Dubai’s abras just got big upgrade, including Nol card payment!

  DUBAI – The traditional abra boats in Dubai have been given a big upgrade, making them faster, quieter and with technology to allow passengers to pay fares using a Nol card. The wooden abras now have GPS technology, cameras and Nol card payment systems, and better engines to improve speed and lessen noise. The upgraded abras can accommodate 20 passengers and are bigger and sturdier; made of African teak wood and measuring 10.6 metres in length and 3 metres in width wide. The design has also been improved to accommodate people with special needs, with designated spaces for two wheelchairs on board. There are also lifejackets underneath the seats. The driver seat has also been relocated to offer a better view of the passengers. The new abras are now equipped with hydraulic steering for steady navigation. The engines have been upgraded to 78 horse power, instead of 30 horse power, making the vessels much faster, and are housed in a soundproof chamber to reduce noise pollution. Fares remain just Dh1 per trip. According to the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai plans to incrase the number of marine transport stations in the emirate to 59 by 2025. There are plans to open new lines on Dubai Creek, along the Jumeirah beach coast, and Dubai Water Canal. ICA/Expat Media
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