Dubai is a cosmopolitan city that welcomes millions of tourists every year. The city offers a wide range of public transportation options for visitors to get around and explore its many attractions. From the sleek and modern metro system to traditional forms of transportation like buses and water taxis, there are plenty of tourist options. This article will provide an overview of the different public transportation options available in Dubai for tourists, including information on fares, routes, and tips for navigating the system.

461 million People Used Public Transport in Dubai for the year 2021 

Modes Of Public Transport Network:

Dubai is a city known for its modern and efficient transportation system. The city offers a variety of modes of public transport for its residents and visitors, including buses, metro trains, trams, and water taxis. The Dubai Metro is one of the most popular forms of public transport in the city, with two lines running through the city and connecting to key areas such as the Dubai International Airport and major shopping centres. Additionally, the city’s bus network is extensive and connects many areas of the city, while the water taxi service, known as the “abra,” provides a unique way to travel along the city’s waterways. Overall, the diverse range of public transport options in Dubai makes it easy for people to navigate and explore the city.

Below is the list of Public Transport Available in Dubai:

  • DTC Smart App
  • Dubai Metro
  • Dubai Bus
  • Taxi
  • Tajeer
  • Tram
DTC APP
Image Credits: DubaiTaxi

DTC Smart App:

The “DTC App” is a new-gen application that uses cutting-edge technologies to make it simple for customers to request a variety of transportation services, including taxis and limos, in an innovative, simple, and integrated manner with the Control Center of the Dubai Taxi Corporation and the Reservation and Distribution Center at the Public Transport Agency at the Roads and Transport Authority. Speed and precision allow the consumer to book in three easy stages, beginning with a quick download and registration, followed by car selection and reservation. The software locates the closest available vehicle, dispatches it automatically to the customer’s location to begin the trip, and offers credit card or direct payment choices.

Dubai Metro
Image Credit: Wikimediaimages (Pixabay)

Dubai Metro:

One of the most cutting-edge and contemporary rail systems is the Red and Green lines of the Dubai Metro. It provides a variety of opulent services, including

Train Architecture Of Dubai Metro

Various types of cabins, including those for holders of Nol Gold cards, a section of cabins intended for women and children, and general cabins are all included in a Dubai Metro train.

Infrastructure & Equipment Of Dubai Metro:

Here is the essential information you should know while riding on the Metro. This includes details about the individual train cars, internet access, safety precautions, accommodations for disabled passengers, baggage guidelines, and tips for proper etiquette to enhance your overall experience.

Wireless Internet While In Motion:

Wireless internet access is available throughout the entire metro transportation system and completes cellular phone service coverage in all areas of the network.

Cameras Installed All Over The Metro:

The installation of more than 3,000 closed-circuit television cameras on trains and at train stations to monitor and detect any security violations or breaches on the trains.

Police Force All Over The Metro:

A police force specifically assigned to patrol and maintain order in the metro area.

First Aid Kit Everywhere:

First Aid Box availability at every metro station all over the Dubai Metros.

Accessibility

The Dubai metro service places a strong emphasis on providing convenience for its commuters. In pursuit of this goal, the service offers a range of accessibility options for its users including the following.

Platform Alerts

Notifications through the platform, such as a sound that goes off when the doors open or close and flashing light signals.

Wheelchair access

All trains have designated areas specifically for individuals in wheelchairs.

Lift Access

Elevator access is available to every level of the metro station.

Informative Displays

The information is displayed on various screens in trains and railway stations.

Apps By Road & Transport Authority of Dubai 

The goal of RTA is to improve customer satisfaction and assist in the development of Dubai as a smart city by implementing its strategic objectives. To accomplish this, RTA offers convenient access to its services through user-friendly, smart technology applications that cater to individual needs.

Dubai bus
Image Credits: Volvobuses

Dubai Bus

The Public Transport Agency (PTA) offers public bus service with a fleet of 1,518 buses. It has a wide range of 119 internal lines, including connections to 35 metro stations, 12 intercity lines for travel to other emirates, 62 internal lines, and 8 fast lines. The bus network covers a majority of urban areas in Dubai, and daily transports around 369,248 passengers.

Facilities in Dubai Bus:

  • All buses have air conditioning that is in operation at all times.
  • All main bus stops have cafeterias and vending machines available and installed.
  • E-Card machines are available for passengers to easily check in and out of their bus rides with convenience.
  • Special facilities are provided for people with special needs, including space for wheelchairs and other accommodations.
  • Multiple information screens are installed at bus stops, displaying information about bus stops and general notifications for passengers.
  • NOL top-up machines are available at all main bus stops for passengers to conveniently add credit to their NOL cards.
  • Parking spots for taxis and cycle stands for bicycles are provided at main bus stations for the convenience of passengers.
  • A separate compartment is designated for women, children, and families for their comfort and safety
Dubai Taxi
Image Credits: DubaiTaxi

Dubai Taxis

Dubai Taxi Corporation’s taxis and limousines are widely used for transportation in Dubai, as they are available 24/7 and even on public holidays. They are well-maintained, equipped with regulated meters, and driven by friendly drivers. These vehicles can be found at various locations throughout the city, including public spaces, shopping centres, and major landmarks. Customers can conveniently book a taxi or limousine by calling 80088088 or through the DTC Smart App, and have it arrive at their doorstep or office, while also enjoying free in-ride internet access.

