Abra (boat)

An abra on Dubai Creek

An abra plying the waters on Dubai creek

An abra (Arabic: عبرة abra) is a traditional boat made of wood.

Abras are used to ferry people across the Dubai Creek in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. They travel between the water station at Shindagha/Al Ghubaiba on the Bur Dubai side, and the water station at Al Sabkha on the Deira side. The abras depart every few minutes. The fare is 1 dirham, which is paid to the ferry driver.[1]

History

Abras were the oldest form of the public transport system in Dubai. They enabled the movement of men and materials between the two shores of the creek called Deira and Bur Dubai. These are still used as water taxis run by the government of Dubai. They also serve the purpose of a tourist attraction.[2]

3D printed abras came into operation in July 2024.[3]

Cultural Significance

The abra is more than just a means of transportation; it is a vital link to Dubai's maritime past and has played a significant role in the city's cultural heritage. Historically, Dubai Creek served as the main artery for trade and commerce, connecting the city to the broader Arabian Peninsula and beyond. Abras, along with the larger dhows, ferried spices, textiles, and pearls, contributing to the growth of Dubai's early economy and facilitating trade with regions as far as Persia and India.[4]

See also

• Water taxi

References

1. Stephen Wilkins (2006). Dubai Creek. Troubador Publishing Ltd, 2006. ISBN 1-905237-47-2.
2. Khan, Ishrat (10 November 2019). "Abra - Water Taxi Dubai - The Traditional Boats of Dubai". Al Wasl Dhow. Retrieved 11 February 2024.
3. Kajal, Kapil. "Electric abra: World's 1st 3D-printed wooden boat sets sail in Dubai". Interesting Engineering.
4. Lucy, Taylor (24 February 2022). "Dubai's Maritime History: A Journey Across Dubai Creek". BBC Travel. Retrieved 27 September 2024.