Abra is a traditional boat made from wood used to transfer people in the Dubai creek. It takes 10 minutes to go from Deira to the other side (Bur Dubai). Abras used to be the main way of transport between the two sides before cars could cross the creek on two bridges or the Shindaga tunnel. Now it is mostly used by tourists or workers with low income although it remains an essential and frequently used part of Dubai transportation. The Abras charge a nominal rate of 50 fils per trip. Currently about 150 Abras operate in the creek on three routes from Bur Dubai to Deira Old Souq, from Bur Dubai Souq to Al Sabkha and from the new Bani Yas station to Al Seef Road temporary station. According to the statistics, more than 1.5 million people use the Abra services every year to commute between the two banks of the Dubai Creek. |