Abu Dhabi has upgraded its ferry service to the islands of Dalma and Al Ulayah, reducing travel times and improving infrastructure.

Abu Dhabi Ferries 2025

In 2025, Abu Dhabi upgraded its ferry system, operated by the Department of Transport and Abu Dhabi Maritime. There are now two main routes: a private route between Saadiyat and Al Ulayah Islands for passengers and cars (cars are transported free of charge), and a public route from Dalma Island to Al Dhannah Port, where tickets cost AED20 for adults, AED100 for cars, and children under 12 are transported free of charge. Dalma is one of the emirate’s remote inhabited islands, and the launch of the state-of-the-art catamarans Jazirat Dalma and Al Dhannah has reduced the journey time from two hours to 40 minutes. Each can accommodate up to 193 passengers and 25 cars, and is equipped with lifts for passengers with reduced mobility.

In February 2025, a new terminal covering almost 4,000 m² was opened on Al Ulayah Island. It includes modern passenger infrastructure, Ro-Ro loading areas, parking areas and office space. These measures are part of a comprehensive program to develop maritime transport and sustainable logistics in Abu Dhabi, aimed at integrating with other modes of transport, as well as expanding the tourist accessibility of the regions. Abu Dhabi Maritime is responsible for the digitalization of services, booking tickets and general modernization, with the support of AD Ports Group and the municipality.

Mobile apps and kiosks are available for residents and tourists to book tickets in advance. In addition to ferries, the emirate is also developing water taxis and buses connecting points such as Yas Marina, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Marsa Mina. The innovations contribute to improving the quality of transport services, reducing the load on the road network and turning Abu Dhabi into a modern coastal hub with an emphasis on comfort, safety and environmental friendliness.