How to Get Around Dubai - Tips on Exploring Dubai Using Local Transport Options

 Tipped to be one of the Middle East's most vibrant holiday hotspots, Dubai is no ordinary desert vacation hub. Home to some of the region's finest heritage sites and largest department stores, Dubai is a cultural epicentre that also caters to those in search of more recreational pursuits. Whether one is visiting the dynamic metropolis on a business trip or spending a week-long vacation, here are some tips on how to get around with ease during a stay in the city.

Maurits90, Dubai Alstom Citadis 402, CC0 1.0

1. Stay in a Convenient Location

Regardless of the duration of your getaway in Dubai, those who wish to explore the city with ease would benefit from a centrally located rest. Whether it's the Avani Palm View Dubai or any one of the other hotels near Dubai Expo, the location of your base should provide easy access to some of the major points of interest in the city. If one is unable to secure a strategically located hotel, then the next best option is to stay close to some of the main public transportation hubs around the city whether it's the metro station or bus stops.

 2. Purchase a NOL Card

Every traveller must buy a NOL card upon arriving in Dubai as it is the most efficient way to pay for rides on not only the metro but also the RTA buses, waterbuses and even to pay for RTA parking meters. The  "touch and go" function of the card means that you can top-up your card's value and only need to tap in and tap out at the entrances and exits of various transportation hubs for the fare to be deducted from the NOL card. The card also allows access to Dubai Tram rides and even Abra rides. There are 4 types of NOL cards available for purchase and each caters to a different number of rides and validation periods.

 3. Taxis

First-time visitors may find that getting around Dubai via taxi is the most comfortable and fast way to travel and they would not be wrong. Cab services are available around the clock in Dubai and visitors can pay for their trips using both cash and credit cards. The only downside to relying on taxi services is that it is the most costly way to get around although nearly every taxi is metered and one need not negotiate with cab drivers.

 4. Bus Service

Hopping on a bus is a great way to explore Dubai without breaking the bank and the Roads and Transport Authority manages all bus services in the city. The air-conditioned buses are not only efficient but also comfortable and are available nearly every 20 minutes. Bus terminals 1 and 2 are where travellers can find buses bound for nearly any corner of the city. One cannot pay for bus rides using cash so a NOL card must be on hand. Children below age 5 can travel for free and buses are also available 24 hours a day, around the clock.

 5. Dubai Trams

The Dubai Tram network has been part of the city's landscape since it was first introduced in 2014. Tram services are only accessible from 6 am to 1 am from Monday to Saturday and 9 am to 1 am on Sundays. Although it is a charming way to travel, the network is not so extensive as the bus services or the metro lines and only run 14.5km between Al Sufouh and the Dubai Marina.

6. The Metro

By far the best way to get from Point A to Point B is via the Dubai Metro, which runs in 3 lines and encompasses forty-nine stations. Passengers who wish to switch lines can do so at the Bur Juman Station or Union Station.