10.53 PM Thursday, 28 March 2024
  • City Fajr Shuruq Duhr Asr Magrib Isha
  • Dubai 04:57 06:11 12:27 15:53 18:37 19:51
28 March 2024

RTA's Dubai ferry offers iftar and suhour tour

Published
By Majorie van Leijen

For the month of Ramadan Dubai ferry of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has taken up a special tour in its program. Twice a day – once for iftar and once for suhour - the vessel turns into a restaurant on water, while taking the dining guests on a tour alongside some of Dubai's most popular attractions.

The ferry departs from its usual dock – in front of Dubai Marina Mall. But there is nothing usual about this trip. The interior has been redesigned into a dining setting; the staff is there to serve and even the route has been adjusted.

When opting for the iftar ferry ride, guests will be able to board on time to break the fast. Although the ferry does not take off until 7.30 PM, guests are welcome to take place from 7 PM onwards: the food is ready.

Every table is prepared with a plate of dates, dried apricot and raisins. The usual iftar lemonades are going around. Appetizers are aplenty, so are the sweets. In addition to what is offered in the open buffet, a plate of shawarma is served on the side.

The Ramadan offer is a collaboration between RTA and Bazerkan, which is part of Byblos Hospitality. "It is the first time we offer our services on Dubai Ferry," said Georges Hachem, Operation Manager of the restaurant chain.

With culinary surprises such as seafood dipped in béchamel sauce, cheese salad, and pastrami rolls guests are likely to welcome the chef on board.

However, it is not only about the food. The ferry takes guests on a tour of some of Dubai's nicest waterfronts. After following the trace of Dubai Marina Walk, the ferry heads towards Jumeirah Palm, where it takes its turn.

"The whole trip takes about 1,5 hour and is adjusted to suit the iftar ride. We have another trip with a suhour buffet," says Baha Al Qudrah, Director of Marine Transport, RTA.

Although the trip serves Ramadan guests, it is meant for residents as well as tourists, he says. "On the first day we had a mix of people. There were some Russian tourists, and some people living in Dubai."

The Suhour ride takes off at 10.30pm, and costs Dh120, while the iftar ride costs Dh180. "It is a meal and a tour. It offers people the opportunity to see some of Dubai's attractions while enjoying good food," said Baha.

A normal trip with Dubai Ferry costs Dh50 for a silver ticket, or Dh75 for a gold ticket. Services were launched in 2011, and the ferry operates on a daily basis offering two tours: one tour departing from Ghubaiba water station and passing Burj Al Arab, while the second tour departs from Dubai Marina Mall passing Atlantis on Palm Jumeirah.

The offer will only be available throughout the month of Ramadan. Reservations can be made at Bazerkan Restaurant: 04 4420129.