
An abra is a traditional wooden boat that are used to ferry people along the Dubai waterways. The abra links different parts of the city and allows one to tour the city from a different perspective.
Traditionally, the boats were used by traders to transport goods from one market to the other. With time, the boats stopped being used for trade and converted to tourist attraction vessel.
It represents the traditional ways of Dubai and showcases the historical development of the city. The abras have now been decorated with modern fitting, perfectly blending the traditional and modern designs.
There are different types of abras that are used in Dubai. These include:
• Motorized abra
• Petro Heritage Abra
• Electric Abra
• Dubai Marina Abra
The motorized abra charges 1 dirham per person and the capacity varies depending on the availability.
The Petro Heritage abra on the other hand charges 25 dirhams per person and has a capacity of 20 passengers.
An electric abra charges 65 dirhams per person and carries a maximum of 8 passengers. The electric abras have become more popular nowadays since plans for green travel were introduced.
The Dubai Marina Abra charges between 3 to 5 dirhams and has a varying capacity.
While abras are cheap and affordable, riding in a public abra may be crowded and very rushed. If you want to take your time in the Dubai waters and even enjoy a drink while sightseeing, hiring a private abra is the best solution.
You can charter an abra for up to one hour, which is a lot of time compared to the regular abras which will carry you for 5 to 15 minutes.
A private abra is customized to meet your requirements so as to provide you with maximum enjoyment. You can book for a private abra for just yourself, or with your loved ones or even with a group.
A private abra is more comfortable with most having air conditioners. The seating area is also spacious and they are designed to make you feel relaxed when sailing. You will therefore enjoy the peace and freshness as you cruise slowly while sipping your favourite drink.
Even though it is a bit pricey, you will surely enjoy the ride and find value for your money. Many people are now embracing private abras as they give a personalised experience and you get to ride on your own terms.
You can either visit the main stations along Dubai Creek and ask for a private charter. You may also reach out to a tour operator like Arabiers who will help organize a private abra for you.
This is the safest method since it is hassle free and you do not have to go to the boarding stations to look for one. Searching for a private abra by yourself may be very hectic and difficult for many people.
Arabiers is one of the reputable tour operators that have come forward to help people navigate this tiring task and make it easier for everyone. The only thing you do is reach out to them through WhatsApp and tell them your requirements and then wait as they handle the rest.
The company partners with abra providers to charter their customers across Dubai creek. When you buy this package, it will also include a guide who will be educating you about the different attraction along the route and also their historical benefits.
When booking an abra, you need to specify the duration you want to rent it for, which can range from an hour, several hours, days or even a month.
There are four main stations along Dubai Creek where you can board a private abra. Many abra providers are located in these stations so when you book for one, you will have to go to either of these departure points.
Below are the main stations along Dubai Creek
• Bur Dubai Station
• Deira Station
• Al Sabkha Station
• Dubai Marina Station
A private abra allows you to see both the past and the current modern sides of Dubai. Interacting with the locals will give you a peek into the cultural and historical heritage of Dubai. Explore the old town of Dubai and get to learn more about the history and culture of Dubai.
You will get a chance to experience Dubai’s charm as you peacefully sail through its waters. An abra ride is a short yet peaceful escape from the noise of the city. You can quietly meditate and relax as you take in the beautiful surroundings.
There are several stops to the traditional souks like the Gold Souk, where you can stop to admire and even buy some items.
You can choose a sunset abra ride because at that time the views are spectacular. Enjoy as the beautiful hues reflect on the water and the buildings along the waterway. You will witness also how the day is slowly transforming into night and the stars starts coming up.
Carry your camera or smartphone with you to take beautiful pictures as you sail through the Dubai Creek in an Abra. Capture great memories that you will keep remembering Dubai with when you go back to your home.
Even though a regular abra is cheap, the experiences you get from riding a private one are unmatched. Here are some of the benefits you enjoy when you ride a private abra along Dubai Creek:
• You get personalised ambience so you can take the opportunity to ride with your loved ones. The intimate ambience is perfect especially for romantic getaway or even for meditation.
• You enjoy a flexible itinerary as the operator moves with your pace and follows your requirements for the time you have hired the abra. You can stop any place you want to and stay there for reasonable time.
• You enjoy dedicated services from the crew as they are there to attend to just you. They will educate you about the regions you cruise through, tell you about the attractions an also teach you the historical and cultural importances of the abras to the people of Dubai.
• You get exclusive access to places that are off the usual route followed by other abras. A private abra gives you value for your money by offering you a unique experience different from the regular one.
A private abra gives you an opportunity to explore Dubai and the areas surrounding Dubai Creek. Below we will mention some of the most popular places you ought to visit when you go for an abra ride along Dubai Creek:
• The Dubai Creek Harbour which is full of restaurants, cafes and entertainment joints
• Al Fahidi Historical neighbourhood that has many art galleries, cafes and also restaurants
• Bur Juman shopping mall
• Souks, including the Gold Souk and Spice Souk
• Dubai Creek Park
• Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort
A private abra will take your adventure along Dubai Creek to the next level. It provides comfort, privacy and also a relaxed ambience that is great for unwinding. You can consider a private abra if you have a special celebration or you want to create special memories.
Booking a private abra is very easy with a tour operator. Remember to verify and settle for a reputable operator when looking for a tour package that includes an abra ride. Do not miss out on this adventure that offers you a chance to explore Dubai Creek.