Abras, the ancient mode of public transportation in Dubai, are traditional wooden water taxis traverse Dubai Creek, linking the Bur Dubai and Deira districts. These historic vessels facilitated the transportation of people and goods between the Deira and Bur Dubai shores. Surprisingly, the Dubai government continues to run these iconic water taxis, which are popular tourist attractions. In this article, we’ll go over Abra water taxis, from their beginnings to their current functions and attractiveness to residents and tourists.
History of Abras
‘Abra’ comes from ‘Abara’ in Arabic, which means ‘to cross.’ Abras are Dubai’s oldest way of getting around, especially when the city revolves around creeks. The creek’s true history started only a few centuries ago. Before the 1950s, Dubai’s population was about 50,000. They were used to move people and stuff from one spot to another. Traders and merchants near the souk found Abras handy for moving goods around the UAE and they used them in their daily routine.
Features of Abras Water Taxis
The Abra is a famous water taxi in Dubai, often compared to a gondola in Venice. It can carry up to 20 passengers and might look shaky, but locals and tourists enjoy riding it without issues. Moreover, all Abras in Dubai have had safety measures like life jackets, rescue buoys, and first-aid kits since 2008.
Places to Enjoy Abra Rides
Here are some places where you can enjoy Abra rides:
- Water Taxi Stations in the creek
- Deira
- Baniyas
- Gold Souq
- Bur Dubai
- Al Seef
- Al Fahidi
- Al Ghubaiba
- Other Places
- Dubai Festival City
- Al Jaddaf
- Burj Lake
- Global Village
- Dubai Water Canal
- Madinat Jumeirah lake
Different Types of Modern Abras
Today, you’ll find various types of Abras. Originally rowed by men, traditional Abras have given way to modern versions.
- Motorized Abras
- Air-conditioned Abras
- Petrol Abras
- Electric Abras
1- Motorized Abras
Diesel-powered motorized Abras are a popular and affordable means of transportation between Bur Dubai and Deira stations. These Dubai Abras are a hybrid of boat and raft, resembling tradition but faster in speed.
2- Air-Conditioned Abras
These Abras are great for Dubai’s’s summers. They have glass windows, comfy seating, and run between Festival City and Creek Metro Station. These abra are covered with air-conditioning facilities.
3- Petrol Abras
There are two types of petrol Abras. The ones you will find in the creek are passenger Abras servicing either side like a traditional Abra. The second one is the tourist Abra operating in the Dubai Water Canal, which takes you around the canal for sightseeing trips and back to the starting point, much like dhows. Abras in Dubai run on petrol, the birthplace of the fuel.
Petrol boat stations
- Al Sabkha – Al Fahidi Deira (CR5)
- Dubai Old Souk – Baniyas (CR3)
- Al Seef – Baniyas
4- Electric Abras
Exclusive electric Abras operate at Burj Khalifa Lake, Global Village Lake, Madinat Jumeirah, and Al Seef. Board them at three stations near Burj Khalifa, the Palace Hotel, or Burj Plaza. These Abras look like regular motorized ones.
Fare Per Person
| Abras Type | Fare Per Person |
|---|---|
| Motorized Abra | AED 1 |
| Air Conditioned Abra | AED 2 |
| Petrol Abras | AED 1 |
| Electrical Abras | AED 68.25 |
Must-Visit Spots near Abras, Dubai
Dubai isn’t just about its modern marvels like skyscrapers and luxury hotels. It’s also a place of rich tradition and history. Explore the enchanting old Dubai, where the Dubai Creek meets the Arabian Gulf.
Here are some iconic spots:
- Al Shindaga
- Al Ras
- Al Dhagaya
- Dubai Gold Souk
- Dubai Spice Souk
- Grand Souk Deira
- Grand Souk Bur Dubai
From these souks/souqs (traditional Arabian shops and markets) one can buy gold, spices, clothing, and even electronics.
Documentation Requirement
Documentation is necessary when using the Electrical Abra for transportation. You must possess a valid abra ticket to board and travel. For Petrol-powered and Air-conditioned Abras, you’ll need specific Nol cards, such as the blue, green, and red cards, to gain access and use them for your journey.
Pros and Cons Of Abra Rides
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers picturesque views of Dubai’s landmarks. | May not cover all areas or routes. |
| Cost-effective transportation option. | crowds during rush hours. |
| Connects with Dubai’s heritage. | May require standing. |
| Regular schedules for ease of use. | |
| Reduced waiting times. |
