Summary
Explore Ras Al Khaimah’s captivating landscapes via the traditional abra service, connecting you to popular destinations including Flamingo Beach and Al Qawasim Corniche. This guide details abra stations, booking information, timings, fares, plus RAKTA’s advanced safety features and essential regulations for a smooth, enjoyable ride.
Are you looking for a scenic way to get around Ras Al Khaimah? Riding an abra is both an excellent tourist activity and a mode of transportation in the northernmost emirate.
An abra is a traditional Emirati vessel that has been used to traverse the creeks of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Originally powered by oars, abras these days retain their classic design while ensuring efficiency and safety with the use of modern motors and innovative features.
Are you excited to try it? Before you hop on board, it helps to know where you can catch an abra in Ras Al Khaimah, how to book a ride, and what to expect. This guide breaks it all down so you can sit back and enjoy the journey.
Abra Stations and Nearby Destinations
The Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) launched the abra service in 2022, aiming to cater to both commuters and tourists. Since then, the new mode of transport across the creek has brought people to the top destinations and the best hotels in Ras Al Khaimah so they can bask in the emirate’s peaceful, laid-back ambiance.
If you’re more of a scenic route kind of traveler, an abra ride would fit your style. Ras Al Khaimah abras stop at the following stations:
- Corniche 1
- Corniche 2
- Hilton Garden Inn
- Manar Mall
To make your Ras Al Khaimah tour even more fulfilling, consider visiting the following nearby destinations:
Flamingo Beach
Ras Al Khaimah is known not only for its quiet ambiance but also for its abundant nature and wildlife. Among the places where this is most apparent is in Flamingo Beach, where you’ll find greater flamingos (known as fanteer in Arabic or Phoenicopterus roseus in the scientific community).
This colorful bird lives in the mangroves of Mina Al Arab, located near the beach of the same name. These long-legged avian species are the largest in the genus and are known to wade through the shallow waters of the Arabian Gulf, necks arched in search of their next meal.
Nestled between Al Hamra Village and the city center, Flamingo Beach is home to two greater flamingoes. It is an ideal destination for families as the lack of currents and shallow shores make playing games, learning to swim, and taking a relaxing stroll safe and enjoyable.
Saqr Park
Looking to experience outdoor activities in Ras Al Khaimah after riding an abra? Head to Saqr Park—a vast community parkland that offers year-round activities that everyone can enjoy.
Inaugurated in 1991, the park got its name from the Arabic word for “falcon” in honor of the country’s longstanding falconry heritage, now associated with social engagement and nature conservation. Overall, the park is a place where people can connect and have fun.
Al Rams Beach
Other excellent places to visit in Ras Al Khaimah are Al Rams Beach and Saraya Island — a tranquil destination for those seeking an awe-inspiring view of the Arabian Gulf and the Hajar mountain range. Composed of natural sandbars and isles interspersed across the Gulf, the beach makes the mountain range look like it’s peacefully soaking in the glistening sea.
Al Qawasim Corniche
Hailed as the most beautiful road in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Qawasim Corniche is a stretch of mangroves that line the emirate’s coast. It is named after the Al Qawasim clan, a group of traders who controlled the region’s markets in the 18th century.
This three-kilometer waterfront promenade caters not only to flamingos but also to families, cyclists, joggers, walkers, and people visiting local restaurants and cafes. Because it is juxtaposed with the urban landscape, this protected mangrove forest offers an incredibly unique view you wouldn’t want to miss.
Ras Al Khaimah Creek Abra Booking and Timings
Ready to have a wonderful time? Booking an abra in Ras Al Khaimah is easy and hassle-free. All you need to do is visit the transport stations mentioned above to secure a ticket via an electronic reservation system. You can also pay using electronic payment cards or cash.
Here’s how much abra rides cost:
- AED 10 per station
- AED 150 for 30-minute rentals
- AED 300 60-minute rentals
Also, note that kids under two years of age can ride for free. If you have a booking inquiry, you can reach RAKTA at 8001700.
Ras Al Khaimah abras operate daily between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
RAKTA Abra Safety Features and Regulations
Riding an abra is also considered one of the best things to do in Ras Al Khaimah with family because of its safety features.
Don’t let the heritage-style abra designs fool you. These vessels are equipped with cutting-edge features that ensure your comfort and safety throughout your journey:
- AI-powered smart cameras are linked to the Smart Control and Monitoring Center to keep an eye on your ride at all times.
- GPS tracking systems ensure seamless navigation of the creek.
- Qualified and licensed abra drivers take the helm to ensure expert guidance.
- Complete marine safety equipment and easy-to-read safety instructions are available to passengers.
The abra service also fully complies with environmental and marine safety regulations, which are regularly checked by RAKTA’s dedicated control inspectors.
Boat Safety Rules
To enhance the safety of abra riders, RAKTA has laid out the following safety regulations:
- Riders must wear life jackets provided by the management.
- Children must always be under adult supervision.
- Stoller brakes must be applied during transit.
- No standing; passengers must remain seated during the journey.
- No pets are allowed in an abra.
- No littering, eating, and throwing trash in the water.
- Bringing or consuming alcoholic beverages and cigarettes during the trip is prohibited.
- Luggage must not be placed in the doorway.
- Passengers are not allowed to put their feet up on the seats.
These rules are designed to ensure a safe and satisfying abra experience for everyone.
Enjoy Your Abra Ride
The Ras Al Khaimah abra service offers not just a mode of transportation but also a special activity you can enjoy with your loved ones.
Enjoy the gentle swaying of the vessel and travel the tranquil emirate the traditional way.
With easy booking, affordable fares, and strict safety measures, all that’s left to do is hop on, relax, and enjoy your abra ride.
