Abras popular with Dubai residents and tourists

Dubai - Water buses came second

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) revealed on Friday that the total number of marine transit modes in Dubai clocked 6,638,468 riders during the first half of this year and abras accounted for the biggest share of commuters lifting as much as 6,251,358 riders.
"The attractiveness of abras underscores their nature as true historical marine transit modes involving a unique blend of the past and the future," said Abdullah Yousef Al Ali, CEO of RTA's Public Transport Agency.
"Lifting 6,638,468 riders in six months by marine transit means is indicative of the public keenness to use these transit modes which offer users enjoyable and convenient rides. Abras of all types, traditional, electrical or air-conditioned, have accounted for the lion-share of ridership by lifting as much as 6,251,358 riders in the first six months of this year," he added.
Water bus came second, lifting 243,020 riders; followed by ferry, which lifted 127,385 riders, ahead of water taxi which served 16,705 riders.
The RTA said that it always "seeks to provide convenient services to marine transit users and tailor them to their needs expectations of customers, be it mobility or tourist purposes."
"Dubai coast offers a hospitable environment for marine transit mode riders spanning various community segments, especially tourists. These transit means offer riders picturesque and panoramic view of Dubai beaches and skyline comprising historical buildings, luxury hotels, and imposing iconic landmarks at the backdrop of sea waves, in addition to the latest addition the Dubai Water Canal," Al Ali noted.
- angel@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai