Dubai

A guide to getting around Dubai for tourists

Getting around Dubai is simpler than you think - as soon as you land in DXB International Airport, a wealth of transportation options await you.
By Lindsay Eagan

Our quick how-to-get-around Dubai guide for tourists.

Dubai can seem like a shimmering, cosmopolitan maze of glass and metal towers and landmarks plopped down in the middle of the desert.

On the first descent into Dubai International Airport, the barren sand dunes give way to a glittery oasis. Dubai is one of the world's most vibrant and developed cities. For many, this Arabian city is a wonderful place to indulge in an array of entertainment, dining, and shopping options. But it can also be overwhelming, with so much to see and do on a 'larger-than-life' scale.

That said, travel to and within Dubai is fairly easy and stress-free. As part of its transition into a tourist-supported economy, this city at the heart of the Emirates has increasingly built itself up to be a globally accessible hub, welcoming foreign guests and businesses. There are lots of transportation options, so we've outlined some of the best ways to get around during your visit.

Getting around Dubai by taxi or private car

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Once in the city, you'll find an abundance of taxis available. Many tourists have said this is the best and easiest way to get around Dubai. Most taxis are operated by the government with a few private companies offering alternative services.

All taxis run on a metered service with the fee charged by distance, so be sure to ask your driver to turn on their meter if they have not automatically done so. Licensed taxis are tan color with red or pink roofs; taxis with pink roofs are driven by women and intended for women and families only.

Taxi stands are fairly accessible from the city's famous landmarks, such as Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, Palm Jumeirah, and many hotels. Be aware that you may experience long wait times for a taxi during rush hour, typically between 3:30pm and 5:30pm.

Hop On Hop Off sightseeing bus

Though it's not necessarily your primary form of transportation, it's an incredible option that combines your need to get around with a fun and informative tour. Aboard the open-deck Hop On Hop Off tour with Big Bus Dubai, you'll pass famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Fountain, and more.

Your guide will provide you with a background of the city and its story. You'll be able to hop on or off at any stop, which makes your sightseeing that much easier!

Getting around Dubai by metro or tram

The Metro

Dubai metro

While many cities of comparable size like London, New York, or Paris operate extensive metro or subway systems, Dubai is unique in still operating only two metro lines to accommodate its citizens and guests. With over 45 stops, The Metro serves the most popular tourist areas within Dubai. The fare will depend on the zone you're traveling in and the distance traveled.

Cabs and supplemental buses are available at most stations and can be used to get you to your destination, if needed, but are typically more expensive. The main metro line runs the length of Sheikh Zayed Road, while the newer, second line services the old town area of the city.

Most points of interest for tourists are clustered around Sheikh Zayed, so you'll be able to hit a lot of the popular attractions using just The Metro. Much of Dubai's impressive new construction, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Marina are directly connected to the main metro line as well.

Fares can be purchased and stored on Nol Cards (which can even be used to pay for RTA parking). Riders can purchase single or multiple travel tickets. Trains operate every 10 minutes during off-peak times and even faster during rush hour.

The Tram

More recently, Dubai opened a second form of public transportation: The Tram. The tram travels on a specially constructed street-level track to connect the highly populated residential and commercial areas of Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Media City.

Offering a flat rate no matter the destination or length of travel, the Dubai Tram is one of the cheapest forms of transport in the city.

The Palm Monorail

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If you're planning on spending the day on Palm Jumeirah Island (which we highly recommend!) or visiting Atlantis The Palm, hop on the Palm Monorail. The Palm Monorail connects Dubai's mainland with the Palm Jumeirah Island station.

It's the perfect way to travel from the city to Atlantis the Palm for a day of fun at Aquaventure Water Park or the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

Getting Around Dubai by boat or ferry

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Since Dubai is home to two large commercial ports, there are numerous places to dock yachts, cruise ships, and smaller boats.

One of the most delightfully authentic ways of getting around Dubai as a tourist is to take a tour on a traditional dhow boat. These small boats carry passengers across the Dubai Creek to the historic old town neighborhoods of Bastakiya and Bani Yas Road for a very low fee. A more modern water bus service also operates in the Creek and Dubai Marina areas to travel the city's "liquid streets".

Private boats and yachts are also a permanent fixture in Dubai's waterways. Many foreign guests prefer to cruise their way into the city via a luxury yacht, while this Emirate nation also has many private boat companies that rent out vessels on an hourly basis for a fun day at sea.

Getting around by bike

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Dubai is becoming an increasingly bike-friendly city. With so many beautiful structures and sand dunes to see, cycling around Dubai is one of the best ways to get out and see everything on your bucket list. Finding a bike is extremely easy, as there are public bikes for rent at BYKY Station and many popular tourist spots, including Jumeirah Beach. A ride around this coastal area is a great way to while away a few hours.

