Make life easy with these public transport apps in Dubai
Dubai, with its rapid development and cosmopolitan appeal, has built a world-class public transport network that caters to millions daily. For residents and visitors alike, relying on efficient and reliable transportation apps can make all the difference. The top public transport apps combine convenience, up-to-date information and diverse service options, ensuring everyone can get around seamlessly, whether for a daily commute or a sightseeing adventure.
Public Transport Apps in Dubai
From booking RTA taxis to tracking metro and bus schedules in real-time, let’s explore transport apps for Dubai commuters, featuring a mix of official and third-party options.
RTA Public Transport Dubai
No list of best apps for metro and buses in Dubai is complete without the Roads and Transport Authority mobile app. The official RTA app is a cornerstone among public transport smart apps in Dubai, providing commuters with the full spectrum of travel services. You can plan a route, check schedules for Dubai public transport, top up your NOL card or even pay your parking fees.
The interface is straightforward and service updates are regularly posted. This app is essential for both tourists and residents seeking efficient ways to navigate their surroundings.
S’hail
Commuters looking for a unified travel solution turn to S’hail, the all-in-one planner among Dubai Metro and bus apps. Whether you want to travel with Careem or want to book an Uber, the S’hail app smartly integrates the public transport e-services into one platform.
Additionally, it provides information on transport timings for the tram, Dubai Metro (red or green lines), and RTA buses, along with the option to book a taxi or a limousine. If you find yourself in situations where you are unsure whether to take a cab or the metro, S’hail can help you make a decision. Its real-time traffic updates help you avoid delays, making it one of the most reliable apps for navigating Dubai’s public transport.
Hala
Hala ranks among the top public transport apps in Dubai for anyone looking to book taxis quickly. Expect upfront fare estimates, real-time Captain details and flexible payment options, including card, cash or Careem credit. Booking is streamlined within the Careem app—simply select “Hala Taxi,” specify your pickup point and confirm. Notifications provide details on your Captain’s arrival, so you always know who to expect
- Types of Rides: Hala Taxi, Kids Hala and Hala Max
- Fare: Starting from AED 12
- Mode of Payment: Cash, credit/debit card, Careem and Apple Pay
DTC Smart App
Next on our list of public transport smart apps in Dubai is DTC Taxi. It provides customers with pre-booked taxi and limousine services. The DTC smart app is coordinated with the Reservation and Distribution Centre at the Public Transport Agency at the RTA and integrated with Dubai Taxi Corporation’s Control Centre.
The company offers an extensive range of transportation solutions across its four key business lines, including a fleet of eco-friendly taxi cars, chauffeured VIP limousines, bus services and bike delivery services.
These easy-to-spot red taxis with ads are available 24/7 throughout the city and even cover travel to other emirates. You can flag them down safely on the street or book them through popular apps like S’hail and Careem.
- Types of Rides: Airport taxi, ladies taxi, people of determination taxi, Limousine rental and many more
- Fare: Starting from AED 12
- Mode of Payment: Cash, credit/debit card and NOL card
Careem
Careem remains a leader among the top public transport apps for private ride bookings. Easily access taxis, limousines or standard cars with scheduling flexibility—choose to ride now or plan ahead. The interface provides all the necessary details, including driver information, real-time location tracking, GPS navigation, and fare estimates. Multilingual support enhances accessibility, making it one of the best tourist apps in Dubai.
- Types of Rides: Hala taxis, Comfort, Executive and Max
- Fare: Starting from AED 12 for a taxi
- Mode of Payment: Cash, credit/debit card, Careem and Apple Pay
UBER UAE
Uber offers several ride categories, including economy, premium and eco-friendly options. The app is ideal for those seeking convenience, especially at airports or late at night. Uber UAE also supports fare-splitting and provides fare estimates in advance.
With multi-language support and secure payment options, it’s widely used across Dubai. Although not directly tied to RTA services, it complements the official public transport smart apps in Dubai by filling in the gaps for flexible travel.
- Types of Rides: Uber Taxi, Green Intercity, UberX Intercity, Lux Intercity and more
- Fare: Starting from AED 15
- Mode of Payment: Cash, credit/debit card, Uber Cash and Google Pay
Can’t decide which ride-hailing service to choose? Compare our side-by-side comparison of Uber, Careem and Taxi to find the best fit.
Disclaimer: Rates mentioned are subject to change based on peak hours and the distance travelled.
FAQS
Is there an official app for Dubai public transport?
Yes, the RTA Dubai app is the official platform. It includes schedules, a Dubai taxi calculator, NOL card services, and route planning across all modes of public transport, including metro, tram, bus, marine and taxis.
Which ride-hailing apps in Dubai allow booking of RTA taxis directly?
You can book RTA taxis directly through the DTC Smart App. Additionally, Careem offers Hala Taxi bookings in partnership with the RTA. Both apps connect users to safe and reliable city-wide taxi services.
WHAT ARE THE BEST AREAS TO LIVE IN DUBAI IF YOU DON’T DRIVE?
Deira, Business Bay, Al Karama and Al Barsha rank among the most convenient residential areas in Dubai for non-drivers.
And that’s a wrap to the best public transport apps in Dubai. Smart, feature-rich and always reliable, these apps power a city that never stops moving.
New to the city? Rental flats near Dubai Metro stations are ideal for quick commutes and easy access to the city’s top spots.
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