Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has relaunched its tourist electric abra service at Al Mamzar Station, giving residents and visitors another scenic way to experience the city's waterfront. The relaunch comes after the service was temporarily suspended for development works in the area, and it's already back in operation for anyone looking for a relaxed, eco-friendly evening on the water.

What the service offers

The Al Mamzar electric abra provides private rides accommodating up to eight passengers, making it well suited for families, small groups, and tourists looking for a unique sightseeing experience. Riders can take in panoramic views of Dubai's skyline, coastline, and the leisure spots that surround Al Mamzar, all from the water rather than the road.

Operating hours and pricing

• Operating hours: Daily, from 4 PM to 11 PM.
• Capacity: Up to 8 passengers per private ride.
• 30-minute ride: Dh60 per trip.
• 60-minute ride: Dh120 per trip.

Why it matters for Dubai's tourism push

The RTA has framed the relaunch as part of its broader effort to enhance Dubai's tourism offerings while promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable transport across the emirate. Running on electric power rather than a traditional engine, the Al Mamzar abra fits into a wider pattern of the city positioning its waterways as low-impact, scenic alternatives to standard road-based tourism experiences.

How it's different from Dubai's other water transport

It's worth distinguishing this service from Dubai's other water transport options, since they're often confused with one another. The Dubai Ferry once operated a route stopping at Al Mamzar, introduced in October 2014, but that terminal was discontinued due to low demand and no longer runs. The city's traditional wooden abras, meanwhile, continue to operate as a low-cost, point-to-point crossing service along Dubai Creek in areas like Deira and Bur Dubai, serving daily commuters rather than tourists. The Al Mamzar electric abra is a distinct, smaller-scale leisure offering, focused entirely on scenic private rides rather than functional transit between fixed points.

Good to know before you go

Since this is a private ride rather than a shared crossing, it's best suited to those wanting a self-contained experience rather than a quick point-to-point trip. Given that operating hours run into the evening, it's also a good option for catching Dubai's skyline lit up after sunset. As with any RTA-run marine service, it's worth checking current conditions before heading out, since sea conditions and ongoing area development work can occasionally affect availability.

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