Getting to and from Dubai International Airport

The Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the world's busiest airport in terms of international passenger traffic, and the world's third busiest in terms of total passenger travel. With direct flights to nearly every continent in the world, it's no wonder DXB is so busy.

The airport is also the home of Emirates, the Middle East's largest carrier that offers a direct flight to almost every major city in the world, with a special Emirates-only terminal. Other attractive features include luxury passenger lounges and a large duty-free shopping area in each terminal.

Plane landing at DXB

Dubai International Airport is easily connected to the center of the city via the highway system, by taxi or private car, or numerous local bus routes that disembark straight from the airport to different places of interest. Once outside the terminal, you'll be able to locate your preferred form of transportation easily.

The airport is also directly served by the Dubai Metro public transport system which operates two lines to and from the airport, easily accessible from arrivals.

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Things to Do in City Walk Dubai During Your Vacation

City Walk Dubai is one of the Emirate's newest and most exciting destinations. This city within a city features wide boulevards and scenic sidewalk cafes that would rival the likes of New York or Paris. There is also an enclosed mall with real, living trees and piped-in birdsong. The area is a peaceful oasis within Dubai's modern maze of soaring skyscrapers. The entire family will find a place to enjoy at City Walk Dubai, and it's especially a hotspot for dedicated shoppers. If you’re looking for things to do in City Walk Dubai during your trip, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including... The Green Planet Mattel Play! Town Hub Zero 3D Art Luxury Shopping Dining Save on Dubai Creek 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 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Mattel Play! Town The family fun at City Walk Dubai continues at Mattel Play! Town. This action-packed 'edu-play' venue is designed for children from ages two to 10. Guests to Mattel Play! Town will be delighted with entertaining live shows, educational play experiences, and a ton of hands-on activities and crafts that prompt problem-solving skills and teamwork to induce children's creativity and social skills development. Your children's favorite characters will come alive as they meet Bob the Builder and help him in his mission to steady scaffolding and build a city. They will learn about health and safety precautions as they save the day with Fireman Sam. Or they can dress up for a dance performance with Angelina Ballerina at Camembert Academy. They can also delve into the world of Thomas The Tank Engine and Friends as they take part in the 4D experience. Or perhaps it's making crafts with Barney in his colorful create space that will tickle their fancy. No matter what their favorite character or experience is, there is always something to do at Mattel Play! Town. You can use your Go Dubai Card for entrance tickets into the attraction and many others like it all across the city. Getting In: Mattel Play! Town Dubai tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card. Hub Zero For older travelers, Hub Zero, the region's first immersive entertainment hub, will certainly strike their fancy. This is a collision of worlds, where the real meets the virtual to create the ideal gaming experience with a diverse range of games enhanced with crazy dimensions and cutting-edge special effects. Step into the future of gaming and technology at Hub Zero where you can immerse yourself in a number of interactive games, including a multi-level laser tag arena, 3D games and rides, shooting skill matches, climbing walls and even a race track to put your real life skills to the test. Most interestingly, Hub Zero is the only wireless virtual reality experience in the Emirate. For adults aged 13 and over your Go Dubai Card entitles you to unlimited access of the following games at Hub Zero: Gears of War Laser Siege, Hack Attack, Resident Evil Big Terror, Virtual Arena, Battlefield Armoured Assault, Asura’s Wrath, Hyper Drive, Double Agent, Plants vs. Zombies Backyard Brawl, Hero Zone Vertical Adventure, and Sports Academy featuring Pro Evolution Soccer. For children aged three to 12 they will have unlimited admission to the following: Plants vs. Zombies, Tiny Track Racers, and Double Agent. Getting In: Hub Zero Dubai tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card. 3D Art If you're lucky enough to be visiting Dubai during the more temperate winter and spring months you can catch a glimpse of the incredible 3D art produced at venues around the city, including City Walk Dubai. Selected artists from around the world have been picked by the city to showcase their work in the urban living destination of City Walk Dubai, converting the space into an open-air canvas for the Emirate's 3D Art Festival. Many visitors are even able to watch the artists in action as they craft their masterpieces. A few United Arab Emirates-based organizations will also host free workshops and art talks throughout the festival. Getting In: Public entry to this activity is free, and any specific events may be separately ticketed. Remember to Save on City Walk Dubai Attraction Admission There you have it – a few great recommendations for things in the City Walk Dubai area. Many of these fun attraction options and more are included on the Go Dubai Card, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these great options to your Dubai vacation plans.
Lindsay Eagan
dubai scorching summer sun
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Dubai in July

