Dubai is a ridiculously fascinating city, where every inch boasts wonders and presents a spectacle of modern innovation, cultural richness, and beautiful experiences. If you’re planning to visit this marvelous city, then you must be well aware of how to get around this city with ease. Dubai offers a wide range of transport options that are efficient, comfortable, and modern, suiting every traveler’s needs, preferences, and budget. So, here’s a well-curated guide on public transport in Dubai, ensuring that your journey is smooth, safe, and enjoyable. Let’s get started!
Here’s a Detailed Guide on How to Get Around Dubai for First-Time Travelers
When it comes to transport in Dubai, there are numerous options, including buses and limousine services – choose as you desire, keeping your budget in mind. Getting around Dubai is an experience in itself, where the well-maintained roads, multilingual signboards, and affordable Nol card system simplify travel, even for first-time visitors.
Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is the most preferred public transportation choice, allowing for easy and comfortable travel. These metros are fully automated, properly air-conditioned, and meticulously maintained, ensuring a comfortable journey for you. To beat Dubai’s so-much-talked-about traffic scenes, Metro comes as a savior, letting you explore the city in an easy breezy way.
Fares of Dubai Metro: The fares for the Dubai Metro start at AED 3 and increase depending on your route and destination. Additionally, Silver Cards, Gold Cards, and Red Tickets are available, depending on your travel frequency. The Silver Card is ideal for tourists, costing AED 25 with a balance of AED 19 already included.
Operating Hours of Dubai Metro:
- Monday to Thursday: 5 AM to 12 AM
- Friday: 5 AM to 1 AM
- Saturday: 5 AM to 12 AM
- Sunday: 8 AM to 12 AM
Visitors' tip: Passengers can use RTA Apps to get around the Dubai Metro easily. In this app, they’ll get access to metro schedules, maps, and fare calculators.
Dubai Tram
This is the second most opted transport in Dubai, which seamlessly connects Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR), and Al Sufouh. The Dubai Trams are a high-tech light rail that offers passengers ultimate convenience, comfort, and sustainability. The ultra-modern vibe of these trams is not to be missed- passengers will definitely have a great time gliding through scenic coastal areas like Dubai Marina and JBR in perfect climate-controlled comfort. And the best part is that passengers do not have to wait long; the tram arrives every 6-10 minutes. Also, there are dedicated sections for women and children, making travel much easier and safer.
Fares of Dubai Tram: The fare for the Dubai Tram is the same as the metro (via Nol card). Please maintain the ideal or required balance, as fines are no joke in the city.
Operating Hours of Dubai Tram:
- Monday to Saturday: 6 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday: 9 AM to 1 AM
Public Transportation: Buses, Taxis, and Ride-Hailing Services
Public Buses
These are one of the most economical transport options in Dubai. They are convenient and offer extensive route coverage. These are hop-on and hop-off buses, which are best suited for first-time travelers. They are easy to board and offer a comprehensive way to explore over 20 of Dubai’s top landmarks, which mainly include Burj Khalifa, Dubai Museum, Jumeirah Mosque, and Atlantis The Palm. Additionally, travelers will have access to multilingual audio guides, which will enhance their journey by sharing fascinating facts and stories about each destination, thereby enriching their overall sightseeing experience. These buses are air-conditioned, extremely clean, and safe, prioritizing passengers’ comfort. NoI cards can be used to board the buses or transfer between the metro, buses, and trams. There are three main routes, including:
- Route 8 (Jumeirah Beach, Burj Al Arab, and Marina Mall)
- Route F55 (for night travel to Dubai International Airport Terminal 2)
- Route 81 (covers Mall of the Emirates and the Palm Jumeirah area)
Fares of Public Buses:
The fares start at AED 3 and go higher depending on the route and destination chosen. Please note that cash is not accepted, NoI Card is the only way to travel via Dubai buses.
Operating Hours of Dubai Public Buses:
- Monday to Sunday: 4.30 AM to 12.30 AM
- Night Buses: Operates round the clock, typically for Route F55.
Taxis
This is another excellent option for getting around Dubai if you prefer to travel in your personal space. These taxis are government-regulated. They are widely available and always ready to serve you. And do not worry, even a bit, these taxis are strictly operated by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and equipped with professional drivers and standardized rates only.
