Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, has given the green light to a substantial overhaul of the city’s marine transport system. The ambitious plan aims to expand services and introduce new vessels, with the goal of accommodating over 22 million passengers annually by 2030, a significant increase from the current 14 million. The project, led by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), includes expanding the maritime network by 188%, adding 31 more stations, and increasing the fleet to 258 vessels.

A standout feature of this transformation is the development of the world’s first 3D-printed electric abra, set to revolutionize water transport. This innovative approach promises to reduce manufacturing time by 90% and cut costs by 30%. Moreover, the RTA is experimenting with self-navigating electric abras to enhance efficiency and reduce noise pollution, aligning with Dubai’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies in its transportation sector. These developments are expected to reshape Dubai’s marine transport landscape over the next decade, providing commuters with a more efficient and sustainable means of travel.