transfer dubai

Dubai Airport Transfers and Transit

By Dom Bewley

Picture the scene, if you will. You've booked your trip to Dubai, and you're excited. Looking forward to the warm weather and sunny days, you pack your bag with all your summer bits. You board the plane, eager for the long trip to be over so you can step into the desert oasis that is Dubai. You wake just as the pilot announces that your journey is nearly over. The wheels hit the tarmac, and your heart skips a beat. It's finally time.

Image of Aircraft, Airplane, Vehicle,

But when you finally get through security and leave the airport, this feeling washes over you. You brush it off at first; surely it's just nerves bundled with excitement? You head to a bus stop, but you can't read the listings. You open your GPS app, and you're having trouble connecting. The world begins to close in on you, choking you with all its sunny goodness. What if you never find your hotel? What if you're stuck here, on the cusp of paradise, doomed never to see Dubai in all its glory? Just like that movie with Tom Hanks, where he hangs out in an airport for years.

Image of Prison, Adult, Male, Man, Person,

Airport jail, probably

Now imagine none of this happened, because you booked an airport transfer weeks ago, and your driver's here to greet you with a smile and some sweet aviator shades. Feeling like a diplomat, or someone of equal import, you shimmy into the backseat of an air-conditioned vehicle, and before you know it, you arrive at your hotel. Doesn't that sound way better than the whole 'eternal airport limbo' we made up earlier? So, here's everything you need to know about travel from Dubai airport, including transfers!

Image of Female, Girl, Person, Teen, Accessories, Bag, Handbag, Pants, Car, Vehicle, City, Purse,

Travel in Dubai - how long are airport transfers?

The good news is that, if you're staying in the city center, it's only a 3-mile drive from Dubai International Airport. This will take roughly 25 minutes, or double that if you're staying in Downtown Dubai.

Travel in Dubai - why you should book a transfer from the airport

As a stranger in a strange land, it couldn't hurt to get some know-how from the locals. And that's what you'll get in spades if you book an airport transfer. Cab drivers will be able to provide you with local tips and tricks with a vacation twist, so be sure to strike up a conversation and see what tasty gossip nuggets you can mine.

Besides, you may have already started celebrating your vacation on the plane, so leaving the driving up to someone else might be the best, and legal, course of action!

Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Driving, Vehicle,

We've touched on the stress many holiday-goers can feel when they leave the airport in an unfamiliar place. Not knowing the local language can be a barrier between you and public transport. So it's good to know that when you get off the plane, you'll have a car and driver waiting for you, who knows exactly where to take you!

And better still, as they know your route, you'll already have a pre-agreed price. Hell, you may have already paid for the trip. With airport transfers, you don't have to worry about getting scammed or overcharged, or having enough local currency on you to pay.

Travel in Dubai - types of transfer vehicles from the airport

Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Accessories, Formal Wear, Tie, Driving, Vehicle, Chair,

Cheapest - shuttle

A cheap and cheerful shuttle will certainly do the job, with prices around $7-10. However, you will be traveling with others, and that may mean you end up making multiple stops before your desired destination. That also means your journey will be significantly longer at around 60 minutes, and you'll only have a small personal allowance for luggage. If you're traveling in a group, you're probably better off with one of the more expensive alternatives.

Small group - private car

These come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, with some (around $25) allowing up to 3 passengers, and others like mini-buses (around $35), allowing up to 7 passengers. The quality/brand of the vehicle will determine the price you pay, with classier rides being significantly more expensive for the same short journey. But hey, if you want to pay over $200 to ride in style for 15 minutes, you do you!

Image of Face, Happy, Head, Person, Smile, Accessories, Sunglasses, Selfie, Adult, Female, Woman, Car, Vehicle, Glasses, Photography,

Large group - coach

This one's for the extended family-type trips, where you meet three cousins you never knew existed. Seating anywhere from 35 up to 50 people, you'll pay handsomely for the privilege, but it's unarguably the best way for huge groups to travel.

Travel in Dubai - final tips on airport transfers

Whenever you book a transfer, make sure to research the travel company online to see their reviews. That way, you hopefully won't be surprised by false advertising, or end up in a car that's falling apart.

Make sure that your luggage allowance is enough for the transfer vehicle you hire! At best, you might be stuck with heavy bags on your lap for the journey. At worst, they might refuse to take you entirely!

Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Female, Woman, Formal Wear, Suit,

If your driver is super helpful and goes above and beyond in regards to their advice, hints and tips, or they're clearly making an effort to be chatty, be sure to tip them right back. But like, with money rather than life advice or anything.

