Dubai Vision for Maritime Transport: Sheikh Hamdan Approves 2030 Plan with 3D-Printed Electric Abras and Emirati Women Success
During his visit to the Roads and Transport Authority, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed approved the comprehensive plan for the development of maritime transport in Dubai until 2030. He met with the first Emirati female sea captain of a collective maritime transportation vessel, praising the excellence of Emirati women in various sectors.
Key Highlights of the Plan:
- Increase the number of maritime transport users from 14.7 million passengers to 22.2 million annually by 2030, representing a 51% increase.
- Extend the length of the maritime transport network by 188%, from 55 kilometers to 158 kilometers.
- Increase the number of marine stations from 48 to 79 stations distributed along Dubai Creek, Dubai Water Canal, and the coastal route along the Arabian Gulf, including waterfront projects.
- Expand the number of passenger transport lines from 7 to 35 maritime lines, a 400% increase.
- Increase the number of maritime transport fleet units from 196 to 258 units, a 32% increase.
- Manufacture the world first 3D-printed electric “Abra” (traditional wooden boat) and achieve advanced results for the experimental operation of a self-driving electric “Abra.”
On September 10th, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, approved the comprehensive plan for developing maritime transport in Dubai until 2030. This plan includes extending the network by 188%, increasing passenger transport lines by 400%, and manufacturing the world first 3D-printed electric “Abra.”
This announcement came during his visit to the Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai, where he was briefed on the comprehensive plan for developing the maritime transport system in the Emirate until 2030. He received a presentation from Mattar Al Tayer, the Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Directors, highlighting the plan key features.
The plan aims to significantly increase the number of maritime transport users, expand the network, and enhance the efficiency of maritime transportation in Dubai. It also includes initiatives such as manufacturing the world first 3D-printed electric “Abra” and improving the performance of maritime transport maintenance workshops.
Furthermore, Sheikh Hamdan was introduced to the initiative to manufacture the world first self-driving electric “Abra” using 3D printing technology, a collaboration between the public and private sectors. This initiative aligns with Dubai 3D printing strategy and aims to reduce manufacturing time by 90% and costs by 30%.
The Crown Prince also inspected the performance results and operational indicators of the Qarhoud Workshop, responsible for maintaining maritime transport vehicles, including abras, ferries, and water taxis. This workshop, which is the largest of its kind in the region, has contributed to improving the operational efficiency of 57 maritime vehicles, lowering maintenance costs by around 50%, and enhancing the safety and readiness of maritime transport.
Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the predictive maintenance system for maritime transport, which includes installing remote monitoring devices on some equipment and sensors on maritime vehicles. This system has achieved a 99% availability rate for maritime vehicles by predicting faults in advance and aiding in precise maintenance planning.
Moreover, the visit included an overview of the operational trial results of the world first self-driving electric “Abra.” During the initial stage, the “Abra” achieved a Level 4 out of 6 in accordance with global standards for autonomous vehicles. The “Abra” was tested on the maritime route between Al Jaddaf Station and Festival City Maritime Transport Station, with a 100% adherence to the predefined path. Work is ongoing to reach Level 5 by 2024.
Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan met with Emirati citizen Hanadi Mohammed Al Doseri, the first female sea captain of a collective maritime transportation vessel for coastal trips carrying less than 200 tons. He expressed his appreciation for the remarkable achievements of Emirati women in various fields and their dedication to excellence in various specialties, wishing Captain Hanadi Al Doseri every success in her professional journey.
Captain Hanadi Al Doseri holds five training certificates related to safety according to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). She also completed three months of maritime service, earned licenses for maritime vessels of 12 and 24 meters, and underwent five months of documented practical training on board Dubai ferries. According to the program, she is expected to obtain a license for driving vessels carrying less than 200 tons for coastal trips and pass the candidate assessment in December.
Sheikh Hamdan visit and the approval of the comprehensive plan demonstrate Dubai commitment to enhancing its maritime transport system, promoting innovation through 3D printing technology, and recognizing the achievements of Emirati women in various professional fields. These efforts are expected to contribute to the growth and sustainability of Dubai’s maritime transport sector while ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
