His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has approved the Dubai Marine Transport Master Plan 2030.
The plan encompasses a 188% expansion of the marine transport network, a 400% increase in passenger lines, and the manufacturing of the world's first electric abra using 3D printing technology.
During his visit to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), His Highness reviewed the master plan for scaling up Dubai’s marine transport system through to 2030.
His Highness was given an overview of key aspects of the plan by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
The plan targets a 51% increase in the number of marine transport users, from 14.7 million to 22.2 million annually by 2030.
Additionally, it outlines a 188% increase in the total length of the marine transport network, from 55 km to 158 km.
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Another key element of the plan will see marine transport stations go up from 48 to 79 stations along the Dubai Creek, Dubai Water Canal, the coastline of the Arabian Gulf and various waterfront projects in accordance with a well-thought-out strategy.
The plan also includes increasing passenger transport lines from seven to 35, marking a 400% surge, besides expanding the marine transport fleet by 32%, from 196 to 258 marine vessels.
3D printed abra
His Highness reviewed RTA’s initiative to manufacture the world's first electric abra using 3D printing technology in partnership with the private sector.
Designed to carry 20 passengers, the 3D-printed boat features a design that melds aesthetics and heritage cues of the original abras. Aligned with the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy, this initiative slashes manufacturing time by 90% and enables 30% cost savings.
Woman captain waiting in the wings
During the visit, His Highness met with Hanadi Mohammed Al Doseri, the first Emirati woman to captain a mass marine transport vessel.
Al Doseri recounted her journey towards securing the qualifications needed to pilot sub-200 tonne ships on coastal voyages.
His Highness expressed his appreciation for the outstanding example set by Emirati women in various fields and their relentless pursuit of excellence. He commended Al Doseri for her accomplishments and wished her continued success in her career.
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