Dubai-Sharjah ferry: How commuters may save two hours of traffic and save over Dh50 each trip
After being temporarily halted during the epidemic, RTA restored the marine transportation route connecting the emirates' operations on August 4.
Residents of the United Arab Emirates who commute between Dubai and Sharjah have chosen to use the Dubai Ferry instead of the stressful road trip.
After being temporarily halted during the epidemic, the maritime transportation connection between Dubai and Sharjah was once again operational on August 4 by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
preserving money and time
Suleiman Ibrahim, a seller of spices and dry fruits in Deira, is one of the several passengers aboard the ferry. He lives in Sharjah's Al Khan neighborhood and relies entirely on Dubai Ferry to get him to work every day.
"I used to travel by bus or car for more than three hours every day. I saved two hours of time and more than Dh50 a day when I started using the ferry to work in early September of this year, adds Ibrahim.
He travels back and forth between the two emirates for 20 to 22 days a month, which allows him to save up to Dh1,000.
Stress-relieving substitute
Not only has time and money been an issue, but road traffic also contributed to mental stress, which has mostly subsided. Every day is a really serene adventure. Ibrahim continues, "I think business has increased as well since I can concentrate on my work more.
Engineer Arjun Jaykumar, who works at Al Jaddaf, concurs. "My father drops me off at my office, but I usually take the ferry back."
"The metro station is just a short stroll from where I work. It takes me two minutes to walk from the Al Ghubaiba metro station to the adjacent marine station. My entire commute to get home is almost an hour because the boat ride takes 35 minutes, adds Arjun.
Meeting while on the go
Businessman Ardashir loves the ferry more than any other way to get to and from Sharjah. He thinks he can make the most of his trip time and the ride is quite tranquil.
"The trip is so calm that I can have morning and evening meetings while on the go, and I can speak with my clients and staff. In addition to saving me time, this makes the commute more productive, says Ardashir.
large discounts at events
One major benefit that locals point out is the significant cost savings that occur during Gitex and Gulf Food events in Dubai. Commuters who choose the ferry save money on fuel and do not have to pay for costly parking in Dubai, where rates can amount to Dh250 at places like the World Trade Center.
Selecting the Dubai boat for major occasions such as Gulf Food and Gitex is revolutionary. I save three hours a day and Dh350 a day on my journey," claims Ahmed, a Sharjah-based businessman.
"It's not just about money; it's about enjoying a stress-free trip to these important events and saving valuable time," he continues.
Moments
There are two ferries that leave Sharjah at 7 and 8.30 am on weekdays, and one that leaves Dubai at 7.45 am. There are three departures from Dubai at 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7 p.m., and two trips from Sharjah at 4.45 p.m. and 6.15 p.m.
There are six journeys from Friday to Sunday, with three journeys departing at midday from each side. Trips departing from Dubai begin at 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 8 p.m., while those leaving Sharjah depart at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m.