How to Get Around Dubai: Metro, Taxis, Uber, and Car Rental

Planning your transport in Dubai is just as important as choosing your hotel or booking your flights. Whether you’re visiting for leisure, work, or a family holiday, getting around efficiently can enhance your entire experience. This guide will walk you through the best options available, from the popular Dubai Metro to taxis, Uber, and rental cars, providing reliable information on how to get around Dubai.

If you’re part of the growing number of people planning Dubai travel for UK tourists, you’ll find this guide especially helpful. With practical tips, real costs, and pros and cons of each method, we help you move confidently through this world-class city.

Why Transportation Planning Matters for UK Visitors

Dubai is a sprawling, modern city, beautifully designed but not as walkable as many European cities. Attractions are spread out, and with temperatures rising above 40°C in summer, comfort and convenience are essential. That’s why planning how to get around Dubai can make or break your trip.

UK tourists are accustomed to integrated public transport, such as the London Underground, or contactless card systems. While Dubai offers equivalents, navigating them for the first time can feel overwhelming. Knowing your transport options ahead of time allows you to budget accurately, avoid unnecessary stress, and see more during your stay.

Dubai Metro: The Most Efficient Option

The Dubai Metro is fast, clean, air-conditioned, and affordable. It’s ideal for tourists visiting areas like Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Marina. The system includes two main lines: the Red Line and the Green Line.

The Red Line serves Dubai Airport (DXB Terminals 1 and 3) and runs along Sheikh Zayed Road, while the Green Line covers Deira and Bur Dubai. Trains operate every 4 to 7 minutes from 5 AM to midnight (1 AM on weekends).

You’ll need a Nol card to ride, which can be purchased at any station. Fares range from AED 3 to 7 (about £0.60 to £1.40), depending on distance and zones. Stations are clearly marked in English and are accessible with lifts and escalators.

Dubai Tram and Monorail: Niche but Useful

The Dubai Tram connects to the Metro at Dubai Marina and serves the Jumeirah Beach Residence and Al Sufouh areas. It’s especially useful if you’re staying in beachside hotels or exploring the JBR Walk.

The Palm Monorail runs from the base of the Palm Jumeirah to Atlantis The Palm. It’s a scenic ride, costing about AED 20 (£4) one-way. While not integrated into the Metro fare system, it offers great views and direct access to one of Dubai’s top attractions.

Taxis in Dubai: Reliable and Regulated

Taxis in Dubai are government-regulated, clean, metered, and widely available. You can easily flag one on the street, book through the Dubai Taxi Corporation app, or call ahead. All drivers speak basic English, and the vehicles are equipped with air conditioning.

The starting fare is AED 12 (£2.40), and the final fare depends on distance and time of day. A trip from the airport to Downtown Dubai usually costs AED 60–80 (£12–£16). Taxis accept cash or card, and tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

Taxis are ideal if you’re in a hurry, traveling with luggage, or visiting locations not well-served by the Metro.

Uber and Careem: App-Based Convenience

Both Uber and Careem (a local ride-hailing service owned by Uber) operate extensively in Dubai. These are ideal for travelers who prefer app-based services, featuring fare estimates, driver tracking, and cashless payments.

Fares are typically slightly higher than those of taxis, but they offer more comfort and features, such as ride scheduling, luxury cars, and English-speaking drivers. Uber and Careem are especially handy during peak hours or late at night when hailing a taxi might be more difficult.

Renting a Car in Dubai: When and Why to Consider It

Renting a car is a good choice if you plan to explore areas outside the city, such as Hatta, Al Qudra, or Abu Dhabi. UK citizens can rent a car with a valid UK driver’s license and passport.

Major rental companies operate at the airport and throughout the city. Prices start at around AED 80 (£16) per day for economy cars. Petrol is inexpensive, and roads are well-marked. However, you should be confident driving on wide motorways, using GPS, and navigating Dubai’s strict traffic rules.

Avoid renting a car if you’re staying in central Dubai and mostly exploring the metro-accessible zones.

Public Buses and NOL Card Explained

Dubai also boasts a robust bus system, with over 1,500 air-conditioned buses that cover more than 85% of the city. Buses are clean, safe, and run on schedule.