And finally, make sure you keep all receipts/emails with your booking info handy, either printed out on paper or on your phone's mailbox. That way, if you do run into any problems, you'll have quick access to the info you'll need to resolve the problem!

And that about covers everything you need to know about air travel and transfers in Dubai Airport! Looking for fun in Dubai without the fuss? Look no further than Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want. If you seek some extreme sports to get the blood pumping, why not check out our guide to the best thrill-seeking activities in the city? Live for the night? Read up on our recommendations for the best neon-soaked activities. Hungry and want to know what's good? We've got you covered, thanks to your ultimate guide to the best eats in Dubai.

Continue reading

Blog

Things To Do In Palm Jumeirah During Your Trip to Dubai

In a city full of world record breaking wonders and awe-inspiring architecture, the man-made Palm Jumeirah stands out as one of Dubai's most intriguing and enticing areas for visitors and locals alike. Palm Jumeirah is an engineering and design feat, an oasis of luxury and entertainment on the Persian Gulf, situated on an island that resembles a palm tree. From shops, to hotels, to restaurants, and beach clubs the Palm offers something for everyone and is one of the best places in Dubai to relax and soak up the sun. We've drawn up a list of some of the most essential attractions and things to do in Palm Jumeirah on your visit to the Emirate, including: Dubai Palm Cruise Tour Hop-On/Hop-Off Big Bus Dubai Tour Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis The Palm Standup Paddleboard Lesson Kayak Tour of Palm Jumeirah Windsurf Lesson Save on Palm Jumeirah Area Attraction Admission Admission to a number of these top Dubai attractions and activities are included on the Go Dubai Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 52% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Dubai Palm Cruise Tour Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Dubai Tour Enjoy the scenic route to Palm Jumeirah via Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road to the island aboard the comfort and climate controlled environment of the Hop-On/Hop-Off Big Bus Dubai Tour. This tour from Big Bus is among my favorite Dubai sightseeing tours and is hands-down one of the best ways to explore Dubai, especially for first timers. Your seat on the bus will give you a great view of the city as you make your way up the Palm trunk into the lush, beachy borders of Palm Jumeirah. The glass top of the bus allows you the perfect chance to snap photos while you avoid the sweltering heat. A particular benefit of this tour is the luxury of hopping on and off whenever you'd like so you can more fully take in the environment. Each tour includes commentary, background, and tourist narration in 12 different languages. You'll disembark from this tour feeling much more informed about the Emirate and its top landmarks. Getting In: Big Bus Dubai tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card. Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis The Palm Standup Paddleboard Lesson by SeaYou Kayak Tour of Palm Jumeirah by SeaYou Windsurf Lesson by SeaYou Remember to Save on Palm Jumeirah Attraction Admission There you go - a few great recommendations for things to do in Palm Jumeirah Dubai during your trip. Remember, many of these great attraction options and more are included on the Go Dubai Card, where you can save up to 52% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your Dubai vacation itinerary.
Lindsay Eagan
boat dubai
Blog

