Dubai: Now You Can Enjoy Free Abra Rides To Deira Islands As New Marine Stations Open

A new marine station was built at Deira Islands’ waterfront bazaar, Souk Al Marfa. Free rides have been promised for guests in the first five months as part of a cooperation between Nakheel and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Souk Al Marfa is linked to Dubai’s Old Souq and Deira Old Souq by two picturesque paths. A 25-minute abra ride is available from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays, from 10 AM to 12 PM and from 5 PM to 10 PM on weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). On weekends only, a 20-minute boat ride connects Souk Al Marfa and Al Ghubaiba from 6 PM to 10 PM.

The pathways link Dubai’s oldest and most traditional commerce centre to the city’s most recent island construction. Views from the abra and ferry will include the Deira Corniche, Deira Old Souq, Dubai Creek, and the Gold Souq.

Souk Al Marfa now has around 900 businesses, with another 200 planned to come soon. Carpets, lighting, spices, apparel, gadgets, and real Thai and Persian marketplaces are among the items for sale.

The Deira Islands, which cover 15.3 square kilometres, are made up of four man-made islands. The project, which is located in Dubai’s Deira neighbourhood, has extended Dubai’s coastline by 40 kilometres, including 21 kilometres of beachfront.

Muath Abdelkader AlRais, general manager of Souk Al Marfa, said: “The new abra and ferry service brings a new and memorable way for residents and visitors from further afield to reach our newest retail destination.”

Ahmed Bahrozyan, chief executive officer at Public Transport Agency at RTA, added: “This transportation method is an exciting new way to access Souk Al Marfa in an easy and seamless way.”