News Details

Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Inaugurates New Ferries Serving Dalma Island in Abu Dhabi

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, inaugurated two new public ferries serving Dalma Island. Developed to enhance connectivity and promote the island as a key maritime destination in the Al Dhafra region of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the two state-of-the-art vessels represent a significant addition to the emirate’s transport infrastructure. The project was initiated by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, and was executed by Abu Dhabi Maritime, part of AD Ports Group.

The identical ferries, named the Jazirat Dalma and Al Dhannah, each have a capacity of 193 passengers and 25 cars, and can reach a speed of 35 knots, equivalent to roughly 65 km per hour.

The vessels’ sleek catamaran hulls produce less drag and offer greater stability and manoeuvrability than traditional hull geometry, allowing for a more comfortable voyage for passengers. Made of aluminium, the hulls also enable higher speeds than heavier- steel-hull vessels. The Jazirat Dalma and Al Dhannah each have an onboard elevator connecting the vehicle and passenger decks, ensuring access for people of determination.

Dr Abdulla Hamad Al Ghfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said: “The introduction of the Jazirat Dalma and Al Dhannah ferries marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance Abu Dhabi’s transportation network. These state-of-the-art vessels not only improve accessibility and convenience for residents and visitors but also reflect our commitment to delivering sustainable, efficient, and innovative transport solutions. We remain dedicated to advancing mobility options that support the emirate’s development and strengthen its maritime connectivity.”

Capt. Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group, added: "Abu Dhabi Maritime, in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Mobility, is dedicated to strengthening the Emirate’s maritime capabilities, harnessing the potential of our coastal geography to support community development. These modern vessels embody our approach by emphasising innovation, efficiency, and customer experience to advance Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading maritime hub."

The new vessels currently circulate between Dalma Island and Jebel Dhannah ferry terminal on the mainland, together providing two daily round trips.

The launch of Jazirat Dalma and Al Dhannah ferries follows the inauguration of the new Al Aliah Island Ferry Terminal in February, and the Saadiyat Island Marina & Ferry Terminal and Rabdan Marina in 2024.