All you need to know about the Dubai Ferry

• About
• Features
• FAQs

Over the past couple of decades, Dubai has transformed into a tourism hub and a regional business hub. With the tremendous influx of tourists and expats seeking employment and business opportunities, one could expect traffic congestion to become a significant issue. However, authorities in Dubai have worked hard to improve transport infrastructure, focusing on a strong, friendly network. Launched in 2019, Dubai Ferry has made the city’s transport more manageable and tourist-friendly.

All about the Dubai Ferry

Usually, the word ferry refers to a boat, and it is a regular means of transport for the local population. However, the Dubai Ferry is more of a tourist attraction. The Dubai Ferry route, as designed by the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority), passes through areas of interest to tourists. The ferry runs between the same station on each trip, with each trip lasting about 60 or 90 minutes.

It is an excellent addition to the list of tourist attractions in Dubai. It enables tourists to get a good view of the beautiful coastline of Dubai on a short tour. This is a complete guide for those who plan to take a Dubai Ferry tour. 

On-route Tourist Attractions 

You can witness the most popular spots of Dubai, including the Burj Al Arab and the Palm Jumeirah, on the Dubai Ferry. You can marvel at their magnificence from the boat or hop off at a station and catch another ferry later. 

Burj Al Arab

A globally recognised iconic structure, Burj Al Arab is a major tourist attraction. This luxurious hotel was designed to resemble the sail of a ship. There are many activities to do in Burj Al Arab, including water sports, spa rituals and fine dining, etc. And to enjoy them thoroughly, you have to stay at the hotel for a period. If you don’t have time, you can get up close to this wonderful building during a Dubai Ferry tour.

The Palm Jumeirah 

The Palm Jumeirah is a wonderland on its own. Visit this magical eighth wonder of the world and enjoy amazing entertainment and leisure activities. You can visit some renowned restaurants in Palm Jumeirah or relax your body and mind with a session at one of the many top spas in Palm Jumeirah. Take the morning ferry and spend a day at this incredible place and be back by dinner time. 

The Atlantis Hotel

Be it Hollywood stars or top athletes, the Atlantis hotel has captured the imagination of one and all. Most would remember its launch party attended by Kylie Minogue, Lindsay Lohan, Michael Jordan, Denzel Washington, Robert De Niro and other celebrities. Once you’re done with the ferry tour, you can plan a detailed visit to the other attractions in this iconic resort. You can opt for Atlantis Helicopter tours or explore the Atlantis Lost Chambers Aquarium. 

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is the heart of old Dubai. As a tourist, one has to visit the city to appreciate its rich heritage and culture. This city isn’t just about skyscrapers and glamour. Dubai Creek presents a different and more realistic picture. 

Dubai Marina Mall

During your trip, it might be a good idea to have lunch or dinner at least once at Dubai Marina Mall. Several cafes and restaurants offer sumptuous meals and snacks, plus the view makes it worth visiting.

Al Ghubaiba

The popular financial and business district of Dubai is also home to the largest station. It is one of the few central transportation hubs where the Dubai Metro, public buses and marine transport modes integrate. If you are planning to do some shopping after or before your ferry ride, the City Centre Shindaga is located nearby. 

Dubai Ferry Features

Total seats per Ferry

• Silver class: 84
• Gold class: 14
• Disabled seats: 2

Kiosk on board

You can buy souvenirs and snacks from the onboard kiosks.

Nahaam (Video displays)

Educational videos are played as per the location. These videos have information about the prominent attractions in that particular area.

Entertainment services

4 LCDs for entertainment

* Round-trip ferries run with at least ten people on board 

FAQs

How many Dubai Ferry stations are there?

There are a total of five operational stations. One can find Dubai Ferry stations at the following locations. 

• Marina Mall Marine Transport Station
• Bluewater Marine Transport Station
• Al Ghubaiba Terminal
• Dubai Canal Marine Transport Station

What are the Dubai Ferry timings & routes?

Timetable and routes are as follows:

• Route: Marina to Al Ghubaiba (Every Day)
  • 01:00 pm – Dubai Marina
  • 01.20 pm – BlueWaters
  • 02.25 pm – Dubai Canal
  • 03.10 pm – Al Ghubaiba

• Route: Marina to Al Ghubaiba (Every Day)
  • 06:00 pm – Dubai Marina
  • 06.20 pm – BlueWaters
  • 07.25 pm – Dubai Canal
  • 08.10 pm – Ghubaiba

• Route: Al Ghubaiba to Marina (Every Day)
  • 01:00 pm – Al Ghubaiba
  • 01.50 pm – Dubai Canal
  • 02.55 pm – BlueWaters
  • 03.10 pm – Marina
• Route: Al Ghubaiba Round Trip
  • 04.30 pm – Al Ghubaiba (One hour round trip)
• Route: Dubai Marina Round Trip (Every Day)
  • 11.30 am – Dubai Marina (One hour round trip)
  • 04.30 pm – Dubai Marina (One hour round trip)
• Route: Al Ghubaiba to Sharjah
  • Monday to Thursday
    • Leaves at 07:45 am, arrives at 08.20 am
    • Leaves at 10:00 am, arrives at 10:35 am
    • Leaves at 04:00 pm, arrives at 04:35 pm
    • Leaves at 05:30 pm, arrives at 06:05 pm
    • Leaves at 07:00 pm, arrives at 07:35 pm
  • Friday to Sunday
    • Leaves at 03:00 pm, arrives at 03:35 pm
    • Leaves at 05:00 pm, arrives at 05:35 pm
    • Leaves at 08:00 pm, arrives at 08.35 pm
    • Leaves at 10:00 pm, arrives at 10.35 pm
• Route: Sharjah to Al Ghubaiba

* Before your journey, check the Dubai Ferry timings on the official website for confirmation. The Dubai Ferry schedule is subject to change during peak season. 

How much does a Dubai Ferry ticket cost?

Dubai Ferry Tickets are available in two classes: Gold Class and Silver Class. With a gold class ticket, you can have a seat towards the front of the ferry. With the Silver class, you have access to the open deck. Both experiences are equally delightful. You can choose as per your preference of comfort and the Dubai Ferry price.

* For ticket-related or any other queries, you can contact customer services at +971-800-9090.

Where to buy Dubai ferry tickets?

You can buy Dubai Ferry tickets at the ticket booths located adjacent to the ferry departure points. You can also purchase tickets via the official RTA website.

Passengers can also pay via the Nol card.

CAN I TRAVEL TO ANY OTHER EMIRATE VIA THE FERRY?

Yes, the Dubai to Sharjah Ferry is a cheap and fast way to travel between the two emirates.

Can I book tickets in advance? 

Yes, some category tickets can be bought a month (30 days) in advance for the ferry ride to Dubai.

DO CHILDREN GET A DISCOUNTED TICKET?

Kids under 5 travel for free. Anyone aged 5 or above have to pay for the full ticket.

Can I get any discounts?

Emirates NBD Go4It Credit Card Holders can get a free ride on the ferry boat Dubai. For more details, contact your bank representatives. 

CAN I BUY SNACKS ON THE FERRY?

Yes, a limited selection of snacks are available.

Can I book the Ferry for a private tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour on an hourly rental charter package. For more details, call the Dubai Ferry contact number +971-800-9090.

Dubai Ferry is a wonderful and affordable way to explore this splendid city. You can witness some of the most popular tourist attractions and you can cover a large part of the city in a single day. If you plan to visit Dubai soon, check out some new attractions in Dubai or even places to visit at night in Dubai.

If you wish to enjoy the waters the old school way, travelling via the Abras in Dubai is a joyful experience.