Best Boat Tours in Dubai

Mammals ventured out of the big drink many millions of years ago, and eventually, some of them became us. But our fascination with the oceans never really disappeared. Since early humans were able to use tools, we've been keen to throw ourselves back onto the waves and sail away. But what are we sailing away from? Our problems? Our past? Anyway, what about boats? Pretty cool, right? Let's talk about boats and why you should ride them. Firstly, fun. Boats are fun. Facts. Secondly, they let you see another side of a city - the waterside. So, if you're vacationing in Dubai, we hope you're pumped to read about the best boat tours available, because we're pumped to tell you about them! Including: Ain Dubai boat tour Black Pearl Sightseeing Cruise Sunset Dinner Cruise Dubai Marina Speed Boat Sightseeing Dubai Tour Yas Island Sightseeing Cruise and more! Ain Dubai boat tour Let's kick off our list with a delightful sunset tour of Dubai's opulent marina. After boarding a luxury yacht, you'll pass by the multi-million dollar high-rise flats at Bluewaters Island and the skyscrapers of Jumeirah Beach Residence, as well as the typically stunning views of the city's skyline. Then, get your cameras ready for the tour's crown jewel - Ain Dubai. The largest observation wheel on the planet dwarfs the London Eye at nearly twice its size. And, at 250m tall, you can imagine how great the views are from up there! With tours leaving at 6:30PM or 9PM, you can have your tour bathed in twilight, or immerse yourself in the midnight glow of Dubai's neon magnificence. The choice is yours. Image courtesy of Mana Photo/Shutterstock Black Pearl Sightseeing Cruise If you're bringing the little one along with you, then why not sail away with their favorite drunk pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow? Yes, now, all their pirating dreams - and maybe yours - can come true on this sightseeing cruise atop Sparrow's famous Black Pearl galleon. With the Captain as your guide, you'll travel through the stunning Ras al Khor (Dubai Creek Harbour) and on to Mohamed Bin Rashid where you'll pause to marvel at the views of the Burj Khalifa. Make sure to have your camera ready, because you'll want to take photos of the magnificent scenery you pass on your voyage. Oh, and maybe a few pics with the Captain himself, should he be able to stay on his two feet! Sunset Dinner Cruise of Dubai Marina How does a seaside dinner cruise at sunset sound? Good, yeah? If so, this will be one of your best boat tours in Dubai! Enjoy a mouth-watering dinner, live music and entertainment, and stunning views on this tour of Dubai Marina. Hop aboard, grab a drink, and sit down for a cruise like no other. Thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows on the bottom deck, or the open-air of the top deck, you'll see the Marina, the tallest block of towers in the world, and the Cayan Tower with its impressive architectural twist. As well as skyscraping sights, you'll also take in views of the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and its waterfront. And the dinner itself? Sublime, thanks to the generous buffet on board. Sample pasta dishes, fill your bowl with noodles, and top it all off with a decadent dessert of crumble or brownies. Delish. Speed Boat Sightseeing Dubai Tour If the thought of cruising across the waves fills your lungs with yawn matter, you'll want something a little faster. Well hold onto your hats, then, because you can also see Dubai's shoreline at a breakneck pace thanks to this speed boat sightseeing tour of the city! For 90 minutes, you'll be flung around the open ocean as you set your sights on the beautiful Dubai skyline. Speed past the Marina as your guide fills you in on the city's history and lines your brain with sweet, sweet knowledge. You'll even see luxury hotels, the royal sheik's palaces, and high-profile villas. Lovely. But don't worry, it's not all speed. You'll have the chance to slow down on occasion and put your photo clicking finger to work. Creek Sightseeing Cruise by Tour Dubai Or, if you really want to relax and see some parts of the city you'd otherwise miss, check out this architectural boat tour of Dubai Creek, Deira, and Bur Dubai. Boarding a traditional, handcrafted dhow boat, the slower pace gives you the chance to soak up Dubai's rich culture, while your commentary track fills you in on the ins and outs of each location. And, if you're a little parched from the warm weather, do not fear - you'll get a complimentary soft drink or water bottle when you board. They really thought of everything, didn't they? Marina Sightseeing Cruise Explore Dubai's Canal City and Marina with this picturesque hour-long cruise of the harbor! See the architectural marvel of Dubai up close on this fascinating boat tour of the shore. Take as many pics for your socials as possible, making your followers envious beyond your wildest dreams. And, sip on a refreshing complimentary drink as you sail. Not bad at all. Yas Island Sightseeing Cruise Venture beyond Dubai on a handcrafted boat as you explore the shores of Yas Island. You'll pass by recognizable landmarks from the United Arab Emirates, such as Al Zaina, Al Bandar, and Al Seef. You'll even get a closer look at the famous Yas Marina F1 Race Circuit. You might not be in a car, but you can pretend you're racing on the circuit yourself, if that floats your boat. Floats your boat? An unintentional pun, we assure you. Those are our picks for the best boat tours in Dubai! Looking for other memorable adventures to experience while in Dubai? Why not check out Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want. There's so much to do, see, and experience that no matter what you decide to do, you'll love your time in the city!
Dom Bewley
dubai food
Blog

