VIDEO: Sheikh Hamdan takes abra ride, explores Old Dubai market during Eid
- Last updated: June 8, 2025 | 22:24
In a rare appearance on public transport, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, chose to mark Eid Al Adha by taking a traditional abra across Dubai Creek.
The unannounced journey, shared on his Instagram account offered a glimpse of the emirate’s living heritage during the long weekend.
Filmed from the wooden boat’s deck, the video captures Sheikh Hamdan navigating the creek toward Al Seef Market.
There, he paused at spice merchants and local food stalls, sampling regional delicacies and engaging with vendors. The market’s blend of restored wind-tower architecture and contemporary boutiques provided the backdrop for the Crown Prince’s firsthand exploration of Old Dubai’s charisma.
Sheikh Hamdan’s abra excursion reflects his long-standing commitment to advancing Dubai’s transport network, from tram extensions to pioneering “flying taxi” trials.
By choosing a centuries-old water taxi—one of the city’s original transit modes—he reinforced the importance of preserving local traditions even as Dubai accelerates toward future-forward mobility solutions.
This Eid Al Adha gesture resonated widely.
“It’s inspiring to see our Crown Prince travel like any other resident, honoring our roots,” one Instagram user commented.
As Dubai continues its rapid development, Sheikh Hamdan’s creekside journey served as a reminder that the city’s identity still flows from its historic waterways.
The Crown Prince of Dubai has a wide range of interests in cycling, running, hunting, skydiving and flying helicopters to diving and hiking, and summiting peaks.
The sport-enthusiast royal is an avid lover of nature and animals. He shares breathtaking photographs and videos of his whereabouts on Instagram.
He has over 17 million followers on his Instagram account.
Hamdan’s Instagram bio reads, “Every picture has a story and every story has a moment that I'd love to share with you. Thanks and enjoy.”