Deira Old Souq Marine Transport Station / Gulf News
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the opening of Deira Old Souq Marine Transport Station, providing enhanced connectivity to the Old Baladiya Road and Gold Souq areas while linking Al Fahidi and Bur Dubai Stations.
The project is part of RTA’s comprehensive plan to upgrade marine transport services and facilities in Dubai, reflecting the city’s growth trajectory across various sectors, including tourism. Marine transport serves as a crucial transit mode in Dubai, catering to over 17 million passengers annually.
Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA’s Public Transport Agency, highlighted the station's improvements. He said “The station underwent improvement works likewise the improvements that took place at Bur Dubai model station during the initial phase. The focus was placed on preserving the cultural identity, providing amenities for users, expanding sheltered waiting areas, and creating retail outlets to serve abra riders.”
These enhancements have resulted in a remarkable 27% increase in revenues, attributed to a 15% capacity boost aligning with the requirements of Dubai Code. The station has also achieved a silver category Green Building Certification, with upgrades to lighting and marina infrastructure using sustainable materials.
The opening of the Deira Old Souq Marine Transport Station signifies the RTA’s master plan for marine transport development 2020-2023, aiming to position marine transport as the ideal mobility choice for citizens, residents and tourists.
RTA is now focusing on finalizing the second phase of its project to upgrade two traditional abra stations along Dubai Creek, further enriching the abra rider experience and enhancing the security and safety of marine transport stations.