By
Alex Smith |
Abu Dhabi Maritime has assumed responsibility for all ferry services operating within Abu Dhabi’s waterways.
Operating under the AD Ports Group and with guidance from the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), the organisation is integrating the ferry operations branch of the Integrated Transport Centre under its services. It will therefore oversee the daily operation of the emirate’s two major ferry lines – the Dalma Island Water Transport Service, which connects Dalma Island and Jebel Shanna Port, and the Al Aliah Island Water Transport Service, which operates between Al Aliah Island and Al Saadiyat Island.
“The integration is part of DMT’s long-term plan to deliver our leadership’s vision to establish our emirate as a top global maritime centre with streamlined ultra-modern services and infrastructure of the highest standards,” said His Excellency Hamad Al-Mutawa, executive director of planning and infrastructure sector at DMT. “The move will also support developing the maritime transport infrastructure further to serve the growing number of ferry users and will ensure a smoother experience for all commuters. This will also provide a sustained push to attract more tourists, support the economic development and give residents and tourists alike a safe, comfortable and reliable travel option in the emirate.”
Abu Dhabi Maritime will also lead the development of several business areas associated with ferry operations. This includes creating new infrastructure such as ferry stations, acquiring vessels, enhancing staff capabilities, developing third-party contractor relationships, and digitalising services, including adopting an online digital ticketing solution.
“The transfer of all ferry services under the jurisdiction of Abu Dhabi Maritime marks yet another critical step in our organisation’s efforts to consolidate all related water transport services under a single umbrella,” said Captain Saif Al Mheiri, managing director of Abu Dhabi Maritime for AD Ports Group. “We will support and oversee the ferry services’ daily operations and the future expansion of their activities, in-line with the overall growth of our maritime sector.”