RTA operates 1440 trips on the tourist line of the Water Bus

Thus the tourist line of the Water Bus proves as another tributary of marine tourism in the emirate of Dubai, shuttling between Al Seef and Al Shindaga Station.

Ahmed Al Hamadi, Director of Operation & Performance Dep't at RTA Marine Agency, said that the Agency succeeded in operating 7677 trips across the Tourist Line of the Water Bus in a record time of 45 days only. "This is a strong indicator of the standing of marine tourism in the emirate of Dubai through the Water Bus. The Water Bus was introduced to enhance the role of mass transit, contain congested spots, contribute to the smooth flow of traffic & mobility, and provide an atmosphere conducive to the tourist requirements of the emirate of Dubai. It is viewed as part of an integrated tourist system interlinked with all projects, ushering an era of marine tourism in the emirate of Dubai," said Al Hamadi.

Al Hammadi stated that the Tourist Line of the Water Bus provides shuttling service between Al Shindaga Station and Al Seef Station across Line B5. The service starts at 08.00 am and ends at 11.00 pm and continues 7 days a week, at a rate of 32 trips per day. Each trip lasts 45 minutes with headway of 15 minutes. It accommodates 36 passengers at a fare of Dh25 per passenger per trip. This step aims at reviving marine tourism in the emirate of the emirate, particularly at Dubai Creek which is shaping into a point of attraction to huge numbers of tourists.

He added that the approved air-condition system of the Water Bus is among the best in use for air-conditioning of water buses. The system aims at creating a convenient & harmonious atmosphere among the commuters of the Water Bus, particularly in summer where temperature rises very high.

Al Hammadi added that the Agency is working towards developing marine transport service, including marine service. "The tourist line of the Water Bus aims at providing excellent services to clients. Customer opinion polls revealed that there was a preference for a marine transport mode that is both convenient and air-conditioned. Therefore, the Agency was keen to provide this mode through the two categories of the Water Bus (passenger service and tourist line). Highest air-conditioning standards were adopted to ensure a highly sophisticated air-conditioning system for users of marine transport service and tourists using the water bus, so as to reduce high temperature and humidity."