Getting Around Dubai
By air
Dubai is extremely accessible; over 120 airlines operate flights from around the world to Dubai International Airport (DXB), making it the busiest airport in the Middle East. Alternatively, many visitors to Dubai choose to fly in to neighbouring Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) from where transfer time to Dubai is approximately 1.5 hours. There’s no separate departure tax to pay at any UAE airport; it’s included in the price of your ticket.
By car
Dubai has an excellent and well-signposted road network and driving is a popular means of getting around. Several of the major car hire companies are located at the airport and have offices throughout Dubai.
By taxi
Taxis in Dubai are readily available and can be flagged down, booked ahead or picked up outside hotels. The Dubai Transport Corporation operates metered taxis, distinguished by their cream colour and uniformed drivers. There are also many private taxis which are mostly unmetered and so you may have to haggle for a good price before starting your journey.
Water taxis or Abras, crisscross Dubai Creek from early morning until around midnight, and offer a great way to see the waterfront.
By train
The Dubai Metro, the Middle East’s first automated metro system, offers a fast and efficient way to get around the city and avoid the traffic congestion. Newly opened in September 2009, the first section of the 25-mile Red Line links the main tourist areas and locations in the old and new city, including Jumeirah, the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, Deira and Dubai International Airport.
By bus
The Dubai Municipality operates a public bus service throughout the city and for journeys beyond Dubai, inter-emirate travel is offered by Dubai Transport minibuses.