Dubai’s public transport is clean, safe and inexpensive. The Metro’s Red Line runs the length of the city along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Green Line serves the older districts around the creek, and the tram connects Dubai Marina, JBR and Al Sufouh.
Nol cards
One card covers the Metro, tram, buses and public water transport. Tap in and tap out.
| Card | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Red ticket | AED 2 card, then single-trip fares | One or two journeys |
| Silver card | AED 25 including AED 19 credit | Most visitors and residents |
| Gold card | AED 25 | Gold Class carriages (double fare) |
| Blue card | AED 70 including AED 20 credit | Personalised; concession discounts |
Standard Silver fares have been AED 3 within one zone, AED 5 across two zones and AED 7.50 across more. Red ticket fares are higher.
Metro hours
Typical hours are 5am to midnight Monday to Thursday and on Saturday, 5am to 1am on Friday and 8am to midnight on Sunday. Hours are extended for holidays and big events.
Renamed Metro stations
Many stations carry sponsor names. Several familiar ones have changed:
- Dubai Marina is now Sobha Realty.
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers is now DMCC.
- Al Fahidi (Green Line) is now Sharaf DG.
- Palm Deira is now Gold Souq.
- Al Khail is now Al Fardan Exchange.
- Etisalat is now e&.
Taxis
Taxis are metered and plentiful. Book through the RTA’s apps or partner ride-hailing apps, or hail one in the street. Street-hail fares have started at a flag fall of AED 5 (more at night) with a minimum fare of AED 12; app bookings carry a slightly higher minimum, and airport pickups have a higher starting fare. Fares are adjusted monthly with fuel prices.
Abras and water transport
Wooden abras cross Dubai Creek for a few dirhams in cash, and the RTA also runs water buses and the Dubai Ferry.
Driving
Salik toll gates charge automatically as you pass; each crossing has been AED 4, with variable pricing at peak times. Rental cars include a Salik tag and bill tolls afterwards.