Abu Dhabi has launched a new public water taxi service within the greater Yas Bay and Raha Beach community.
The water taxi service will enhance connectivity between a number of waterfront attractions, while offering an alternative transport option for the public.
It will initially operate across high-demand locations including Yas Bay, Yas Marina and Al Bandar, and add more stops in the future. The service will be open seven days a week and will follow scheduled timings which will ensure that the vessel is at every stop every hour.
Abu Dhabi Maritime, established by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) and AD Ports Group, the primary custodian of Abu Dhabi’s waterways, have started the service in collaboration with Miral, developers of immersive destinations and experiences in the capital.
Dr Khalfan Al Kaabi, Director General of Operational Affairs, Department of Municipalities and Transport (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.”
While supporting a sustainable public transport offering, the new water taxi service will provide a scenic connection with the Al Raha community and will allow tourists to discover Yas Island’s 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.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, added: “With enhanced connectivity, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to navigate, explore and enjoy the island’s world-class offerings and landmarks.
“The launch of the public water taxi comes after the success of the Water Shuttle Pilot Programme earlier this year by offering a robust marine transport system for anyone seeking to travel through the iconic Yas Bay Waterfront.”
Established in 2020, Abu Dhabi Maritime currently oversees Abu Dhabi’s commercial and community ports, leisure marinas, vessels, waterway users (commercial and private), maritime service companies and other marine infrastructures.