Muscat Municipality launches 'O'Bike' in partnership with Omantel and JCDecaux Oman

A trial bicycle station, similar to the famous Parisian Velib', has been installed on the Matrah Corniche in Muscat, a favourite place for residents and tourists to take a stroll.

From February 16th to May 16th 2013, the public will have the opportunity to ride the bikes free of charge, from 4pm to 8pm, on Matrah Corniche.

By showing their ID cards or passports to the operator, the public can borrow a bicycle and a helmet, which must be returned after use to the O'Bike station. Users will be encouraged to share their feedback with the operators.

This first self-service bicycle system in Oman will allow Muscat Municipality to assess the service and consider a city-wide development of the scheme, which would help promote eco-friendly transport systems and regular physical exercise among the population.

His Excellency Eng. Sultan Hamdoon Al Harthi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality, said, "We are very pleased to offer residents and tourists the first self-service bicycle system in Oman. Muscat is growing and it is our responsibility to ensure a sustainable development of the city. We are looking forward to hearing the public's feedback following this trial period. We hope this self-service bicycle system will be a great success and that we can expand it to the whole city at a rapid pace."

Hamdan Moosa Al Harasi, General Manager of Corporate Affairs Omantel, said, "Omantel has been a leading player in Oman's progress and national development. It is only natural that Omantel decided to sponsor the first self-service bicycle scheme in Oman to support a smart initiative from Muscat Municipality that perfectly fits Omantel's brand values of social responsibility, innovation and mobility, to better serve the community."

David Bourg, Managing Director Middle East of JCDecaux, said, "We are delighted to provide Muscat Municipality and its residents with an innovative and successful service, combining leisure, practicality and respect for the environment. One of our goals, as the number one outdoor advertising company worldwide, is to contribute to the development of innovative services that improve the quality of life in cities. We believe this project will fully benefit the citizens of Muscat."