A newbie's guide to Dubai’s public transport systems

Just moved in?

You might be still figuring out how to get around the sandpit we all love and call home then, but you might not know that it’s a little too easy to get around Dubai than a lot of us might have thought!

So, if you are planning to move from one end to the other, you know you can trust us to help you get around - here’s your newbie guide to Dubai’s public transport systems!

Oh, and we’ll also help you understand:

• How to use Dubai metro on the red and green lines.
• What a NOL card is.
• How to cross Dubai Creek on a water taxi
• Travelling around Dubai by taxi, tram and monorail
• How to get from Dubai International Airport on arrival

Let’s get right into it…

1. Dubai Taxis

Dubai taxis are the main mode of transport across Dubai and one of the oldest, it’s a reliable and cost-effective means of transport that we all love!

With regulated fares, they are especially budget-friendly for families or groups. Hailing a taxi is easy – just look for the illuminated sign, and if it's yellow, you've spotted a Dubai Taxi. Alternatively, you can reserve one in advance on Careem too - Just download the app and click Hala Taxi!

Typical fares for Dubai Taxi range from:

• Dubai Creek to Burj Khalifa: AED 33 (Approx. £6.88) | 18 minutes
• Dubai Mall to Burj Al Arab: AED 42.50 (Approx. £8.86) | 19 minutes
• The Beach to Mall of The Emirates: AED 33 (Approx. £6.88) | 19 minutes

Top tip: Fares are usually much higher and begin at AED 12 during peak hours. Also, if you are crossing a toll gate fares increase by AED 4 (per toll)

2. Dubai Metro

For longer journeys, the Dubai Metro is your go-to option. And, if you are on the saving spree, then nothing beats a AED 3 ride around town!

It runs on two lines (red & green), and the metro covers major destinations like Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and the airport, being directly accessible.

Typical fares for Dubai Metro range from:

If you purchase a one-way ticket, prices vary from AED 12-22 depending on the location you are heading to. But we recommend getting a NOL card which helps you top up and travel through all the zones and lines.

A NOL card will cost you AED 25 (fully redeemable) and then you can continue topping it up as you go. There are two cards, silver and gold - with fare prices starting at AED 3 for silver and AED 6 for gold.

Check out our metro map here!

3. Dubai Tram

The Dubai Tram is a smaller, street friendly way of commuting through the Al Sufouh Road and connects seamlessly with the Dubai Metro.

The operational hours are between 06:00 am and 01:00 am, it's a quick and scenic way to explore Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence.

Typical fares for Dubai Metro range from:

Fares start at AED 3, payable with a NOL card. Gold Class fare at AED 6 is available during peak hours.

4. Dubai Bus

Dubai's bus network is possibly one of the most seamless ways of getting around. Buses cover major neighbourhoods, including destinations not reached by the metro and all that are, plus Dubai Buses are always around other republic transport systems so you can hop abroad easily.

Payment is also through the NOL card, and the first three rows are always reserved for women and families. So, be respectful!

Tip: Inspectors conduct random checks, so ensure you have a valid NOL card to avoid fines.

5. Palm Jumeirah Monorail

Ever imagined travelling on an island by monorail? Yeah, you can find that in Dubai only!

The Palm Monorail is a unique experience. Starting at the Gateway Station and ending at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, it goes in one direction only with breathtaking views over the island and operates every 15 minutes.

Fares: AED 30 for a round trip (AED 20 for a single trip)

6. Dubai Marina Water Bus

If you thought the tram was enough to get you around the Al Sufouh and Dubai Marina area, then you’re in for another treat!

For a picturesque journey around Dubai Marina, the Water Bus is a comfortable and air-conditioned choice. It's a delightful way to move between Marina Walk, Dubai Marina Mall, and Marina Promenade.

Fares range from AED 3 to AED 11, depending on the route you choose.

7. Dubai Creek Water Taxi - Abra

Want to experience Dubai's history with a ride?

Hop on a traditional wooden Abra across Dubai Creek. For AED 1, you can cross from Bur Dubai to Deira old market Abra station, savouring the city's vibrant past.

This is by far our most favourite way of getting around the city!

Hope this helps!

And since you’re new to Dubai, check out our newbie guide on things you should know - click here!

Until then, check out some of our live listings in the city to help you find that perfect home!