Complete guide to public transport in Dubai
Dubai’s public transport system is one of the most advanced in the region, offering residents and visitors a convenient, affordable and efficient way to navigate the city. From the driverless Dubai Metro and Tram network to extensive bus services, marine transport and easy-to-use taxis, the city ensures smooth connectivity across all major areas.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring landmarks or a commuter heading to work, understanding how Dubai’s public transport works can save you both time and money. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating Dubai with ease.
MODES OF DUBAI PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK
Dubai’s public transport, operated by RTA Dubai, connects the city with safe and efficient travel options. This network ensures that both residents and tourists can travel between destinations with ease and comfort. Below is a detailed overview of the various modes of transportation available.
Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is the most efficient and popular mode of public transport in the city. Known for being fully automated, it ensures a swift journey for all users. The current network operates two main lines: the Red Line and the Green Line.
The Red Line runs along Sheikh Zayed Road, connecting the Dubai International Airport (DXB) and major hubs like the Dubai Marina. The Green Line serves the older, historical districts of Deira and Bur Dubai. Additionally, Route 2020 is an extension of the Red Line that ends at Expo City Dubai.
Looking ahead, the network is set to expand with the Blue Line, approved for operation by 2029, which will link growing residential areas such as International City and Dubai Silicon Oasis with the existing Red and Green Lines.
Fares are determined by a zone-based system and paid exclusively using the Nol Card. Riders must tap the card both upon entry and exit. Many metro stations offer seamless connections to the Dubai Tram and feeder buses, ensuring complete connectivity across the emirate.
Dubai Tram
The Dubai Tram complements the metro network by providing essential connectivity in key coastal areas. It primarily serves the bustling districts of Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Al Sufouh. The tram is fully integrated with the Dubai Metro, featuring two direct interchange stations: Sobha Realty and DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre).
The entire 11-km route utilises a catenary-free system, enhancing urban aesthetics. Like all RTA services, payment is handled solely by the Nol Card. A unique feature of the Dubai Tram is its status as the world’s first tramway to use platform screen doors in stations and to comply with the rule of stopping at road intersections.
Public Bus
Dubai’s RTA Bus network offers the most comprehensive geographical coverage, reaching approximately 82% of the urban areas. The city has a large, modern fleet of more than 1,500 buses across an extensive network of 119 internal lines.
This network includes 35 lines specifically linking to metro stations, 12 intercity lines connecting to other emirates, 62 internal lines serving local areas and 8 fast lines for rapid transit. Payment for all journeys is mandatory using the Nol Card. You can rely on the RTA’s S’hail app to check real-time routes, schedules and estimated travel times.
Taxis
Dubai taxis are another popular mode of public transport in Dubai. They offer a reliable and regulated transport option, with specific liveries for speciality vehicles, such as pink-trimmed taxis driven by female captains for women and families. Taxis can be hailed directly on the street, while fares are metered and regulated by the RTA to ensure transparent pricing. Payment can typically be made using cash, credit/debit card or the Nol Card.
Ride Hailing Apps
Ride-hailing apps provide quick, pre-booked rides with upfront fare estimates. Careem and Uber are the two dominant platforms. These apps integrate with the RTA by offering the Hala service, which allows users to book standard RTA Taxis instantly through the app and often provides the quickest pick-up times. These apps allow users to choose from various vehicle classes, track their ride in real-time and pay seamlessly using cash or credit/debit cards.
Marine
Dubai’s Marine Transport system provides scenic and essential connections across Dubai Creek and the Marina area. The primary options include the traditional Abras, the modern Dubai Ferry and Dubai Water Taxis. The marine stations are integrated with the Metro and tram networks.
This mode of transport is essential for commuters and tourists exploring the historical areas of Deira and Bur Dubai or enjoying the views along the modern Marina waterways. All marine transport services accept Nol Card for payment.
DUBAI PUBLIC TRANSPORT APPS
There are several Dubai public transport apps to help residents and visitors navigate the city’s extensive public transport network and related services. These apps streamline planning, payment and overall travel experience.
RTA Dubai App
The RTA Dubai app is the official all-in-one platform through which users can manage their Nol card, pay for on-street and off-street parking and handle Salik toll gate accounts with ease. For daily travel needs, the app lets you book taxis, find nearby RTA service centres, kiosks and toll gates using the built-in location finder and get instant support through the Mahboub chatbot.
S’hail App
S’hail is RTA’s official journey planner app, through which users can find the best routes for metro, tram, buses, marine transport, taxis, ride-hailing services and even cycling. It also supports multi-modal travel, suggesting the fastest or most cost-effective routes by combining different transport methods, such as switching from the metro to a bus.
Nol Pay App
With the Nol Pay app, users can instantly recharge their Nol card, check balances on the go, and review their complete transaction and trip history. For added convenience, the app supports NFC-enabled top-ups.
Alongside the official RTA apps, several third-party platforms play a key role in making transportation in Dubai more convenient. Careem and Uber are the region’s most popular ride-hailing apps, allowing users to book Hala Taxis (RTA-approved taxis with standard fares) directly through their platforms.
For those relying on public transport, Google Maps is widely used for planning trips across the Metro, tram and bus network, with real-time schedule and route data sourced from RTA.
DUBAI PUBLIC TRANSPORT FARES
Dubai’s public transport network is divided into seven fare zones, covering the metro, tram, bus and marine stations. The fare you pay depends on the number of zones crossed during your journey, making the system fair and easy to understand.
