Mohammed, Director, Safeenat Al Sahra.

"We are the first to operate bus services to Hadramooth from Sharjah via Oman, which is the shortest route from Sharjah," he claimed. The 36-hour journey has a one-way fare of Dh330, while a return costs Dh500. Frequency is currently twice a monthly, on the 1st and 15th.

The company also claims to have been the first to launch bus services from Sharjah to Muscat and Salalah in Oman.

"We have been receiving a good number of passengers since the launch this August, and intend to increase the frequency and number of buses on this route in future."

He added the frequency would be stepped up to thrice a month during Eid and public holidays and, further, to weekly trips eventually, subject to market demand.

The company has a fleet of eight buses in the UAE. The number of buses can be increased according to demand, Mohammed added.

He said with most passengers being GCC nationals, visa arrangement for passengers is not a big issue. Special groups such as tourist and school groups, however, need prior arrangement with the authorities, including visas.

As part of a special promotion linked to Muscat Festival 2003, the company proposes to slash the regular bus fare from Sharjah to Muscat and Salalah by 50 per cent, he added.

"From January 5 to February 15, a one-way ticket to Muscat will be Dh28.50, and Dh57 for a return, while corresponding fares for Salalah will be Dh57 and Dh100," he said. Rates will revert to normal from February 16.