Abras replace water buses in Dubai Marina

Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has replaced several water buses by air-conditioned abras in Dubai Marina.

The new abras are more convenient to riders and have better operational efficiency, the RTA said on Saturday. They offer riders an enhanced view of the city, and offer the service at the same fare.

“The teams of Marine Transport Department have replaced some water buses by new air-conditioned abras at Dubai Marina. The move is part of [RTA’s] Public Transport Agency’s efforts to improve marine transit means in the emirate, which involves rolling out several initiatives and improvements at site,” said Mansour Rahma Al Falasi (pictured), director of marine transport at the Public Transport Agency.

“Among other initiatives made for improving the marine transport service was the rejuvenation of Al Seef Marine Transport Station, following the redevelopment of the entire neighbourhood by Meraas. Broadening the scope of the marine transport network in the area is expected to attract additional passengers to these modes to commute from Al Seef station to other creek stations as there are plentiful tourist attractions and facilities along the creek.”

He added: “The marine transit modes of the RTA are vital for the integration of public transport systems in Dubai, and form an important component of the infrastructure in the emirate, especially after the opening of the Dubai Water Canal. The canal has brought in a new look to the emirate and added to the strategic importance of marine transport for the public or tourists. It has demonstrated the importance of integrating marine transport with other vital services in the city, which has become a world-class hub for business, investment, tourism, financial, service and other vital sectors.”

The RTA’s marine transit modes include abras of different types, Water Taxi, and Dubai Ferry.