Services offered in Dubai Taxi’s

  • Airport taxis are a specialized service provided exclusively for the convenience of visitors arriving at Dubai International Airport. They provide transportation from the airport to their final destination.
  • Hatta Taxi is a service that caters to the transportation needs of residents in the City of Hatta, but it also has the authority to pick up and drop off customers between Dubai and Hatta. It offers a convenient way for people to travel between the two areas.
  • Ladies and Families Taxi is a specialized service that is exclusively driven by female drivers and caters to the transportation needs of ladies and families. It aims to provide a comfortable and safe ride for women and families in the city.
  • DTC Limousine Service is a luxury transportation option that is designed to serve the needs of clients in the tourism industry. It is a chauffeur-driven service that offers a high-end and comfortable experience for travellers.
  • The My Driver service allows individuals to hire fully trained and competent drivers, who do not operate taxi vehicles, for a specific time. It provides a convenient and personalized transportation option for customers who prefer to have a dedicated driver for their specific needs.
  • Public Taxi is a general service provided by DTC that is open to all customers who wish to use DTC taxis for their transportation needs within the UAE. It is a widely available service that can be used for all types of travel, whether it be for daily commutes, personal trips, or business purposes.
  • Special Needs Taxi is a specialized service that provides transportation for individuals with special needs. The service uses highly sophisticated vehicles that are equipped and designed with the comfort of those with special needs in mind. These vehicles are typically modified and equipped to accommodate the specific needs of individuals with disabilities, such as wheelchair ramps and other accessibility features.
  • DTC Taxi Rental is a service that allows customers to rent a taxi with a driver for travel within Dubai. This service can be booked in advance by reserving 24 hours prior through DTC’s Dispatch Center. It provides a flexible and convenient option for customers who need to travel within the city, but do not have their own vehicle or prefer not to drive themselves.

Taxi fare information

Dubai Taxi Service Taxi Fare
Airport Taxi “Serves Dubai International Airport, operating at an opening fare of 25 Dirham and an extra fare of AED1.75 per 1 km.”
Hatta taxi “The fare of Hatta Taxi is set at 25 Dirham per person in the 7-seater vehicle.”
Ladies’ taxi “The opening fare is 6 Dirham in the morning, noon and evening and 7 Dirham after 10.00 pm.”
Ordinary Taxicabs from the Airport “This general service is open to all customers who wish to use DTC taxis for all their different travel needs within the UAE.”
Special needs taxi “Starting fare of this service varies according to the location and & time.”

 

Tajeer

RTA’s buses and marine transportation services, such as the Dubai Ferry, Water Taxi, and Water Bus, have exceptional standards that are unmatched globally. These transportation options feature luxurious and comfortable amenities, as well as advanced technology and additional features that make travelling on them a truly memorable experience.

Advantages:

  • RTA has 40 years of experience in the field of passenger transportation.
  • RTA has over 5 bus depots equipped with advanced equipment and maintenance facilities.
  • RTA operates environment-friendly buses and marine transportation services.
  • RTA’s buses and marine transport services are controlled and managed through the RTA Operation Control Center, which is equipped with the latest technology in the field and operates 24/7.
  • RTA offers customized services, the routes of the rented buses and marine transport services can be configured to meet the specific needs of individual customers
  • In addition, RTA’s buses and marine transport services can be fitted with additional on-board services as requested by customers, such as attendance systems, internet access, breakfast, and daily newspapers.
  • RTA’s drivers are highly skilled and have been trained in safe driving techniques and customer service etiquette.
Dubai Tram
Image Credits: Analogicus (Pixabay)

Dubai Tram

The safest public transportation in the world, which is designed in a manner to be the essential transport network by Dubai RTA. Dubai’s Tram service connects Al Sufouh Road and Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai Metro and the Palm Monorail.

Dubai’s Tram Structure:

The Dubai Tram is regarded as the first tramway project outside of Europe to be powered by an electric supply network that runs alongside the track, eliminating the need for catenary cables. It is also the first tramway in the world to use Platform Screen Doors in passenger stations that are perfectly aligned with the tram’s door opening and closing mechanism. This gives passengers the maximum amount of convenience, safety, and security while also safeguarding the quality of the air conditioning inside both stations and carriages from outside climatic conditions.

Facilities in Dubai Tram:

  • Wireless Internet Services are offered all over the metro stations and also an entire coverage of mobile phone services.
  • Set of Police Force which is only responsible for the Dubai Tram services to administer.
  • Emergency services and the Tram Stations are interlinked for any case