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Transportation in Dubai: How to get around
Navigate Dubai with ease. Discover top options for transportation in Dubai: Metro, taxis, trams, buses, and boats.
Navigating Dubai’s ultra-modern landscape can be an experience, with a range of transport options designed for efficiency and comfort. Understanding the ins and outs of transportation in Dubai is key to unlocking the city’s sites, whether you’re a first-time visitor or return traveler.
This guide will help you discover how to get around Dubai efficiently, covering all the important modes of transport, from its Metro system to taxis and ride-sharing services. We also show you how to stay connected as you navigate across Dubai with an unlimited data travel eSIM from Holafly.
Connectivity made easy
Activate your Dubai eSIM in a few simple steps and manage your plan through our dedicated app.
Getting around Dubai by train
The Dubai Metro is the backbone of public transportation in Dubai, offering a fast, affordable, and air-conditioned way to explore the city – and one of the best ways to get around Dubai. You can hop on and off as you please, enjoying the city and tasting some delicious Dubai street food.
The Metro’s red and green lines cover many of Dubai’s key attractions and business districts. The Red Line, for example, connects Dubai International Airport (DXB) to areas like Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and the Dubai Marina. This makes transportation to and around Dubai Airport hassle-free. Plus, with free public WiFi hotspots on the metro, you can continue your free connectivity from the Dubai Airport WiFi to downtown Dubai.
Fares for the Metro in Dubai are based on zones, and you’ll need a Nol Card to ride. A Silver Nol Card costs $6.81, which includes a $5.17 e-purse value. A one-way trip costs around $0.82 to $2.04, depending on the number of stops. Travel by metro is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience Dubai public transportation.
Getting around Dubai by tram
The Dubai Tram complements the Metro, offering connectivity in areas like Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina, and Al Sufouh. This public transport system easily connects with the Red Line of the Metro at various stations, including Damac Properties and DMCC, expanding your options for getting around Dubai.
If you’re on a budget and wondering, how much does it cost to go to Dubai, taking advantage of the tram system will help to lessen the financial load. Like the Metro, the Dubai Tram requires a Nol Card for travel, with fares costing around $0.82 to $1.36 per trip.
The tram is a great option for short distances, and highlights how efficient public transportation in Dubai can be – just remember your Nol Card and research how to dress in Dubai to ensure a smooth journey!
Getting around Dubai by taxi
For door-to-door air-conditioned convenience, a taxi in Dubai is a popular choice. The network of the Dubai taxi services, operated by the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority), are available city-wide, recognizable by their colorful roof trims highlighting each company’s name. Taxis can be located outside malls and hotels, easily hailed on the street, and right outside the airport.
The fare for a standard taxi is around $3.27 from 6 AM to 10 PM and between $3.27 from 10 PM to 6 AM, with a per-kilometer charge of around $0.50. A trip from Dubai International Airport to Downtown costs about $13.61 – $19.05. Wondering how to travel in Dubai with even greater comfort? Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also available and offer a range of vehicle choices. Fares are slightly higher than RTA taxis, and you’ll need an internet connection to book the ride – this is where a local Dubai SIM card can come in handy.
Getting around Dubai by car
Driving in Dubai gives freedom and flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist hubs or want to travel at your own pace. The city has well-maintained roads and clear signage, though traffic can be heavy during peak hours. Rental car agencies are also abundant at Dubai International Airport and throughout the city.
Renting a compact car can start from as little as $21.78 – $32.67 per day, while SUVs and luxury vehicles will cost more, depending on the model. Remember that visitors can typically drive with their (valid) international driving permit alongside their national driving license. Fuel prices in Dubai are relatively low compared to many Western countries, adding to the appeal of driving in Dubai. However, be aware of Salik (toll gates) on major highways, which automatically deduct a fee of $1.09 per pass from a prepaid tag linked to the rental car.
Getting around Dubai by bus
Dubai’s bus network is extensive. It reaches areas of the city not covered by the Metro or Tram, and offers cheap transportation in Dubai. The RTA operates a modern fleet of air-conditioned buses, making for a comfortable and cool journey even in the heat. Like the Metro and Tram, a Nol Card is needed for bus travel, with fares ranging from $0.82 to $2.04 per journey, depending on the zones crossed.
Bus stops are clearly marked and often equipped with air-conditioned shelters. While bus travel is slower than the Metro due to traffic, it provides a network for public transportation in Dubai that links residential areas with business districts and tourist attractions. And with the right travel guide for Dubai, you can discover some local gems. This is a great budget-friendly option if you want to know how to get around Dubai affordably.
Getting around Dubai by water taxi and abra
Embrace Dubai’s maritime heritage by boarding one of its water transport options. Water taxis, known as the Dubai Ferry, offer routes along the Dubai Creek, Dubai Canal, and the coastline. Water taxis connect various points including Dubai Marina, Al Ghubaiba, and Dubai Festival City. Fares vary depending on the route and class, and range from $4.08 to $13.61 for a single journey. These are not just modes of Dubai transportation but also offer fantastic sightseeing opportunities.
For a more traditional and affordable experience, hop aboard an Abra. These traditional wooden boats have been ferrying passengers across Dubai Creek for decades, connecting Bur Dubai and Deira. A single ride on an Abra costs just $0.27, making it the cheapest way to travel in Dubai. This classic form of transportation in Dubai offers a glimpse into the city’s past.
Use transport like a local in Dubai with a Holafly eSIM
Whether hopping on a bus, using the Dubai metro, or hailing a Dubai taxi, staying connected in the city is a must. Reliable internet access is needed to help you confirm bus schedules, book rideshares, or even check which is your stop.
A Holafly eSIM for Dubai helps you stay connected and avoid the hassle of searching for local Wi-Fi hotspots.
Will an Holafly eSIM you get:
- Unlimited data
- 24/7 customer support
- 500 MB of daily hotspot sharing
Pick the plan that best suits your trip, with prices as little as $22.90 for five days in Dubai. With Holafly, you choose peace of mind.
Book your transport as you land
Get your eSIM for Dubai, activate on arrival, and enjoy instant internet access.
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