Abu Dhabi launches public water taxi service

Abu Dhabi Maritime, established by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and AD Ports Group as the primary custodian of Abu Dhabi’s waterways, has launched a new public water taxi service within the greater Yas Bay and Raha Beach community.

This is in collaboration with Miral, a real estate development, management and investment company responsible for the development and management of Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

Open seven days a week, the water taxi service will enhance connectivity between a number of Abu Dhabi’s waterfront attractions while offering an alternative transport option for the public.

It will initially operate across Yas Bay, Yas Marina and Al Bandar with further stops to follow.

We are happy to announce the launch of a new Public Water Taxi Service within Yas Bay and Raha Beach – the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi. The service is launched together with #DMT@ADPortsGroup @admaritime @AbuDhabi_ADM @alainmun @DRMunicipality @ITCAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/4CiuF2iErf

— دائرة البلديات والنقل (@AbuDhabiDMT) November 17, 2022

Dr Salem Khalfan Al Kaabi, director-general of Operational Affairs, DMT said: “We are working closely with AD Ports Group as part of our collaboration with Abu Dhabi Maritime to provide advanced services that will boost the emirate’s connectivity making access to high-demand destinations even easier for Abu Dhabi residents and tourists.

The new public water taxi service underscores our efforts and commitment to developing state-of-the-art maritime services needed to support Abu Dhabi’s global position as one of the best destinations to live, work and visit.”

Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, group CEO of Miral, said: “Our partnership with Abu Dhabi Maritime for the launch of the public water taxi service reiterates our commitment towards further positioning Yas Island as a top global destination for entertainment and leisure. With enhanced connectivity, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to navigate, explore and enjoy the island’s world-class offerings and landmarks.

Captain Saif Al Mheiri, managing director of Abu Dhabi Maritime, said: “The launch of public water taxi services within the greater Yas Bay and Raha Beach areas represents a key moment in our long-term strategy to develop a world-class public water transport system in Abu Dhabi that enhances connectivity, promotes tourism and increases the emirate’s reputation as a leading maritime destination.”

While supporting a sustainable public transport offering, the service will provide a scenic connection with the Al Raha community and will allow tourists to discover Yas Island’s increasingly popular waterfront attractions including the F1 2022 season finale at the Yas Marina Circuit. Supporting the event for the first time, Abu Dhabi Maritime through the public water taxi will provide a novel transport option for spectators to and from the event.

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