The free boat ride in Sharjah. SHARJAH RTA

Book lovers now have more chances to participate in the Sharjah International Book Fair with authorities offering free boat rides to the venue at Expo Centre Sharjah. Organized by the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the complimentary boat service is a convenient addition for visitors traveling between the two emirates. The book fair, which runs at Expo Centre Sharjah until November 17, has long been a popular event, but this year’s transport initiative has made it even more accessible. The Sharjah RTA announced that a fleet of ten boats would operate daily between the Sharjah Aquarium Station and Expo Centre Sharjah, providing easy and free access for book fair attendees. The boat ride takes 10 minutes.

Dh15 boat ride from Dubai to Sharjah

Those traveling from Dubai can also take a boat ride from Dubai to Sharjah to skip traffic. Dubai’s RTA has coordinated a water transport route, allowing travelers to journey between Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Marine Station and Sharjah Aquarium Station. Dubai’s RTA boats depart from the Sharjah Aquarium Station at 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, and 9pm, with return trips from Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Station scheduled at 3pm, 5pm, 8pm, and 10pm. Additional departure times from Monday to Thursday provide further flexibility, catering to the varied schedules of attendees. The 35-minute trip begins with a boat ride on the Dubai Ferry from Al Ghubaiba Marine Station going to Sharjah Aquarium. One-way fares start at Dh15 on silver class and Dh25 in gold class. The boat ride is free for children under 5 years old and people of determination. These water transport trips will operate from Friday to Sunday, with ferries departing from Sharjah Aquarium at 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, and 9pm, with return trips from Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Station at 3pm, 5pm, 8pm, and 10pm. During weekdays, from Monday to Thursday, ferries will depart from Sharjah Aquarium at 7am, followed by services at 8.30am, 1pm, 4.45pm, and 6.15pm. Return trips from Dubai’s Al Ghubaiba Station are scheduled for 7.45am, 10am, 4pm, 5.30pm, and 7pm. Once in Sharjah, visitors can then avail of the free boat ride that will take them to Expo Centre Sharjah. This initiative emphasizes Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to literacy and community engagement, making it easier for book lovers, families, and students from Dubai to participate in the fair’s events. In previous years, travel between Dubai and Sharjah has been challenging for some, given traffic congestion and limited direct transport options. The boat rides offer a scenic, efficient alternative for visitors, promoting sustainability through shared public transport. The Sharjah International Book Fair has consistently attracted a diverse audience, including renowned authors, publishers, and readers from around the world. In its 43rd year, the fair continues to serve as a regional hub for literary discussions, educational workshops, and book launches. ICA/Expat Media
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