When traveling to a new city where the culture is vastly different from our own, we need to learn about the aspects of local daily life, including transportation. In this article we tell you how to get around Dubai safely and to make the most of your trip. Take note!
How to get around Dubai: Everything you need to know
If you are traveling to Dubai soon, one of the first things you should know is that it is a huge city and getting around can be difficult if you are not sure how to go about it. As is typical of more urban cities, there are both public and private transportation options.
Below, you will see the most important aspects so that you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Public transport in Dubai
As a modern city, Dubai has adapted its public transport infrastructure to welcome tourists. However, there are some important factors to keep in mind to avoid any last minute surprises.
Metro and tramway
Dubai's metro network is almost 55 miles long and has two main lines: the red line and the green line. In addition, the entire system is automated, which makes using the metro not as complicated as it may seem at first.
The metro here is similar to the ones in other cities. The price of a ticket will depend on the distance to the final destination, although you can also choose to purchase a card, the Nol card, and top up the balance when it is depleted. Also bear in mind that schedules may change on Fridays and public holidays, as Friday is a day of prayer in Dubai.
If you head to the Dubai Marina area, you will see that the tramway connects with the metro and the Palm Island monorail along 11 stops.
Bus
Another way of getting around Dubai is by bus, although the city bus system is not as advanced as the metro. In this case, a Nol card is required to pay for your trips.
Bus stops are usually a kind of cabin with tinted windows, and many of them are air conditioned. This makes waiting outside more bearable in spite of the high temperatures in the country.
Cab
Cabs in Dubai are operated by both public and private companies, although the most economical option is always to opt for the public company, Dubai Taxi. Even so, cabs in Dubai are cheaper than in most other tourist destinations. If you spot a pink cab, you should know that it is reserved exclusively for women.
Although cabs turn on their meters, you can ask for the approximate price of the trip before getting in, as some stops may involve a small surcharge.
Abras
Abras are wooden boats used in Dubai to cross the natural estuary that is Dubai Creek. It is also the most uniquely local means of transportation, and undoubtedly the most effective for crossing these areas. To travel on one of these boats, you don’t need to pay in advance, but you will pay when you climb aboard the abra.
And, if you want to take a tour along the coast of Dubai, you can opt for the ferry.
Rent a car in Dubai
Although Dubai's public transport is well integrated into the city, renting a car is often one of the preferred options among tourists. Car rental in Dubai is quite economical, and gives you the freedom to go wherever and whenever you want without depending on schedules, availability or other unforeseen events.
Keep in mind that you might have to make a lot of trips, since the city is very large. Therefore, renting a car means you can avoid having to pay for different tickets and different means of transportation.
In addition, Dubai has very large and comfortable highways to drive on. You can even visit other nearby cities if you have time to spare. Rent a car in Dubai with OK Mobility, and that way you are not dependent on any other means of transport and you can travel with total freedom from the moment you arrive.
Remember that a trip to Dubai is an unforgettable experience that usually comes around only once in a lifetime. Don't you think it's worth making the most of every minute, worrying only about enjoying yourself?
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