Watch: Now, driverless abras in Dubai; RTA announces trial of autonomous electric boat

Watch: Now, driverless abras in Dubai; RTA announces trial of autonomous electric boat

The traditional boat — a common sight in the Emirate's waters — can carry eight riders

Photos: Dubai Media Office/Twitter

Published: Sun 14 May 2023, 11:23 AM Last updated: Sun 14 May 2023, 2:19 PM

Dubai has started the trial operation of a driverless electric abra, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Sunday. The traditional boat — a common sight in the Emirate's waters — can carry eight passengers.

The autonomous vessel was manufactured locally at the RTA’s Al Garhoud Marine Maintenance Centre. Its design retains the heritage identity of abras.

The initial journey of the driverless abra took place from Al Jaddaf to the Festival City station on the Dubai Creek. This marks one of the world’s first marine trials in passenger transport.

Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, RTA, said: “The autonomous electric abra boasts superb features highlighted by zero carbon emissions, lower operating and maintenance costs (by up to 30 per cent), and the elimination of noise compared to diesel-powered models.

Pictured: Mattar Al Tayer

"It is equipped with two electric motors with a maximum speed of seven knots. It has an autonomous control system and four lithium batteries that ensure an operating time of seven hours.