Highlights
- Sheikh Hamdan approves a plan to expand Dubai maritime network by 188% by 2030.
- Introduction of the world’s first 3D-printed electric abra, combining tradition and modern technology for cost and time savings.
- Targeting 22.2 million passengers by 2030, a 51% increase from the current 14.7 million.
- Dubai’s marine transport network to extend from 55km to 158km, with stations increasing from 48 to 79.
- Expansion of the marine transport fleet by 32%, from 196 to 258 vessels.
- Meeting Hanadi Al Doseri, the first Emirati female captain of a mass marine transport vehicle, highlighting gender equality in the UAE.
- Successful trial of an autonomous electric abra, emphasizing sustainability, reduced costs, and zero carbon emissions.
- The Al Garhoud RTA Marine Maintenance Centre, the region’s largest, maintains efficiency and reduces maintenance costs by 50%.
- Demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to setting global standards in urban development and sustainable transportation infrastructure.
Dubai Maritime Network
Dubai maritime network in a visionary move, the Dubai Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has given his approval for an ambitious plan, aiming to expand it by a staggering 188% by the year 2030. The goal is to accommodate a remarkable 22 million passengers within this timeframe.
Dubbed the “Dubai Marine Transport Master Plan 2030,” this initiative is set to bring about a 400% increase in passenger lines, and it introduces a groundbreaking addition to the traditional marine fleet – the world’s first 3D-printed electric abra. This traditional wooden boat, designed to carry 20 passengers, merges the charm of tradition with the efficiency of modern technology, reducing manufacturing time by 90% and costs by 30%.
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During his visit to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the ambitious plan, which aims to increase the number of marine transport users by 51%, elevating the count from 14.7 million to an impressive 22.2 million. The plan involves expanding the total length of the marine transport network from 55km to 158km and increasing the number of marine transport stations from 48 to 79. These stations will be strategically located along the Dubai Creek, Dubai Water Canal, the Arabian Gulf coastline, and various waterfronts.
In addition to expanding the network, the plan includes a substantial increase in passenger transport lines, from seven to 35, as well as a 32% expansion of the marine transport fleet, from 196 to 258 vessels.
First Female Emirati Captain
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan had the honor of meeting Hanadi Al Doseri, the first Emirati female captain of a mass marine transport vehicle. Al Doseri shared her inspiring journey of obtaining the necessary qualifications to pilot sub-200 tonne ships on coastal voyages, including five safety training certificates compliant with international standards.
She also completed three months of maritime service and received two specialized training certificates. Al Doseri is now licensed to pilot marine craft in the 12- and 24-meter categories and is currently undergoing a comprehensive five-month training program aboard the Dubai Ferry, with the goal of securing a license for piloting sub-200-tonne ships on coastal journeys.
Autonomous Abra
Sheikh Hamdan expressed his interest in the RTA’s trial of an autonomous abra, which successfully operated without a captain between Al Jaddaf and Dubai Festival City earlier this year. The autonomous electric abra was designed to retain the traditional abra’s identity while incorporating advanced features such as zero carbon emissions, reduced operating and maintenance costs, and noise elimination compared to diesel-powered abra.
Equipped with two electric motors, it is capable of reaching a maximum speed of seven knots and operates with an autonomous control system powered by four lithium batteries, ensuring a seven-hour operating time.
Maintenance Centre
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed the impressive Al Garhoud RTA Marine Maintenance Centre, the largest marine maintenance facility in the region, spanning 5,000 square meters. This state-of-the-art facility features five workshops, a 250-meter pier, a dock capable of accommodating boats up to 32 meters in length, and a boat crane with a lifting capacity of up to 100 tonnes.
The center has significantly contributed to the efficiency of RTA marine transport craft since its inauguration in 2018, reducing maintenance costs by approximately 50%.
This ambitious plan promises to transform Dubai’s maritime transport network, providing residents and visitors with an enhanced and efficient water-based transportation system. With groundbreaking innovations and a focus on sustainability, Dubai continues to set new standards in urban development and transportation infrastructure.
