Crossing the Dubai Creek with Abra ride
DUBAI. After living in The UAE for the past 7 years, the hidden gem of the old Dubai captured my attention. While we're staying in Carlton Hotel located in Baniyas Road in Deira, I was amazed by the breathtaking view of the old buildings along the Dubai Creek. I came up with the idea to explore the area using the famous motorized small boats popularly known as "Abras". It is also an opportunity for my kids to ride a boat.
The Abra Ride
There's an excitement in 1 Dirham! Yes, the boat ride is only 1 Dirham.
So after planning and a little internet research, we found out that there are two (2) routes that cross the Dubai Creek. The first is from Deira Old Souk Abra Station which is near the Spice Souk to Bur Dubai Abra Station and vice versa; the second route is from Sabkha Abra Station to Dubai Old Souk Abra Station and vice versa.
No need for advance booking, no reservation required. Just ride and pay the 1 Dirham directly to the abra driver and enjoy the ride!
The Stunning View.
Your 1 dirham will not just end up with the boat ride. The impressive view will lead you to the glorious past of Dubai. Here you will envision the UAE' s humble beginnings. The vernacular architectural design of the buildings contemplates the richness of UAE heritage.
We will surely return to continue the fun, but now on a personalized cruise. The abra driver gave us the option to charter the boat for about an hour with a minimal fee of AED 120. Still not bad.
After the cruise, you might want to pass the underpass instead of crossing the signal from the Abra Station going to Spice Souq.
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"A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions."
-Oliver Wendell Holmes