There are countless places to visit in Dubai, and you have various transportation options as a resident or tourist. You can use the Dubai Metro and bus, the most common forms of public transport, or hail a cab to aid your movement. 

Did you know that you can use other means of transport such as water taxis, Palm Monorail, the Tram, or helicopter or hire a taxi through the hail-riding app.? In this guide, we will explore all the transportation modes available in Dubai.

Dubai is always developing and introducing new choices for passengers making it easy to travel in the UAE. Travel operators like Arabiers can provide different means of transport depending on your budget and where you are visiting in the UAE.

Here are the several types of transport used in Dubai:

Bus

The Roads and Transport Authority oversees the Dubai bus system. These luxurious buses connect all the major attractions and landmarks in the city. Dubai buses run every 15 to 20 minutes except on Fridays when the frequency is a bit low, and the fare starts at Dh 2.  

You can also opt for the affordable Big Bus sightseeing tour, which visits all the major attractions and provides live commentary. The ride is also inclusive of free admission to the Dubai Museum and a dhow cruise. There are over 1,500 buses circulating the city, so it shouldn’t be hard to catch a ride. The waiting shed is well-ventilated with air-conditioners, so waiting for the bus is also a great experience.

Metro

The metro is one of the most common and structured modes of public transport in Dubai. With its two operational lines, the red and green lines, Dubai Metro holds the record for having the longest fully automated metro rail system in the world. It has carried millions of passengers since its introduction in 2009. You will need a Nol card to tap your metro fare. When you land at the Dubai International Airport, you can easily board the metro and visit the city’s famous landmarks, malls, and major attractions.

Taxi

Though a bit expensive, taxis are the most convenient way of moving around the city. Taxis are easily available in the city as you will find them on every corner and in long lines waiting outside shopping malls and other attractions. If you need a car urgently and can’t see one near you, call the RTA at 8009090 for a cab. The minimum wage for these well-maintained taxis is AED 12. Most taxis use cash payments, so you will not be able to use your Nol card here. 

Abra

Abra, a traditional boat made of wood, is an economical and preferred method to travel from Bur Dubai to Deira and back. Fares range from Dh 1 to DH 4, depending on the route you use. Riding an Abra is the original mode of transport in Dubai, traditionally used to cross the Dubai Creek. Traveling around the creek area with an Abra costs around AED 1 per ride. Riding the Abra is not only a tourist’ thing, as the residents still use it mostly along Old Dubai. There are Abras in Souk Madinat Jumeirah too.

Driving

You should have a credit card and a domestic and international driver’s license to hire a car in Dubai. Renting a car in Dubai is relatively easy as long as you have a valid credit card and an active international driver’s license. If you are not used to driving on the right side of the road, then driving in Dubai may be hard for you. Driving is not advisable in the city due to the numerous traffic congestions expected throughout the day.

Trams

Trams are the latest insertion to public transport in Dubai and are mostly located in Dubai Marina districts and in front of the Dubai Mall, the biggest mall in the world. Trams are immensely slow but also very convenient to move around these areas. Get a ticket at the tram station and hop on this ride to take in the beauty of Dubai. You do not need to purchase a ticket if you have a Nol card.

Water bus

The water taxi is the best alternative for those who feel that Abras are too risky. Despite them being extremely safe and air-conditioned, embrace the noise produced by these boats. Water buses are available in Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek, among other places, and are ideal for viewing a scenic background.

Wrapping up

Dubai provides a remarkable selection of transport modes to meet the needs of both Dubai residents and visitors. The city’s varied forms of transportation, which include the well-known metro system, opulent cabs, cutting-edge autonomous cars, and traditional Abras, ensure convenience, efficiency, and a completely distinctive travel experience for all.

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