Doha, Qatar – November 2024
The Ministry of Transport (MoT) has announced the completion of the first phase of the Water Taxi project, a milestone unveiled during the Qatar Boat Show at Old Doha Port. The initial phase includes the completion of the Lusail Ferry Terminal and two ferry stops at Pearl Ferry Stop and Corniche Ferry Stop.
This ambitious project aims to provide a modern, eco-friendly waterborne public transportation system, enhancing connectivity across Qatar and supporting Qatar Tourism’s plans to promote domestic travel. The Water Taxi project is aligned with the National Tourism Strategy 2030, focusing on sustainability, economic diversification, and advanced technology integration.
Lusail Ferry Terminal and Ferry Stops
The Lusail Ferry Terminal spans an area of over 2,200 sqm and features a pontoon equipped with electric chargers capable of accommodating four 24-meter-long ferries. The terminal includes a waiting area, ticketing facility, and various service facilities such as retail outlets and offices.
The Pearl Ferry Stop and Corniche Ferry Stop are similarly equipped with pontoons, ticketing offices, and customer service facilities.
Future Phases of the Water Taxi Project
The MoT revealed plans for future expansion:
• Phase Two: Covering key locations such as Katara, Old Doha Port, Hamad International Airport, and Al Wakra.
• Phase Three: Extending connections from Old Doha Port to Al Khour in northern Qatar, passing through Lusail City and Simaisma, with further studies planned.
Promoting Qatar’s Tourism and Community Engagement
The Water Taxi project contributes to elevating Qatar’s tourism profile by promoting ferry-based domestic travel. In addition, the MoT booth at the Qatar Boat Show highlights:
• Digital services for vessels available on the MoT website.
• The Automatic Identification System (AIS) for improved ship safety and tracking during inspections.
• The Skipper Plus moisture meter, designed to ensure the structural integrity of wooden and fiberglass boats, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Panel Discussions and Industry Insights
On the sidelines of the Qatar Boat Show, the MoT is hosting two panel discussions in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO):
1. Safe Navigation: Raising awareness about boat types and safe navigation practices.
2. Unmanned Ships: Exploring the reliability and benefits of unmanned ships and technological advancements for smaller and leisure boats.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
His Excellency Capt. Abdullah Mohammed Al-Khanji, CEO of Mwani Qatar, said:
“The Water Taxi project supports Qatar’s goal of achieving sustainable and advanced transportation systems, benefiting both residents and visitors.”
Salem Al Marri, Public Relations and Communications Director at Katara, commented:
“The project enhances Qatar’s marine tourism landscape and aligns with our mission to support cultural diversity and community engagement.”
The MoT continues to work on selecting the project operator and the types of ferries to be used, aiming to deliver seamless integration with the Sila public transit system.
For more information, visit www.mot.gov.qa.
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