Are you seeking a distinctive way to experience Dubai? Embark on a journey aboard a traditional abra as you glide across Dubai Creek! The Deira Old Souq station has recently been reopened, providing a convenient and cost-effective means of transportation between Deira and Bur Dubai.
Did you know that more than 17 million passengers utilize water transport in Dubai each year? If you have yet to experience this mode of transportation, the reopening of the new station presents an ideal opportunity to explore the public water transport options available in the city. Additionally, the route is near popular traditional markets, adding to the allure of the experience.
Where is the Deira Old Souq station?
The Deira Old Souq Marine Station, also known as the Deira Old Souq Water Taxi Station, is situated in the Al Ras area of Deira. This station serves as a hub for traditional abras that transport passengers across the creek to the Bur Dubai side.
- CR1 route – to Bur Dubai Marine Transport Station
- CR5 route – to Al Fahidi Marine Transport Station
The station has recently undergone improvement works, with a specific focus on preserving the cultural identity of the area. The entire souk area has been transformed into a tourist corridor, with Dubai Municipality giving the locality a much-needed ‘facelift’.
What is an abra?
The abra is a traditional boat that operates along Dubai Creek, with the word “abra” meaning “to cross” in Arabic. These boats run every few minutes throughout the day, shuttling passengers between four stations.
Each abra can accommodate approximately 20 passengers, and there are a total of 150 boats operating on the two routes between Deira and Bur Dubai. The service starts around 6 am daily, providing quick and efficient transportation for commuters and tourists alike. Despite now being motorized, each crossing on the abra only takes about five minutes, making it a convenient and popular mode of transportation in Dubai.
How can one get a ticket?
To access the creek crossing, passengers have the option to pay using their Nol card or purchase a ticket at the ticket counter.
The fare for a one-way journey across the creek on a traditional abra is Dh1 per person. Alternatively, passengers can choose the air-conditioned option for Dh2.
How to get to the abra station
The closest Metro station is Al Ras station, located on the Green Line.
Also Read: For under Dh2, you can explore Dubai Creek on an abra