Dubai Marine transport Master plan 2030 leads to major updates in marine transport

Among the key aims of Dubai Marine Transport Master Plan 2030 are:

• 51% increase in marine transport users from 14M to 22M
  
• 188% extension of the marine transport network from 55km to 158km
  
• 65% rise in the number of marine stations from 48 to 79
  
• 32% increase in the marine transport fleet from 196 vessels to 258
  
• 400% expansion of marine lines from 7 to 35
  

The RTA has adopted new technologies to make the world's first autonomous electric abra even better. During the initial phase, the electric vessel reached Level 4 of the International Driving Automation Index. The capacity of the abra is 8 passengers. During the trials, the electric abra moved autonomously between Al Jaddaf Station and Dubai Festival City Marine Transport Station with 100% accuracy. It's planned that in 2024 it will feature a new design, as well as a reduced weight thanks to used fibreglass, and plans to achieve Level 5 out of 6 of the Index.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also reviewed the RTA's initiative to create the world's first electric abra with the help of 3D printing technology in partnership with the private sector. It's planned that the vessel will carry 20 passengers and feature a design which goes back to traditional abras.The targeted date for the prototype abra production is February 2024. The creation of the electric abra with the help of 3D printing technology will lead to:

• 90% reduction in manufacturing time
  
• 30% decrease in manufacturing costs of the abra