Interested in visiting Dubai this summer? July might be the right month for you. Check out our guide to Dubai in July below, and see what's on offer! Including: Dubai weather in July Dubai's beaches Dubai's best water park Cool nighttime tours Chilled out skiing and more! Dubai in July: What to Expect Dubai is notoriously warm all year round, and July is the hottest year you can visit. And when we say hot, we mean hot. On average, you can expect highs of 105°F or more and lows of around 91°F. As such, you really need to be prepared for your summer vacation if you decide to go in peak summer. If you're of the paler sensibility, perhaps pick another month, or plan to spend most of your time inside during the hotter hours. If you're brave and insist on July, then pack the lightest clothes you own, your largest hats, and enough sunscreen to cover yourself tenfold. Due to the high temperatures, we'll discuss some inside and outside experiences below. That way, you'll always have an escape from the intense heat and sun, should you need it. Dubai in July: What to Do Dubai's beautiful beaches Let's kick things off with some of the braver forays you can make into Dubai's heat. Dubai is known for many things, and its stunning beaches might just be the jewel in her crown. With endless white sand, crystal clear waters, and plenty of space to stretch out and relax, Dubai's beaches are magnificent. However, rather than heading there during the day, we'd recommend avoiding the sizzling sun and instead heading there after dark. You'll still get all the goodness of the beach, just minus the third-degree burns. Jumeirah Beach Residence - or JBR, is one of the city's biggest and best beaches. And while you can't swim there after dark, you can certainly lounge on its pristine beachfront through the night. Umm Suqeim Beach, on the other hand, does allow you to swim in its calm seas until the clock strikes midnight. Thanks to its Smart Power lighting system, the sea stays safe after the sun goes down. And, like JBR, you are free to lounge there after dark for as long as you like. Both are brilliant during the day, but on a sweltering July in Dubai, maybe settle for some post-sun fun instead. Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm If you insist on the sun, at least compliment it with a healthy splash of cold water. At Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis the Palm, you'll get just that and a spoonful of fun while you're at it! With rides such as the plummeting Leap of Faith, which drops you into a massive tube surrounded by exotic aquatic life, even adrenaline junkies are catered to! Or, if heights aren't your things, test your mettle at The Rapids, which puts you on a raft battling choppy waters for a mile. Even kids will get their fix thanks to the Splasher's Children's Play Area, which features tons of mini slides, climbing frames, and even tipping buckets, so they won't miss out on all the fun. Just make sure you bring your supplies of sunscreen with you and reapply it fastidiously. Waterslides can easily wipe the sunscreen off your back and leave you exposed to the intense sun. We speak from experience - reapply regularly! And if you need a break, they even have their own beach if you need to relax under a parasol. See the sights at night If you want to see all of Dubai's highlights but fear the sun's merciless rays, why not do so at night instead? On a Dubai Magical Night Tour, you'll get just that. With the cool Dubai breeze running through your hair, you'll join your guide on an open-top trip around the city. See the most recognizable Dubai landmarks, and do it all under the relative coolness of Dubai's July night sky. But will you see? Well, be sure to snap pictures of the grand Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), Dubai Mall, the Burj Al Arab, Dubai Harbour, and more. You might not be in Dubai to see the sights specifically, but that doesn't mean you can't dedicate a cool night to learn more about them. Skiing. Yes, really If it all gets too much and the heat has you beat, you may debate whether Dubai in July was a mistake. Should you have booked a winter holiday instead, full of snow, skis, and other chilly goodness? Well, wipe those hideous thoughts from your mind. You needn't settle for one or the other, thanks to Ski Dubai. It's the world's largest indoor ski center, and it is mind-bogglingly awesome. Inside, you'll discover lovingly-recreated ski slopes where you can strut your stuff. There's even a ski lift up to the top of the slopes! And every few hours, the festivities are stopped to welcome a family of penguins across the slopes. There's no need to pack all your ski equipment either, as everything is provided on arrival. Never skied before? Never fear; they'll teach you on-site. An evening stroll in the desert And finally, we'll end things on another evening escapade. Because, if it wasn't evident enough, we'd recommend avoiding the sun as much as you can if you visit Dubai in July. So why not try a desert safari and BBQ dinner? You'll receive 5-star treatment from the get-go, with a plush 4x4 picking you up from your hotel and taking you deep into Dubai's dunes. Once you reach camp, you'll be treated to a delicious BBQ featuring grilled meats, veg, and other delights. But that's not all; there are also activities and entertainment for you to enjoy long into the night. Watch a belly dancing show, smoke some authentic shisha, ride a camel, and even get some henna painted on you! Then, you'll be taken right back to your hotel when the night is over. Nice. And that's our guide to Dubai in July! If you're looking for more fun experiences on your Dubai vacation, try Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want.
Dom Bewley
dubai in march
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Dubai in March