To use the bus, you must have an NOL card; cash is not accepted. Routes are well-integrated with the Metro and serve areas not covered by rail systems. While buses are affordable, they can be slower due to traffic and frequent stops, making them best suited for non-urgent travel.

For tourists, buses are helpful for short-distance hops or when visiting residential areas like Satwa, Karama, or Al Barsha.

Airport Transfers and Hotel Shuttles

Arriving at Dubai International Airport? You have several options for reaching your hotel:

• Metro: Fast and cheap, with direct access to Terminals 1 and 3
• Taxi: Available 24/7, costs AED 60–80 to Downtown
• Hotel shuttle: Offered by some mid-range and luxury hotels—check ahead
• Private car or limo: Book through Emirates or your hotel concierge

If you’re arriving late at night or with a family, taxis or private transfers are the most convenient option.

Getting Around Dubai for Families and Elderly Travellers

For families with children or elderly travellers, convenience and accessibility are key. Metro stations feature elevators, ramps, and designated seating areas. Strollers are permitted, and baby-changing facilities are readily available in malls and public restrooms.

Uber XL, Careem Kids, and taxis are ideal for families that need more space or require car seats. If you’re staying at a resort, free shuttles to malls and tourist attractions may be included.

For elderly visitors, renting a car may not be necessary. Instead, rely on taxis, the metro, or pre-booked private transfers for a stress-free experience.

Accessibility and Safety Tips

Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world. Public transport is monitored, clean, and extremely safe for solo travellers, including women.

For accessibility, most metro and bus stations have lifts, tactile guidance paths, and space for wheelchairs. If you require additional support, notify your hotel or travel agent to arrange special assistance.

Avoid jaywalking, eating on public transport, or smoking in undesignated areas, as fines are strictly enforced.

Day Trips: Abu Dhabi, Hatta, and More

If you’ve ticked off the major attractions in Dubai, why not explore the UAE’s other emirates? From cultural capitals to mountain retreats, several exciting day trips are easily accessible from the city. However, it’s important to note that Dubai’s public transport system does not extend efficiently into neighbouring emirates, making a rental car or guided tour your most practical options.

Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, is just a 90-minute drive from Dubai. It offers must-see sights, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the adrenaline-pumping Ferrari World. If you’re not driving, many operators offer private day tours that include hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and a local guide.

Hatta, located in the Hajar Mountains near the Oman border, is perfect for nature lovers. Just 1.5 to 2 hours by car, it offers stunning landscapes, kayaking at Hatta Dam, and hiking trails with panoramic views. It’s a peaceful contrast to the glitz of Dubai.

Sharjah and Al Ain are closer options that highlight the UAE’s cultural side. Sharjah is home to heritage museums, Islamic art centres, and restored souks. Al Ain, about 90 minutes away, offers UNESCO-listed forts, oases, and camel markets.

While buses do connect Dubai to other emirates, they are generally slow, less comfortable, and not ideal for tourists on tight schedules. For maximum flexibility and comfort, renting a car or booking a reputable guided day trip is the recommended approach.

Pro Tips for Navigating Dubai Like a Local

• Get a Silver Nol card: It works on the metro, tram, buses, and some taxis
• Use RTA’s S’hail app: Combines all transport options in one app
• Avoid rush hours: Especially 7–9 AM and 5–7 PM on weekdays
• Check public holiday schedules: Metro hours can change during Eid
• Always carry water: Especially if taking buses or walking between stations

Cost Comparison: Metro vs Taxi vs Uber vs Rental

More Dubai Travel Advice

Here are more helpful reads for your Dubai travel planning:

• What to pack for Dubai: A guide for UK travellers
• Do UK citizens need a visa to visit Dubai?
• Dubai airport guide: What UK travellers should expect
• Best travel insurance options for UK residents visiting Dubai

Get Around Dubai Easily

Knowing how to get around Dubai is essential for making the most of your trip. From high-tech metro rides to comfortable taxis and scenic drives, each option suits a different kind of traveller.

If you’re planning Dubai travel for UK tourists, use this guide to choose the most cost-effective, comfortable, and practical transportation options. Whether you’re exploring the city solo, travelling with family, or taking day trips to nearby emirates, Dubai’s transport system has something to offer everyone.

Want more expert tips? Explore our full series on Dubai travel planning.