Dubai at a Glance
Transportation in Dubai
Dubai has a modern public transport system, including two metro lines.
The Metro
Since 2009, the Roads and Transport Authority has been operating two different metro lines in Dubai, the red line and the green line. Those two lines take very different routes and stop at different destinations, offering people an alternative to the car. The fares are from AED 1.80 per journey. With special cabins for women and children, as well as a silver class and a gold class, the metro is a comfortable and modern way to commute.
Passengers pay their fares by purchasing a ticket, the Nol card. Nol cards come in 4 categories: red for a single journey, blue for personalized use, silver and gold. You can plan your journey by using RTA Wojhati (journey planner). It helps you to plan your route, taking not only the Dubai metro but also other public transport options into account.
Taxis and Buses
Aside from cars, taxis are the most popular mode of transportation in Dubai. You can catch a taxi in public places anywhere in Dubai or book in advance. An online booking and reservation service is available. Women who feel uncomfortable or unsafe with male drivers can book so-called “pink taxis” with female drivers.
An alternative to taxis are buses. Dubai’s bus services connect different residential, industrial and business districts. Passengers can also make use of night buses and inter-emirates buses. Only recently, Dubai has established air-conditioned bus stops to make waiting for the bus more comfortable for commuters.
As is the case with the metro, bus fares are paid by purchasing a Nol card before entering the bus. They are available at Dubai metro stations, several bus stations as well as RTA outlets. As Dubai is divided into 5 zones, fares range from AED 1.80 to AED 6.50 for one journey, depending on the destination.
Water Taxis and Abras
To travel on water or to cross the creek, you can use abras, traditional wooden boats with motors. The fare is AED 1 per passenger, which is to be paid to the driver in cash. They can also be hired to cruise the creek at about AED 100 for one hour or AED 30 for non-motorized abras. Commuters, however, often use water buses, operated by the RTA marine agency. There are four different routes for commuters at about AED 2 per person. Payment is made via the Nol card as well.
In addition, Dubai has launched a water taxi service in July 2010. Water taxis can transport up to 11 passengers and are equipped with ramp access, LCD screens, air-conditioned cabins and other luxuries. Unlike water buses and abras, they can leave the creek and navigate the waters of the gulf.
Water taxis connect many different locations, such as Deira Old Souq or Jebel Ali Hotel and Spa. They run from 10am to 10pm for fares from AED 50 (for a ride across the creek) to AED 570. Passengers have to book rides with the water taxi in advance by calling RTA or via their hotel service staff. The prize is agreed upon when the passenger makes the booking.
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