So, you're thinking of planning your vacation in Dubai? It's a fantastic choice, featuring some of the most eye-opening and biggest attractions on the planet. But Dubai is also one of the hottest places in the world, so is March a good time to travel to Dubai? Let's explore that and more as we delve deep into our guide to Dubai. Let's talk about what to expect from the weather and what you'll be getting up to during your stay! Including: Dubai weather in March Indoor skydiving Ride the fastest rollercoaster on Earth Sail the seas on the Black Pearl Explore the dunes on camelback and more! Dubai in March: What to Expect Dubai is notoriously warm all year round, and March is arguably the last month before a long, long summer. As such, you can expect highs of around 82°F and lows of around 64°F. After March, max temperatures don't dip lower than 91°F, and during peak summer will easily hit 105°F or more. Therefore, if you're from colder climates and you're not looking to have your eyebrows burnt off, March could be the perfect time to vacation in Dubai! Dubai in March: What to Do Catch the breeze at iFly Dubai Indoor Skydiving Forget planes and parachutes because there are safer ways to free fall these days. Leap - or stroll - over to iFly Dubai and experience indoor skydiving as you've never seen before. Over the course of two 1-minute flights, you'll be bombarded by winds of up to 124mph. You'll feel your feet leave the ground as your entire body becomes suspended in the air. Then, strut your stuff as you fling your body this way and that, throwing shapes that would make the 90s proud. If all that sounds a bit overwhelming, don't worry. Each session has a trained instructor on hand who'll show you the ropes. They'll be able to show you the correct body positions to use so you don't simply flail about like an uncultured oaf. However, if you're a pro, or you've done it before, they'll happily step back and let you own it. Must go fast at Ferrari World If you like rollercoasters, then you'll love Ferrari World. Dubai's ode to the famous car manufacturer is home to the fastest rollercoaster in the world. It's called Formula Rossa, and it's a thrill ride like no other. Strap in, put your goggles on, and prepare to be blasted nearly 150mph in 4.9 seconds. You'll be feeling speeds of nearly 5Gs, which is equivalent to F1 racecar drivers. So yeah, pretty crazy. But Formula Rossa is just one of the fantastic breakneck rides you'll find at Ferrari World. At Flying Aces, board a bi-plane (connected to a track) and ascend over 200ft in the air before you descend through the world's highest rollercoaster loop at up to 74mph. Pretend your drag racing against a friend at Fiorano GT Challenge. And ride around a miniature recreation of Italy and see the sights at Bell'Italia. Perfect for kids and bigger kids, as well as those of you with only a passing interest in cars, Ferrari World is a must-visit attraction for your March vacation in Dubai. Sail the seven seas with the Black Pearl sightseeing cruise! Who doesn't love pirates? Fictional pirates, at least. Presumably, real pirates are much less lovable and a lot more terrifying. So, why not join the most well-known pirate on the planet for a jolly sail around Dubai's delightful landmarks? With none other than Captain Jack Sparrow as your guide and navigator, you'll be shown around the likes of the stunning Dubai Creek Harbour and on to Mohamed Bin Rashid, where you'll pause to marvel at the views of the Burj Khalifa - the tallest building in the world. Perhaps Captain Sparrow will marvel at he's never seen a building that big before, and you can snap a quick selfie with him as he gasps towards the sky. With the perfect mix of comedy and exploration, this sightseeing cruise is the best way to see the city from a different perspective. All aboard on this morning desert safari tour In March, you'll find that Dubai has rather temperate mornings. So, why not head out at dawn for a desert safari tour of the dunes? You'll miss the peak of the heat and have a damn good time doing so. Start the morning off with style thanks to your lift - a feature-rich 4x4 decked out in luxury seating and air-conditioning. Once they've picked you up from your hotel, you'll be whisked away from the reflective metropolis of downtown Dubai to the magical golden dunes outside the city. Then, you'll arrive at a desert camp and meet your new ride, a camel! You'll then ride the dunes on your new buddy and see the sea of sand up close and personal. And after all that, if you want to add some excitement to your morning, you can pay a bit more to try your hand at quad-biking or even ride a dune buggy. And, after all that, you'll be taken right back to your hotel, ready for your afternoon in Dubai! Go out and see Abu Dhabi on this tour from Dubai And we'll end our guide to Dubai in March with a trip to the nation's capital. Abu Dhabi is a mix of culture and modernity, offering a decidedly different atmosphere when compared to Dubai. Kicking off on the coast, you'll pass by famous spots such as the vast Jebel Ali Port, the National Exhibition Centre, Etihad Towers, the Louvre Museum, and Emirates Palace. All of them are worthy of more than a few pictures, so keep your phones charged and your memory free. The perfect answer to Dubai's extravagance, go see what all the fuss is about. And that concludes our guide to Dubai in March! Dubai is a city packed with things to see, experiences to undertake, and plenty more in between. So, if you want to see everything the city has to offer, Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want. Take the fuss out of your trip and put it all on one pass.
Dom Bewley

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