How do you get around in Dubai?

Getting Around on Foot in Dubai

You’ll quickly realize that it’s difficult to get around on foot in Dubai. Sidewalks are often nonexistent, and above all, there are wide avenues with heavy traffic to cross.

In addition, you may find yourself walking in intense heat, even in winter, which is obviously not recommended. 

Of course, you can enjoy Dubai on foot in certain neighborhoods such as Deira or Bur Dubai which are the city’s historic neighborhoods and much better suited for exploring on foot. We also loved walking along the Dubai Marina and heading to Bluewater Island to ride the Ain Dubai.

Getting Around Dubai by Car

As you can see, the easiest way to get around is by car. As a tourist in Dubai, you have several options.

Taking a Taxi or an Uber in Dubai

This is definitely THE method we recommend. In fact, it’s a very affordable way to get around (contrary to what you might think): you’ll never pay more than €20. And best of all, you’ll have no trouble finding one.

For example, when leaving the beach, you’ll see lines forming to get into taxis. We were quite surprised to see this, but it really is a very convenient way to get around.

It really is a great way to get around in Dubai. However, just like with cars, you may get stuck in traffic during rush hour. Keep in mind that you won’t be the only one waiting for a taxi, and the wait time can vary.

Rent a Car in Dubai

Car rental in Dubai is fairly inexpensive and will cost you no more than €30 per day on average. This can be a good option, especially if you plan to visit other cities in the United Arab Emirates, such as Abu Dhabi.

Please note: To rent a car in Dubai, you must present an international driver’s license.

The downside of driving is that you can very easily get stuck in traffic , especially during rush hour. This is one of the consequences of the widespread use of cars in Dubai. So be prepared to allow a little more time than expected for your trips.

Getting Around by Public Transportation in Dubai 

Naturally, public transportation is the most economical way to get around Dubai. You can choose between the metro, the bus, or the tram. 

The metro in Dubai is very easy to understand and use. There are only two metro lines. They mainly run from north to south. This is convenient for traveling from one end of the city to the other, but less so if you want to cross from east to west.
Metro stations serve major tourist attractions such as Mall of the Emirates or Burj Khalifa.

The bus system is very extensive, with 119 routes. The bus stops are also air-conditioned shelters, allowing you to wait in the cool rather than in direct sunlight. But as in all major cities, the bus system can sometimes be confusing. Furthermore, just like when driving, you may sometimes find yourself stuck in traffic even while on the bus. 

The tram, on the other hand, has only one line. It runs through southern Dubai and connects the Jumeirah Beach and Dubai Marina neighborhoods. It’s a good option for visiting those neighborhoods. But of course, you’ll need to use another mode of transportation for the rest of the city.
To reach Palm Jumeirah by public transit, you’ll need to take the monorail.

Metro fares are based on zones. The farther you go, the higher the price. But don’t worry—even if you travel through all three zones, the fare remains very affordable. Expect to pay between 4 and 8 AED, or between 1 and 2 €, per trip.

You can also purchase a NOL card—the city’s transit pass—for a week or several days to save some money.

Getting Around by Abra or Water Bus

Dubai is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf. One of the available modes of transportation is therefore by boat: either by Abra or by Water Bus.

Getting Around by Abra

The Abra is a traditional boat that allows you to cross the Dubai Creek—the inlet that separates the Deira district from the rest of the city to the north. This is an affordable and unique way to reach this part of the city. The fare is 2 AED (that’s just 50 cents!).

There are about 150 abras in service, so you’ll have no trouble catching one! We highly recommend it—not only is it a great way to get around, but it’s also a really fun and picturesque experience.

Getting Around by Water Bus

The Water Bus is very similar to the Abra. It can take you from one side of the Dubai Marina to the other. These boats are much more luxurious, with larger, more comfortable seats. Fares are a bit higher but still very affordable: between 3 and 4 AED (between 70 cents and 1.20 euros).

Our Tips for Getting Around Dubai

As you can see, there isn’t just one right way to get around Dubai. The best approach is to combine different modes of transportation depending on the neighborhood, the time of day, how tired you are, and the weather.

Some neighborhoods can be explored on foot, but to get from one place to another, it’s best to use public transportation or a taxi, depending on your budget.

Finally, we recommend taking an abra at least once ! It’s an experience in its own right and is typical of Dubai.