Getting around Dubai - Dubai's Modes of Transport

Taxi*

Taxis are the most common way of getting around. Metered cabs from Dubai Transport Corporation, recognised by their cream colour, are efficient and have well-trained and courteous drivers.

The fare is Dhs 3.00 for pick-up (Dhs 3.50 from 10.00pm to 6.00am), followed by Dhs 1.17 per kilometre. It is also possible to hire a taxi for a 12-hour period for a fixed fee of Dhs 500. Alternatively, Dubai Transport Corporation operates a fixed-fare minibus service to and from the other emirates.

The fares of non-metered taxis are negotiated between driver and passenger, starting at a minimum of around Dh5 for short local journeys, while Dhs 10 to Dhs 15 is the rule of thumb if you cross the Creek from one side of the city to the other.

Dubai Transport taxis also operate a service from the airport. The pick-up fee is Dhs 16 and the fare then accrues at Dhs 1.17 per kilometre.

Most hotels operate transport for their guests. There are also several radio taxi companies which have cars on call and whose numbers are available at all hotels.

*The information about the taxi's prices is general and for your information only and is subject to change without prior notice.

Car-hire

Self-drive cars are available from car rental companies for visitors who have an international driving licence. Renters must produce their passport along with the valid licence.

Visitors without an international driving licence may obtain a temporary local driving licence as long as they hold a valid national licence from one of the following countries: Germany, Spain, Belgium, Austria, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland, France, Switzerland, Greece, Turkey, UK, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Iceland, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. The passport, valid national licence and two photographs are also required.

Driving in the UAE is on the right-hand side.

Roads and highways

Over the past two decades, Dubai has built an impressive network of first-class roads connecting all parts of the city and surrounding areas.

There are two bridges and a tunnel linking the two main districts of Dubai and Deira on either side of the Creek.

Roads to all major towns and villages are excellent and a multi-lane highway heads southwards from the city to Abu Dhabi.

Water taxis

An interesting way to travel between Dubai and Deira is by water taxi across the Creek. The cost of this experience is 50 fils.

Useful tips in Dubai        

• Do not sit in such a way that the soles of your feet are pointing at someone else.
• In Ramadan, never eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours.
• Do not take photographs of military installations or national women.
• Never drink alcohol in public.