To travel, commuters use the Nol Card, a contactless smart card that works across all modes of transport. Simply tap to check in and check out each time you ride. Dubai offers various types of Nol cards, each providing a range of services and additional benefits. Transfers between transport modes, such as moving from the Metro to a tram, or from a bus to the Metro, are allowed within 30 minutes and are counted as a single trip.
For regular travellers, a personal Nol Card is a great option. It offers discounts of up to 50% for students, senior citizens and residents. Ticket prices vary based on the type of Nol Card used, the number of zones crossed and the class of service chosen.
Length of Journey | Silver Card | Gold Card | Personal Card | Red Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Length of Journey Within 1 Zone | Silver Card AED 3 | Gold Card AED 6 | Personal Card AED 3 | Red Ticket AED 4 |
Length of Journey 2 Adjacent Zones | Silver Card AED 5 | Gold Card AED 10 | Personal Card AED 5 | Red Ticket AED 6 |
Length of Journey More than 2 Zones | Silver Card AED 7.5 | Gold Card AED 15 | Personal Card AED 7.5 | Red Ticket AED 8.5 |
It’s essential to note that the fares mentioned apply only to the Dubai Metro, Tram and Public RTA Bus. Taxis, ride-hailing apps and the Dubai Ferry have separate fare structures.
RULES FOR USING RTA PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN DUBAI
Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and well-organised, but passengers are expected to follow certain rules and etiquette while travelling within the city.
Rule / Etiquette | Fine |
|---|---|
Rule / Etiquette Smoking is banned on the Metro, trams, buses and marine transport to ensure a clean and safe environment | Fine AED 200 |
Rule / Etiquette Passengers must not cause noise, arguments or distractions while using public transport | Fine AED 100 |
Rule / Etiquette Using an expired or invalid Nol card when travelling on Dubai public transport | Fine AED 200 |
Rule / Etiquette Attempting to use a fake or counterfeit Nol card while commuting | Fine AED 500 |
Rule / Etiquette To maintain cleanliness, passengers are not allowed to place their feet on the seats | Fine AED 100 |
Rule / Etiquette Animals are not permitted on public transport, except guide dogs for visually impaired passengers | Fine AED 100 |
Rule / Etiquette Food and drinks are not allowed in metro cars, trams or restricted bus areas | Fine AED 100 |
By following these simple rules, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free ride on Dubai’s public transport.
FAQS ABOUT PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN DUBAI
How to go from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by public transport?
You can travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi using the intercity RTA buses that operate daily. The main route is the E100 bus from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station or the E101 bus from Ibn Battuta Metro Station, both go directly to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and costs approximately AED 34.
How much does public transport cost in Dubai?
Dubai’s public transport fares depend on the number of zones travelled. With a Nol card, fares start from AED 3 for short trips within one zone and go up to AED 7.50 for crossing multiple zones. The Nol card is valid across the Dubai Metro, trams, buses, and even marine transport, making it a cost-effective and convenient option.
How to reach Dubai Parks by public transport from Sharjah?
From Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah, take an intercity bus of Route E308 to Stadium Bus Station in Dubai and connect to the Dubai Metro Red Line. Travel to Ibn Battuta Metro Station, then catch the dedicated RTA shuttle bus to Dubai Parks and Resorts. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
How to get from Dubai to Musandam by public transport?
There is no direct public transport from Dubai to Musandam. The easiest way is to take a bus from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, where the RAKTA international buses operate services to Musandam.
How to get to Dubai Autodrome by public transportation from Ajman?
From Ajman, you can travel to Dubai using two main intercity bus routes, the E400 and E411. Once you arrive in Dubai, hop on the Dubai Metro Red Line and get off at Mall of the Emirates Metro Station. From there, you can take a taxi or RTA feeder bus to reach Dubai Autodrome in Motor City. The entire trip takes around 2 hours and offers a much cheaper alternative compared to travelling only by car or taxi.
How can visitors in Dubai use public transport?
Visitors in Dubai can use public transport by purchasing a Nol card, which is available at metro stations, bus terminals and convenience stores. This smart card can be used across the metro, trams, buses and marine transport.
What is the cheapest way to travel around Dubai without a car?
The most affordable way is to use RTA buses and the Dubai Metro with an Nol Card. A single journey can cost as little as AED 3, making public transport in Dubai one of the most budget-friendly options.
What are Dubai’s plans for expanding public transport?
Dubai’s future public transport expansion, led by the RTA, is focused on rail growth and futuristic mobility. Key plans include the construction of the new Dubai Metro Blue Line, flying taxis, Trackless Trams and the high-speed Etihad Rail network.
Is public transport closed tomorrow in Dubai?
Dubai’s public transport, operated by the RTA, generally operates daily without interruption. However, timings may change during public holidays, religious events, or special occasions. Always check the official RTA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules.
When is Public Transport Day in Dubai?
Public Transport Day in Dubai is celebrated annually on November 1st, organised by the RTA to encourage residents and visitors to use sustainable means of transportation and reduce their reliance on private cars.
That concludes our comprehensive guide to public transportation in Dubai. We hope this helps you navigate the city with ease, whether you’re a resident or a visitor. For families, the RTA has also introduced Hubun, a dedicated service with women-driven taxis for safer and more comfortable travel.
If you’re planning a trip to the UAE’s capital, be sure to explore the Abu Dhabi public transport options for a hassle-free journey. For intercity travel, you can also check Sharjah bus routes and timings to move easily between emirates. With continuous investments and upcoming projects, the UAE is rapidly modernising its transport infrastructure, making travel more efficient, comfortable and accessible. Stay tuned for the latest updates to enjoy even smoother journeys nationwide.
Featured Image Credit: Emaar Properties (Official Website)
