A new generation of traditional Abras has been launched, replicating the same design of the existing Abras, while conforming to the highest security, safety and environmental standards.
These Abras were launched by His Excellency Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
These new Abras are based on the existing Abras, but with a new touch.
They are made from African teak wood and measure 35 feet in length, 10.5 feet wide and has a draft of 5.5 feet.
Each Abras can accommodate 20 passengers and is powered by a 78 hp diesel engine. The previous model had a 30 hp diesel engine.
The driver's seat has been changed on the new Abra with a better visibility compared to the low-level location of the driver in the traditional Abras.
The new Abras have smart transportation systems, GPS systems, cameras and NOL payment systems. They are also soundproofed and are not as noisy as the previous Abras.
His Excellency Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer said, “Operating the new Abra is part of a master plan developed by RTA to overhaul Dubai’s marine transport systems which are used by 14 million riders per annum. RTA plans to increase the number of marine transport stations to 59 stations by 2025 and manufacture 26 marine transport modes. It also plans to open new lines on Dubai Creek and the coastal strip along the Jumeirah beaches as well as new lines to serve the new islands and others along the Dubai Water Canal.”