RTA Launches Design Competition of the Water Taxi

The Marine Agency of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has launched an international competition among companies specialized in boat designs to attract the best and most appropriate design for the Water Taxi.Engineer Khalid Al Zahid, Acting CEO of Marine Agency at the RTA stated that the Agency addressed more than 30 companies specialized in boat designing in the continents of Australia, Europe and Asia in addition to major local companies. The aim is to attract the biggest number of various designs so as to select and approve the best design of the Water Taxi in a way to illustrate the corporate identity."The Water Taxi Project is part of projects series launched by the Agency to contain congestion and explore an alternative marine modes such as abras (rowing & motorized), water bus and water taxi to be followed by Dubai Ferry. The Agency is seeking to develop and operate all marine transport modes include conducting detailed studies and surveying applied practices necessary for designing, constructing and maintaining marine systems, lines and services" Al Zahid stated.He pointed out that the Water Taxi is different from the Water Bus in size as it has a capacity to accommodate seven to ten passengers. Moreover, it has a higher level of luxury as demonstrated in the high quality seating.The design of the boat focused on maintaining body balance while surfing in water. Therefore it has a dual base and equipped with highly sophisticated modern technology and navigational systems such as GPS and LCD monitors.In addition to that it has abundant security and safety features to match the vision of the RTA of providing "safe and smooth transport for all".Engineer Al Zahid added that booking of the Water Taxi is made over the phone, then passengers have to wait in the agreed station to board the Water Taxi. "Disembarkation is possible in any of the stations of the Water Taxi. "The Water Taxi service will start with ten Water Taxis and is scheduled for launch by the end of 2008" he announced. Al Zahid concluded by saying that the Water Taxi could be hired for tourist excursions across Dubai Creek to enjoy the fascinating landscapes and spend very nice moments. Source