Getting to and around Dubai

Getting to Dubai

Dubai has two world-class airports that provide thousands of international flights each week. Dubai International Airport (DXB) has been the gateway to the emirate since the first airstrip was developed in the 1960s – it is now one of the busiest airports on the planet. The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is part of the expansive Dubai South development, which will eventually span 6.7 million square kilometres, including real estate, leisure facilities and retail.

The vast majority of visitors will enter Dubai by plane, but you can also arrive via neighbouring countries easily by road. The UAE shares land borders with Saudi Arabia and Oman, and Gulf (GCC) residents can drive easily between them. Some of the busiest borders include Hatta and Al Ain, where adventure-seekers can get quick access to the Hajar Mountains, or take road trips on the outskirts of Dubai. Visitors from outside the region may have some visa restrictions, so please plan accordingly.

Cruise tourism in Dubai has thrived thanks to the Dubai Cruise Terminal, located at Mina Rashid, and Dubai Harbour at Dubai Marina. The luxurious ports are a great vantage point from which you can explore the emirate, equipped with plenty of facilities including restaurants and minimarts, plus free WiFi, seating and tour company outlets. There's even a complimentary shuttle service to selected shopping destinations and a paid shuttle service to Dubai Mall and Dubai International Airport.

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Getting around Dubai

The Dubai Metro has two convenient lines – red and green – that run from Dubai International Airport (DXB) and through the busiest areas of the city. It is the world’s largest driverless train system, offering comfortable seating, affordable prices and is fully air-conditioned. Simply buy a Nol card, keep it topped up, or grab a single-use ticket at your starting station.

Buses are a low-cost option to explore the city. You can hop on a bus at all of Dubai's airport terminals, with routes intersecting every major neighbourhood. They run 24-hours a day as often as every 30 minutes – just make sure to check your map to understand the extensive network. You should also buy a top-up Nol card in advance as bus drivers will not accept cash.

A range of Dubai taxi services are available from the RTA and you can grab a cab from almost anywhere in the city, or order one by phone or via a ride-hailing app such as Careem or Uber. Airport taxis will start from AED25 ($6.80), with clear signs pointing you towards the official pick-up area in any terminal.

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Cycling is a healthy way to get a different perspective on both the city and the desert. There's a growing number of urban bike paths and easy options to get around on two wheels, thanks to bike rental services at tourist hotspots, including Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina. Nextbike, Byky and Trek Bikes are popular companies to rent from, while Careem BIKE is the first large-scale, bike-sharing initiative in the region. In partnership with the city's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Careem BIKE makes it even easier to rent your ride via a dedicated smartphone app.

Dubai emerged as a pearl diving community so it's no surprise there are plenty of ways to travel by water. Options range from the affordable AED1 Dubai Creek crossing onboard a wooden abra to luxury yacht rental packages for huge parties and events. The RTA also offers convenient water taxis and the Dubai Ferry so visitors can tour the Dubai coastline and stop off at a number of neighbourhoods, including Jumeirah and Dubai Marina.

Motorised and e-scooters are becoming increasingly popular in neighbourhoods across Dubai, including the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard in Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, and Dubai Internet City. To unlock a scooter near you, download a licensed operator’s smartphone app – Careem, Tier, Skurtt, Arnab or Lime – available on the Apple Store and Google Play store.