His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has granted approval to the Dubai Marine Transport Master Plan 2030. This comprehensive plan entails a 188% expansion of the marine transport network, a 400% increase in passenger lines, and the creation of the world’s first electric abra utilizing 3D printing technology.
During his visit to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), His Highness was briefed on the master plan for the expansion of Dubai’s marine transport system until 2030. His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), provided His Highness with an overview of the plan’s key components.
The plan aims to increase the number of marine transport users by 51%, from 14.7 million to 22.2 million annually by 2030. Furthermore, it outlines a 188% increase in the total length of the marine transport network, from 55 km to 158 km. Another significant aspect of the plan involves the construction of 79 marine transport stations along the Dubai Creek, Dubai Water Canal, the Arabian Gulf coastline, and various waterfront projects, in accordance with a well-conceived strategy. The plan also includes a 400% increase in passenger transport lines, from seven to 35, as well as a 32% expansion of the marine transport fleet, from 196 to 258 marine vessels.
His Highness also reviewed the RTA’s initiative to collaborate with the private sector in the production of the world’s first electric abra using 3D printing technology. This 3D-printed boat, designed to accommodate 20 passengers, incorporates the aesthetics and heritage cues of the original abras. This initiative aligns with the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy, reducing manufacturing time by 90% and enabling 30% cost savings.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed was also apprised about the trial run of the world’s first autonomous electric abra. In its initial phase, the abra successfully cleared Level 4 of the International Driving Automation Indexout of a possiblesix levels. The trials involved operating the abra entirely autonomously and without the need for a captain between Al Jaddaf Station and Dubai Festival City Marine Transport Station, adhering to the route with 100% accuracy. Efforts are currently underway to successfully complete Level 5 of theIndexby 2024.
“The autonomous electric abra was crafted locally, thanks to the dedication of the RTA team. In its design and production, emphasis was placed on retaining the abra’s heritage identity. The abra boasts a host of advanced features highlighted by zero carbon emissions, operating and maintenance cost savings of 30% and the elimination of noise compared to diesel-powered abras. Equipped with two electric motors, it is capable of achieving a maximum speed of seven knots. It is fitted with an autonomous control system and four lithium batteries that ensure an operating time of seven hours. RTA adopted new technologies to design the structure of the autonomous electric abra and used fibreglass in the hull to reduce its weight,” explained Al Tayer.
During the visit, His Highness met with Hanadi Mohammed Al Doseri, the first Emirati woman to captain a mass marine transport vessel. Al Doserirecounted her journeytowards securing thequalificationsneeded to pilot sub-200 tonne ships on coastal voyages. His Highness expressed his appreciation for the outstanding example set by Emirati women in various fields and their relentless pursuit of excellence. He commended Al Doseri for her accomplishments and wished her continued success in her career.
Al Doseri’s qualifications include five safety training certificates compliant with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).In addition, Al Doseri has successfully completed three months of maritime service and has received two more specialised training certificates. She is also licensed to pilot marine craft in the 12-metre and 24-metre categories. To enhance her practical skills, she underwent a comprehensive five-month training programme aboard the Dubai Ferry.Subject to a successful candidate evaluation in December, Al Doseri is on track to secure a license for piloting sub-200-tonne ships on coastal journeys.