Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has initiated trials of the world’s inaugural 3D-printed electric abra.
The abra, designed to accommodate 20 passengers, was crafted in collaboration with the private sector to maintain the traditional abra aesthetic.
This endeavour aligns with the government’s push to realise Dubai’s 3D printing strategy.
The introduction of the 3D-printed electric abra in Dubai aims to significantly reduce manufacturing time by 90%, decrease production costs by 30%, and lower operational and maintenance expenses by 30%.
Moreover, it supports RTA’s strategy for environmental sustainability in maritime transport.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, stated: “The trial of the electric abra, produced using 3D printing technology, alongside the enhancement of traditional abra stations, forms part of RTA’s comprehensive plan to enhance marine transport services—a critical mobility mode in Dubai—adding substantial value to the maritime transport sector.”
“The newly manufactured abra boasts several technical features, including the longest monocoque structure created using 3D printing, measuring 11m long and 3.1m wide.”
“It incorporates an electric propulsion system powered by two 10-kilowatt motors and lithium batteries. The abra will operate on a trial basis at the Sheikh Zayed Road Marine Transport Station on the TR6 line.”
“During this phase, the abra’s performance will be monitored and compared with the current fibreglass abras carrying 20 passengers.”
Manufactured by Al Seer Marine Company in Abu Dhabi, the abra was developed in collaboration with global firms such as Mitsubishi of Japan, providing materials for manufacturing and printing, Siemens of Germany, supervising printer programming and calibration, and Torqeedo of Germany, supplying electric motors.
TASNEEF Company oversaw the manufacturing process to ensure compliance with safety standards.
RTA is currently upgrading traditional abra stations along Dubai Creek. The project aims to improve marine transport services, enhance safety and security standards, meet Dubai Universal Design Code requirements for People of Determination, and enhance the overall appearance of traditional abra stations.
These stations serve over 14 million passengers annually.
The project includes enhancing four traditional abra stations. In February 2023, RTA completed improvements at Bur Dubai Marine Transport Station, and in February of last year, Deira Old Souq Station upgrades were finished.
Upgrades to Dubai Old Souq Station and Al Sabkha Station are scheduled for completion by August 2025.
Improvements to marine transport stations involve replacing all floating docks with new ones for passenger safety, adding retail spaces for improved customer service, employee and operator facilities, and bike racks for better transport integration.
The project also entails expanding and enhancing passenger waiting areas with priority seating and dedicated spaces for People of Determination, increasing dock widths by 15%, shaded waiting areas by 100%, commercial spaces by 27%, and compliance with Dubai Code standards by 87%.
Sustainable, cost-effective materials will be used, reducing annual maintenance costs by 10%.
Since the completion of the Dubai Water Canal, linking Dubai Creek to the coastal area, the marine transport sector has witnessed growth in transport modes, stations, and passenger numbers.