Best Restaurants in Dubai

Sometimes, going on vacation can be daunting - especially when it comes to food. Local cuisine can make or break a holiday, so it's good to know your options. Thankfully, Dubai has a large number of amazing restaurants that cater to every cuisine imaginable, so you'll never feel like you're missing out. These are our picks for the very best restaurants you absolutely must visit in Dubai! Including: Coya BB Social Dining Long Teng 21 Grams Bagatelle and more! Coya If you're looking for some delightful bites influenced by Latin American cuisine, go check out Goya. This Peruvian restaurant, which also borrows generously from Spanish and far Eastern cuisine, is well known around Dubai as one of the best in town. Visitors can expect great food and great service, all wrapped up in a lively atmosphere that peaks in the evening. Just bear in mind that all that good comes at a cost, so make sure you're flush and check their menu prices before striding in all confident. If you've got the dough, and the menu's for you, Coya is easily one of the best restaurants in Dubai. BB Social Dining BB Social Dining feels like a joint teleported in from New York, thanks to its narrow-yet-tall three-floor structure. Step inside, glide up the staircase to your table, and sit down for some amazing fusion of Eastern and Middle-Eastern cuisine. You'll find crispy sprouts sitting right by truffle egg and kung fu wings on the menu, and you can pair all these weird yet wonderful combinations with a selection of delightful drinks, should you be parched. Long Teng Hidden in plain sight among the Business Bay office towers, you'll find this wonderfully aquatic Chinese restaurant. Step inside Long Teng, and you'll feel like you've journeyed beneath the waves, thanks to its large aquarium of sea-living legends. Approach the aquarium, pick your dish, and then sit down to your delicious treat. The menu is packed full of authentic Chinese dishes, so if seafood isn't your jam, or picking your meal seems a little morbid, you can select one of the already deceased options and enjoy that instead. They have vegetarian options too, if you want to give the murder a miss. 21 Grams Balkan cuisine doesn't get a lot of love across the globe, which is a shame. A fusion of many different cuisines from nearby, its mix of meats, seafood, and baked delights doesn't get its due. But that's not the case in Dubai, thanks to 21 Grams. Enter the generous dining area and chow down on some delightful family recipes like zucchini fritters, wagyu beef stuffed patties, and a daily rotation of fresh fish. Grand. Bagatelle Look for late-night French delights? Look no further than Bagatelle, which many consider one of Dubai's best evening hangouts. Though you can book earlier, head there when the sun goes down to make the most of your Bagatelle experience. With a menu teeming with authentic French cuisine, including uniquely French oddities like snails and frogs legs, as well as a burgeoning drinks menu and live music throughout the night, it could easily be your one-stop shop for a perfect night out. Definitely one of the best restaurants in Dubai if you're looking for a lively time. Masti If you're in the market for a little Indian, head to Masti, which does the best South Asian dishes anywhere in Dubai. With meals designed by award-winning chef Prashant Chipkar, expect nothing but the best Indian cuisine, with small plates sure to tickle your spicy side. But this isn't your traditional affair, with each Indian mainstay given a very modern twist. Just when you thought you knew what to expect from a curry, Masti offers a delicious rug pull that will have you questioning reality itself. Or, well, maybe not reality. But your expectations of an Indian menu? Sure. Even the decor is delightful, thanks to the blue upholstery and giant hanging light bulbs. Dine like royalty while feeling like royalty. That's the name of the game at Masti. Armani/Ristorante For Italian cuisine lovers, look no further than the classy, upmarket vibes on offer at Armani/Ristorante. Don't let the minimalist decor fool you - the menu is far from basic. With wonderful Dubai twists on classic Italian dishes, and each selection paired with a recommended wine, you'll have your pick from the likes of braised lamb ravioli, foie gras, blue lobster, and many more. If your bank account can handle it, we'd recommend the Tajima wagyu strip loin with black truffle mashed potato. Divine. Al Beiruti Al Beiruti caters to all your Middle-Eastern culinary desires, so if you want some authentic local food, you know where to go. Thanks to the all-day menu featuring breakfasts, mezze, grilled meats, and even a kids menu, you can enjoy Al Beiruti's delights from sun up to sun down. And, with the kitchen visible from your table, you can see the master chefs in action as they wrangle up your tasty treats. Expect plenty of hummus, shawarma, sausages, and Middle-Eastern takes on burgers, to name but a few. Bubbalicious And finally, no list of the best restaurants in Dubai would be complete without a shout-out to everyone's favorite between-meal; brunch. Does Dubai do brunch? Too right it does. So why not check out the city's best brunch spot at Bubbalicious? Located in the Marriott's Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, you'll find this delightful all-you-can-eat brunch fest. And their offerings are startling, to say the least. Lobster, curry, steak, Asian dishes, roasted meats, and much more fill the aisles, and you can have as much as you want. Not a bad way to start your day, ay? Those are our picks for the best restaurants in Dubai! With all that fuel in you, you'll be ready for all the amazing experiences Dubai has to offer. Looking for ideas? Why not check out Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want. There's so much to do, see, and experience that no matter what you decide to do, you'll love your time in the city!
Dom Bewley

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

  • Thick check Icon