‘World’s First’ 3D-Printed Electric Abra Begins Trial Voyage In Dubai

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the trial operation of the world’s first electric abra manufactured using 3D printing technology, in collaboration with the private sector. The abra, which can carry 20 passengers, was designed, and built to retain the traditional abra identity.

Manufactured by Al Seer Marine Company in Abu Dhabi

Dubai launches trial operation of World’s First 3D-Printed abra. The abra was manufactured by Al Seer Marine Company in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with several global companies, including Mitsubishi of Japan, which provided the materials used in the manufacturing and printing of the abra, Siemens of Germany, which supervised the programming and calibration of the printer, and Torqeedo of Germany, which supplied the electric motors. TASNEEF Company oversaw the manufacturing process to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Abra’s features

• Longest monocoque structure created using 3D printing technology
• 20 passenger capacity – 11 meters in length and 3.1 meters in width
• 90% Reduction in manufacturing time
• 30% cost-cutting in production, operation, and maintenance

Aim

This initiative supports the government’s efforts to achieve Dubai’s 3D printing strategy. It aims to reduce abra manufacturing time by 90 per cent, slash manufacturing costs by 30 per cent, and cut operation and maintenance expenses by 30 per cent. Additionally, it supports RTA’s environmental sustainability strategy for maritime transport, the authority said.

Where will it operate?

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, stated: “The trial operation of the electric abra manufactured using 3D printing technology, along with the improvement of traditional abra stations project, is part of RTA’s master plan to enhance the marine transport services, a vital mobility means in Dubai, adding much value to the maritime transport sector.

Improvement of 4 stations

RTA is currently working on a project to upgrade the traditional abra stations in Dubai Creek. The project aims to improve marine transport services, enhance safety and security standards, meet the Dubai Universal Design Code requirements for People of Determination, and enhance the overall appearance of the traditional abra stations. These stations are used by over 14 million passengers annually.

Four traditional abra stations

The project includes the improvement of four traditional abra stations. In February 2023, RTA completed the improvement of Bur Dubai Marine Transport Station, and last February, it completed the upgrading of Deira Old Souq Station. The improvement of the Dubai Old Souq Station and Al Sabkha Station will be completed by August 2025.

Ensure passenger safety

The improvement works of marine transport stations included replacing all floating docks with new ones to ensure passenger safety in addition to providing retail spaces for better customer services, facilities for employees and operators, and bike racks to enhance transport integration.

Scope of the project

The scope of the project also includes increasing and improving passenger waiting areas, with priority seating and dedicated spaces for People of Determination, widening the docking spaces by 15 per cent, shaded waiting areas by 100 per cent, and commercial spaces by 27 per cent, while increasing compliance with the Dubai Code by 87 per cent. Sustainable, low-cost materials will be used, reducing annual maintenance costs by 10 per cent.

Continuous growth

The marine transport sector has seen an upward growth trajectory in the number of transport means, stations, and passengers since the completion of the Dubai Water Canal, which connects Dubai Creek to the coastal area. This sector will be further enhanced with the completion of urban and tourist facilities along the canal, as well as the construction of marine transport stations, making marine transport the preferred choice for many citizens, residents, and tourists to navigate and enjoy the scenic views of Dubai Creek, the Dubai Water Canal, and Dubai beaches.