News

Dubai’s Self-Driving, Electric Abra Blends Tech With Tradition

The Emirate is upgrading its waterway transportation fleet by introducing Sea Breeze, a smart, sustainable water taxi.

Published

2 years ago

May 15, 2023

Nour Nasir

dubai's self-driving electric abra blends tech with tradition

Dubai Media Office

Yesterday, a self-driving traditional wooden abra boat named “Sea Breeze” embarked on its first on-the-water trial on Dubai Creek between the Al Jadaf and Festival City stations.

The initiative, led by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), aims to enhance efficiency for residents and tourists while lowering emissions.

dubai electric abra render

“Dubai’s commitment to pioneering advancements in transportation is evident in the launch of the city’s first self-driving electric abra,” noted His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA. “This groundbreaking development aligns with our vision to transform Dubai into a smart city and offers an eco-friendly solution that ensures the sustainability of our transportation infrastructure”.

Featuring state-of-the-art automated navigation systems, the Sea Breeze can effortlessly glide along Dubai’s waterways while retaining the iconic shape of the traditional abra. The self-driving abra has plenty of benefits, including an increased passenger capacity of up to 8 people, reduced operational costs, and environmental impact due to its electric propulsion system.

dubai electric abra technology specs

As for the craft’s AI smarts, the self-driving abra can detect oncoming obstacles, notify the control center of system malfunctions and deviate from preset routes if obstacles are detected, or an emergency is announced.

Also Read: Dubai Launches The World’s Largest Ocean Restoration Project

“The launch of the self-driving electric abra marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s journey towards a sustainable and technologically advanced transportation system,” explained His Excellency Sultan Al Haddad, who is the CEO of the Marine Transport Sector at RTA. “By integrating advanced autonomous technology with an eco-friendly electric propulsion system, we are revolutionizing the way people move across Dubai’s vibrant waterfront areas”.

Dubai revealed a next-generation fleet of high-powered wooden abras back in 2020 as part of a plan to overhaul the emirate’s marine transport sector. The traditional boats were overhauled to cater to improved safety standards and to allow better access for people with disabilities. Changes included designated wheelchair spaces, life jackets stowed under seats and GPS technology, and upgraded digital payment systems.

News

Yabi Introduces AI Financial Coach For Smarter Money Moves

The app provides real-time, personalized financial guidance, helping UAE residents manage money smarter, reduce debt, and build wealth effortlessly.

Published

6 hours ago

February 22, 2025

Nour Nasir

Yabi

Imagine having 24/7 access to an expert financial advisor — someone who understands your spending habits, helps you save more effectively, and offers guidance for every financial decision. That’s the vision behind Yabi’s revamped platform, an AI-driven finance app designed to transform personal finance management in the UAE.

Unlike traditional budgeting tools, Yabi acts as an always-available AI advisor, analyzing your unique spending patterns and offering real-time, tailored financial advice. Whether you’re making everyday purchases, planning a big trip, or saving for a major milestone, Yabi keeps you on track and helps you make informed financial choices.

Rakhil Fernando, CEO of Yabi, explains the mission behind the platform: “Financial literacy is not optional — it’s essential. But most financial tools today feel outdated and overly complex. Yabi is here to change that by offering AI-powered financial coaching that’s smart, simple, and accessible to everyone in the UAE”.

Here are some of the updated app’s new features:

AI-Powered Financial Coach: A 24/7 digital advisor providing real-time financial guidance based on your spending habits and available in multiple languages.
Live Insights: Connect your bank accounts for a detailed breakdown of your expenses.
Tailored Budgeting: Yabi creates a budget that fits with your actual spending habits rather than generic financial advice.
Interactive Financial Education: Learn the essentials of saving, investing, and credit management through engaging content integrated into the AI experience.
Automated Expense Tracking: Receive instant alerts on overspending, identify hidden charges, and cut unnecessary subscriptions with ease.
Credit Score & Financial Health Monitoring: Get free credit score checks and AI-driven recommendations to enhance your financial standing.

Also Read: A Guide To Digital Payment Methods In The Middle East

Finally, Yabi is also gearing up to introduce its own debit card and a suite of financial products, making it easier to save, spend, and invest within a single platform.

Want to try Yabi for yourself? You can download the app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.