The custodian of all of Abu Dhabi’s waterways and marine ecosystems, Abu Dhabi Maritime, has assumed responsibility for all ferry services operating within Abu Dhabi’s waterways, official sources have said.
The Abu Dhabi Maritime is operating under the AD Ports Group, with guidance from the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
Further, the organization is integrating the Ferry Operations Branch of the Integrated Transport Center (ITC) under the scope of its services.
The move is expected to see Abu Dhabi Maritime manage and oversee the daily operation of the Emirate’s two major ferry lines, the Dalma Island Water Transport Service which covers Dalma Island and Jebel Dhanna Port.
The second is Al Aliah Island Water Transport Service, which connects Al Aliah Island and Al Saadiyat Island.
The organization will also drive the development of several key business areas associated with ferry operations.
This includes the creation of new infrastructure such as ferry stations, acquisition of vessels, enhancement of staff capabilities, fostering third-party contractor relationships, as well as leading the digitalization of Abu Dhabi’s ferry services.
Hamad Al-Mutawa, Executive Director of Planning and Infrastructure Sector at DMT, said, “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”, he added.
Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Group CEO of AD Ports Group, said: “Consolidating ferry operations under a single entity that is focused solely on growing Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector, will help achieve our government’s vision of positioning our Emirate as a global maritime hub.
In addition to optimizing operations and realizing new levels of efficiency across all ferry-related activities, Abu Dhabi Maritime aims to further enrich the user experience through innovation and digitalization.
Part of this will include the adoption of an online digital ticketing solution, along with the integration with other related water services.