A visit to Dubai would be impoverished if we left out enjoying the views from the water. Fortunately, there are different options for everyone, but one of the most peculiar is taking a ride in one of the typical boats of the city, abra or water taxi.
Abras are the most charming means of transport in the Emirates. They are small wooden motor driven boats that cross the Creek, a tongue of water that flows into the Arabian Gulf Sea separating the two oldest districts of Dubai, Al Bastakiya and Deira. For less than a euro, when converted to the European currency, you can take a seat in an abra and enjoy a ride of about 15 minutes from one bank to another under a gentle breeze that relieves a bit the tremendous heat.
The motorized abra was the main means of transport to get from one neighborhood to another before the cars were able to cross on several bridges or the Al Shindagha Tunnel. Today it is mostly used by tourists, ordinary people and those that are nostalgic. However, it remains an essential and common transport in Dubai, carrying between 15 and 20 million passengers a year. In addition, the abras are a part of the typical picture of Dubai Creek and are considered part of the heritage of the city.
In January, as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, an abra race takes place where you can see these lovely boats sailing the seas, with skyscrapers in the background. An event worth seeing where past and future blend seamlessly.
Where to stay
In Dubai:
BlueBay Armada Jumeirah Lakes Towers **** located in one of the Armada towers opposite the Jumeirah lake, facing the exclusive urbanization of the Emirates Hills and Dubai Marina.
In Deira:
BlueBay Black Stone**** is located in the business center of Dubai, five minutes walking from Clock Tower and Union Square Station, very close to Dubai International Airport and Dubai International Exhibition Centre.
