Quick Jumplinks to Navigate
Exploring Dubai is easier than you think, as you do not need a car to see it all. The city’s world-class public transport links futuristic attractions with traditional gems. The Dubai Metro takes you across major landmarks, while trams connect the coastline.
Buses reach almost every neighbourhood, and a one-dirham abra ride lets you glide across Dubai Creek. Also, water taxis, water buses, and the Palm Monorail, plus eco-friendly bikes as well as scooters, ensure that you never run out of ways to travel during your Dubai trip.
With so many affordable and convenient choices, moving around Dubai feels effortless and fun. So, here are some of the best ways to experience Dubai using only public transport.
1. Dubai Metro
Dubai Metro was launched on 09/09/09 and is a driverless train system which is managed by the RTA and covers 50 stations across two lines. The Red Line connects Rashidiya to UAE Exchange along Sheikh Zayed Road, which links major attractions, while the Green Line runs from Etisalat to Creek, which serves residential areas.
You can buy tickets or use Nol Cards (Red for short-term, Silver for frequent travel), which also work on buses, trams, and taxis. These trains run every few minutes from early morning until midnight. Moreover, cabins are divided into Gold, Silver, and Women & Children, which makes the metro a reliable way to explore Dubai, especially during a Dubai trip with family.
2. Public Buses
Dubai’s RTA bus network fills the gaps where the metro does not reach, which makes it essential for exploring the city affordably. With 193 routes, 1,500 stations, and 30 million weekly riders, it connects residential neighbourhoods, business districts, and tourist areas. All buses and most stops are air-conditioned with TVs, which ensure comfort even in summer.
Moreover, routes are colour-coded, with the night buses running from 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM, so travel is possible anytime. You can only make payments through your Nol Card, which involves just swiping when boarding. The public buses are reliable, economical, and available citywide, which makes discovering Dubai’s hidden corners possible.
3. Taxis and ride-sharing services
If you want door-to-door travel, taxis and ride-sharing services offer the quickest and most convenient way to get around Dubai. With a base fare of AED 12 (INR 285.2), RTA taxis are available citywide, and you can also call 8009090 if one is not available nearby. They are also It is easy to spot because the colours indicate their meanings: red light means occupied, while yellow light means available.
The taxis also remain the safest option at night from 11 PM to 4 AM, even though fares can rise. Moreover, Uber and Careem operate seamlessly across the city for added comfort or last-minute rides. While pricier than the metro or bus, taxis ensure fast, flexible, and reliable travel anywhere in Dubai.
4. Water Bus & Water Taxi
Water buses and water taxis let you explore Dubai without traffic while letting you enjoy views of the city’s coastline and skyline. The water buses follow fixed routes along Dubai Creek and Marina, while water taxis can be chartered for private, point-to-point travel. With over 40 stations across the famous places in Dubai like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Creek, you can reach hotels, malls, and beaches directly by water.
You can pay fares using Nol Cards for buses, while taxis charge by distance. You can enjoy a smooth ride owing to the fully air-conditioned cabins and comfortable seating as well as the large windows of the water buses and taxis. For small groups, water taxis can also fit up to 10 passengers with privacy.
5. The Dubai Tram
The Dubai Tram is one of the most reliable ways to move around Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and Al Sufouh. It runs through some of the busiest and most attractive areas, which make it easy for both daily commuters and tourists to travel without traffic.
The tram is fully linked with the Dubai Metro and Palm Monorail, so you can switch between systems without hassle. You can also pay for the tickets using the Nol Card, which makes the process simple and cashless.
With air-conditioned coaches and frequent services, the Dubai Tram is the best public transport option in Marina and nearby districts, as it is fast enough to skip road traffic.
6. Palm Monorail
The Palm Monorail runs on an elevated track along Palm Jumeirah which starts from Gateway Station and ends at Atlantis Aquaventure. It connects you directly to the most famous attractions of Dubai which include stops at Nakheel Mall, Al Ittihad Park, and The Pointe. You can also buy the tickets for the monorail online or at kiosks, which makes the access quick and hassle-free.
Unlike the metro or tram, the monorail presents you with sweeping views of the Palm, the coastline, and iconic landmarks. It also saves you from traffic, is affordable and eco-friendly, and drops you right at the heart of popular destinations.
7. Electric Scooters & Bicycles
Bikes and e-scooters in Dubai are one of the best public transport options, as they are cheap and let you reach attractions quickly. With rental apps like Skurtt, Tier, and Careem BIKE, you can book a ride in seconds using your phone.
Dedicated tracks, such as the Al Qudra Desert Track, Dubai Water Canal, and Jumeirah Beach, make cycling safe and enjoyable. Scooters in Downtown, Business Bay, and JLT help cover short distances easily, which connect you to metro and tram stations. In addition, they also offer you the flexibility to stop at landmarks like Dubai Marina or Jumeirah Beach without having to worry about parking, making this one of the most fun things to do in Dubai.
Conclusion
Exploring Dubai only with public transport is easy and smart. The Dubai Metro takes you to some of the top spots, like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Marina. Water taxis, on the other hand, let you cross Dubai Creek in minutes, while buses connect you to almost every part of the city.
The bikes and scooters let you enjoy short rides while adding a touch of fun. When you use public transport, you not only save money but also avoid parking stress and travel in an eco-friendly manner. Moreover, you also get to see the city from a local’s view. So, hop on a metro or bus, and experience Dubai in the most effortless way.