Get a view of Dubai Marina for Dh2

Enjoying the scenic views of Dubai Marina will become a breeze as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced a new water bus service connecting the Marina Walk with Dubai Marina Mall.

Priced at Dh2 per trip, the water bus service will be the first route launched outside the Dubai Creek.

Commuters can get on the water bus from either the Marina Walk or the Marina Mall station, as the route will connect residents and tourists visiting Dubai Marina with the only shopping mall in the area.

Speaking with Khaleej Times, Baha Momhammed Al Qedrah, Director of Marine Transport at the RTA, said, “We will open more stations in the area depending on the demand by Marina residents. It will add to the convenience of residents because they don’t have to use their cars or walk the distance anymore.”

RTA officials enjoy a ride after inaugurating the water bus service in Dubai Marina. – Supplied photo

The Marina route will operate every 15 minutes from 10am to 10pm on weekdays and from 12 noon to 12 midnight on weekends.

“Currently, commuters using the water bus service in Dubai Marina will only be able to pay using cash. We are still in the process of integrating nol cards at the two stations,” added Baha.

The RTA also announced changes to the existing route network in the creek area with all stations located on the Dubai Creek now connected as part of one central route. “Previously, commuters had to switch different water buses to reach different areas. Now we have consolidated our route network into one route which connects all stations in the creek area,” said Baha. In 2011, more than 300,000 commuters used the water bus services. The number is expected to increase by 25 per cent this year as the RTA continues to make public transport more popular in the emirate.

Everyday, a total of 240 trips are undertaken by the water buses in Dubai. The service provides a convenient and safe transit experience across Dubai Creek and Dubai Marina. It is fitted with luxurious seats with ample room, LCD screens and other features that make passengers on board enjoy a unique transit experience.

muaz@khaleejtimes.com