Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched two new Dubai Creek marine transport routes, expanding water-based connectivity from Dubai Creek Harbour to two of the city's most-visited destinations. The new abra lines are part of the RTA's broader Marine Transport Master Plan 2020–2030 and a partnership with Emaar Properties.
Two New Routes from Dubai Creek Harbour
The first route connects Dubai Creek Harbour to Dubai Festival City and operates on weekends — Friday and Saturday evenings from 4:00 PM to 11:55 PM.
The second route links Dubai Creek Harbour to Al Jaddaf Marine Transport Station and Al Khor Metro Station. It runs on weekdays (Monday to Friday) across two windows: 7:30 AM to 10:50 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 10:50 PM.
Both routes are priced at just AED 2 per journey, making them among the most affordable and scenic transit options in the city.
Ridership Has Grown 900% Since Launch
The two lines debuted in August 2022, initially serving around 3,000 passengers per month. Demand has since soared dramatically.
"This number has soared to an average of 30,000 passengers per month in the current year, reflecting a remarkable 900 per cent increase," said Ahmed Bahrozyan, RTA CEO and spokesperson for the Public Transport Agency.
To keep pace with the surge, the RTA has deployed additional ticket vending machines and constructed new quays capable of handling multiple watercraft types.
RTA–Emaar Partnership Drives the Expansion
The marine expansion is the result of a formal collaboration between the RTA and Emaar Properties, aimed at improving public waterfront infrastructure and boosting Dubai Creek Harbour as both a residential and tourist destination.
Ahmed Al Matrooshi, executive board member at Emaar, said the partnership "contributes to achieving visions and goals efficiently, boosting the economy, and fostering wellbeing."
Aligned with the Marine Transport Master Plan 2020–2030
The new Dubai Creek marine transport routes sit within a long-term strategic framework. The RTA's Marine Transport Master Plan 2020–2030 targets sustained growth in waterborne ridership as a means to relieve road congestion and deliver a distinctive, world-class commuter experience in Dubai.
The Creek Harbour expansion is expected to serve the growing residential community at the development while doubling as a leisure transit option for visitors heading to Dubai Festival City's retail and dining precinct.
