The Dubai-Sharjah Ferry was launched to make it easier for people to go forth between the two Emirates. The idea works. In fact, it works so well that I would actually call this a new attraction.
[September 2023 update: This ferry was discontinued during covid but they restarted it last month, alhamdulillah.]
I tried the Ferry myself and had an amazing time. So here’s how you can have a fun outing as well.
The Dubai side is in Bur Dubai. It uses the Ghubaiba Marine Station. That’s where the Shindagha Historic District is. The place itself is very scenic with multiple museums, with more on the way.
I’ve already written a post about the Shindagha District along with photos of the place.
A tour of the place could take a few hours so try to come early. You can then hop on the Ferry. It leaves every half an hour on the dot and takes 35 mins to reach Sharjah. Tickets are purchased at the counter. (Nol cards are also used.)
The cost is AED 15 for the Silver Class and AED 25 for the Gold Glass (it has better seating).
This is what the the Ferry looks like:
The Ferry itself is air conditioned and has good seating. It felt a bit like sitting on an airplane. There were toilets and two places for wheelchairs (which can be locked into the ground).
The view was really good and the trip was very calming. There was free Wifi as well (after registering your number).
Passengers can go to the back of the ferry (an open area) in order to take photos of the view (the stewards come and announce this).
Here are some pics and videos that I took from there (from both the trip to Sharjah and back):
The Ferry stops at Aquarium Marine Station. From that stop, it goes to Dubai every hour. The Sharjah side has two attractions: Sharjah Aquarium and Maritime Museum, and the view from this stop is also very scenic. You may refer to my post on these two places.
After this, a person can return to Dubai using the Ferry (which is a separate cost from the first trip). Taking the trip after sunset would mean getting a night view of the journey.
Overall, the Ferry was a great ride and the two stops are exceptional tourists sites. Highly recommended for everyone.
Here’s the official RTA page for the Dubai Ferry:
Here’s more information about the Ferry.