Autonomous electric abra sets sail in trial to support Dubai transport goals

The first autonomous electric wooden abra in Dubai has set sail to support efforts to cut carbon emissions and boost the emirate’s ambitions for self-driving transport.

The vessel travelled from Al Jaddaf Station to the Festival City Station on Dubai Creek as part of a trial run, state news agency Wam reported.

The abra, which can carry eight passengers, was made at the Roads and Transport Authority’s Al Garhoud Marine Maintenance Centre.

Its design preserves the traditional look of the emirate’s dhows, while embracing plans to modernise public transport.

Mattar Al Tayer, director general of the authority, said the move was in line with Dubai’s plans to ensure 25 per cent of all journeys are made using autonomous transport by the end of the decade.

“It also contributes to the realisation of Dubai’s masterplan to curb carbon emissions of public transport means as per the requirements of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy,” Mr Al Tayer said.

“The autonomous electric abra boasts superb features highlighted by zero-carbon emissions, lower operating and maintenance costs by 30 per cent, and the elimination of noise compared to diesel-powered models.

“It is equipped with two electric motors with a maximum speed of seven knots [13kph].

“RTA adopted new technologies in designing the structure of the autonomous electric abra and used fibreglass in the hull to reduce the weight.”

The vessel can detect obstacles and notifies the control centre of any system issues.

Mr Al Tayer said the authority developed a plan to improve marine transport “which is vital for the smooth mobility in the emirate”.