The autonomous abra. RTA

Sheikh Hamdan Unveils Dubai Marine Transport Master Plan 2030: Abra to Get High-tech Upgrades

Dubai will have the world’s first 3D-printed electric abra, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, announced on Monday (September 11). The innovative marine transport is part of the Dubai Marine Transport Master Plan 2030 that Sheikh Hamdan approved. “I have closely followed the successful trial run of the autonomous abra. It was a pleasure to meet Hanadi Al Doseri, the first Emirati female captain of a mass marine transport vehicle,” Sheikh Hamdan added. In May, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a trial run of the first autonomous electric abra that can carry up to eight passengers. The initial journey of this abra took place from Al Jaddaf Station to the Festival City Station on Dubai Creek. The Crown Prince of Dubai said the master plan will develop Dubai's maritime transport network and expand it by 188 percent with the aim of serving 22 million passengers by 2030. The plan targets a 51 percent increase in the number of marine transport users, from 14.7 million to 22.2 million annually by 2030. Additionally, it outlines a 188 percent increase in the total length of the marine transport network, from 55 km to 158 km. Another key element of the plan will see marine transport stations go up from 48 to 79 stations along the Dubai Creek, and increasing their capacity by 33 percent. The plan includes the development of four traditional abra stations in Dubai Creek, namely Bur Dubai, Deira Old Souk, Dubai Old Souk, and Al Sabkha Stations. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: Dubai unveils new look for abra stations
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