Fares of Taxis:
- The starting fare is AED 12 for the Daytime (6 AM to 10 PM) and AED 14 for the Nighttime (10 PM to 6 AM)
- The fare can be calculated as AED 1.82 per kilometer (based on distance and time)
Operating Hours of Taxis:
Taxis are available 24/7.
Additionally, Dubai offers various types of taxis, including cream-colored Standard Taxis, Pink-Roofed Ladies Taxis, Airport Taxis (heavy-duty), and Hala taxis.
Ride-Hailing Services
These are a fast, flexible, and convenient way to get around Dubai. Travelers can use apps like
Careem (Dubai’s homegrown service), Uber, and Dubai Taxi Corporation’s Hala are the primary options for booking these taxis. Not to mention, these are super-punctual services, operated by professional drivers in comfortable vehicles. The best part is that you can choose from economy rides to luxury cars.
Fares:
The fares in Dubai vary-
- UberX starts around AED 10–15
- Shared rides begin at AED 7–10
- Premium options like Uber Black or Careem Business cost more for a luxury experience.
- Airport pickups usually have a flat fee, starting from AED 50 for standard vehicles.
Operating Hours:
Operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including late nights, public holidays, and weekends
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Cycling & Walking
Getting around Dubai can be fun if you go for walks and cycling options. There are several pedestrian-friendly zones, including Downtown, Dubai Marina, Al Seef, and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), offering scenic views and a serene yet safe strolling experience. The best part about exploring Dubai on foot is that you can do so at your own pace. Well, it’s advisable to avoid walking during the peak daytime heat, as you might encounter midday heat stroke, especially between June and September. Early mornings and late evenings are the best!
The second option includes bike rentals & e-scooters, which cost around AED 20/day (monthly and yearly passes) and are available via Tier, Lime, and Skurtt apps in specific zones. These are super fun and convenient alternatives for those who enjoy riding a bicycle and want efficient transport.
A tip for tourists: Always remember to stay hydrated and follow safety regulations when using these services.
Tourist Transport Options
Getting around Dubai is very convenient and cost-effective if you choose tourist transport options. Top picks are:
- Limousine Services, which are the second most opted tourist transport option, add a touch of elegance and exclusivity to your journey. Offering a world-class travel experience, Limousine services can be pre-booked and are best suited for business travelers, special events, or anyone wanting to explore the city without compromising on comfort and elegance.
- Hotel shuttles are also an option, as many Dubai hotels offer these services to their guests. This is among the convenient transportation options to popular destinations like public beaches, shopping malls, or major attractions such as Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Kite Beach.
Please note: Before booking a hotel shuttle, it's advisable to thoroughly check with your hotel’s concierge or front desk for updated timings and stops.
Nol Card: Your Ticket to Public Transport
The NoI Card is a super-important travel companion for anyone using public transport in Dubai. It was introduced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in the form of a smart card to simplify and ease travel in Dubai, eliminating the need for cash or separate tickets.
There are four types of Nol Cards, each catering to specific needs:
- The RED TICKET for tourists on shorter stays. This ticket is valid for up to 10 days.
- The GOLD CARD, which is similar to the SILVER CARD, but offers access to Gold Class cabins on the Metro and Tram.
- The SILVER CARD is designed for regular users. This card is preloaded with AED 19 and can be recharged up to AED 1000 as required.
- The BLUE CARD, which is personalized and registered. This card is suitable for students, senior citizens, and people with disabilities or special needs, often offering discounted fares as part of the inclusive policies.
Please note: The NoI Cards can be easily purchased and recharged at metro stations, bus stations, ticket vending machines, and even online through the RTA website or app in Dubai. It’s crucial to have a minimum balance of AED 7.5 to start a journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any travel tips for Dubai tourism for first-time travelers?
Yes, try to dress modestly, stay hydrated, and travel responsibly in public transportation. Littering the vehicle and disturbing other passengers is strictly discouraged. Also, avoid peak hours for a more comfortable ride and always check metro and tram timings in advance.
What is Abra, and what are its costs?
Abra is the name of the water taxis in Dubai, traditional wooden boats that locals and visitors use to cross Dubai. The Abra costs AED 1 for a one-way ride.
What is the ticket price for booking Dubai ferries?
The ticket price for booking Dubai ferries is AED 15- 25 for standard tickets, AED 50 for sightseeing rides, and free for children.
So, are you ready to roam around in Dubai like a pro? Book your world-class Dubai Tour Package with us today and start your adventure journey filled with exploration and excitement.