Dubai is working diligently to upgrade its maritime services and facilities and has therefore developed its comprehensive plan to develop maritime transport, which aims to accommodate 22 million passengers by 2030.

The Dubai Marine Transport Master Plan 2030 aims at massive increases in the number of passengers using maritime transportation, a significant lengthening of sea routes, and additional stations. It includes expanding the maritime transport network by 188% (from 55 km to 158 km), increasing passenger lines by 400% (from seven to 35 lines), and increasing the number of maritime transport users by 51% (from 14.7 million to 22.2 million) in addition to enhancing the maritime transport fleet by 32% (from 196 to 258 ships).

The plan also notes increasing the number of marine transport stations from 48 to 79 stations along Dubai Creek, the Dubai Water Canal, the Arabian Gulf coast, and various waterfront projects.

At the same time, the city will introduce autonomous electric abras (traditional ferry-like boats), and will be the first in the world to manufacture an electric ferry using 3D printing technology. These boats will be able to carry 20 passengers and their innovative design will emulate modernity and heritage at the same time. Producing it using 3D printing  will reduce manufacturing time by 90% and the cost by 30%.

So far, the ferry has passed Level 4 of the International Driving Automation Index out of six possible levels. The experiments included operating it completely autonomously, without the need for a pilot, between Al Jaddaf Station and Dubai Festival City Marine Transport Station, while adhering to the line with 100% accuracy. The abra is expected to successfully complete the fifth level of the index by 2024.

Dubai continues to amaze the world, and today it can be proud of its readiness to keep pace with the development of the global maritime transport sector, and its leadership in many related areas.