Dubai is an exciting city to visit with new architectural designs, dazzling malls, and a wealth of heritage sites. The good news for anyone planning on taking a car rental service in Dubai is that getting around the city is quite easy since there is a good network of public transport. This guide will also explain when you should avoid public transport and when it is more advisable for you to hire a car in Dubai.
1. The first paper is a general overview of the public transport in Dubai.
Dubai offers various public transport options, including:
- Metro
- Buses
- Trams
- Water Transport
- Taxis
All the modes have their own pros and each of them can be useful in sightseeing in the city.
2. Dubai Metro
The other means of transport that people prefer in Dubai is the Dubai Metro. It is fast, clean, and inexpensive. Here are some key points about the metro:
- Lines: The metro has two principle lines namely Red Line and Green Line. The red line is from Rashidiya to UAE Exchange while the green line is from Etisalat to Dubai Creek.
- Stations: Some of the stations are distributed all over the city and are easily accessible to areas such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai mall and Mall of the emirates.
- Timing: The operations of the metro happen from 6 AM to midnight during the weekdays and until 2 AM during the weekend. It is important to always check the schedule from time to time.
- Fares: In the case of Metro, the cost is relatively low and it depends on the number of stations crossed. There is another means to travel in Dubai, although it may be slightly more expensive, you can purchase a Nol Card – it is a smart card which accepted throughout Dubai as a mode of payment for all kinds of transportation. This can be recharged at the stations that are in the metro stations, bus stands, and at the stores selling food stuffs.
3. Buses
Operating in parallel to the metro system, Dubai has a bus network. For those places that can not be reached by metro, it is advised to use the bus transport systems.
Coverage: It is integrated with all the metro stations hence the bus network operates within and through the entire city.
Comfort: Conventional buses are comfortable with a provision of air conditioning to make the journey as comfortable as possible.
Timing: :The buses are expected to run from 4:30 AM to midnight but they may vary.
Fares
Like the fares of the metro, the fares in the bus also depend on the distance to be travelled by the bus. With a Nol Card, it is easy to pay for the ride.
4. Trams
The Dubai Tram is another outstanding type of transport. It mainly focuses its business activities in the Dubai Marina location.
Route: The tram system is integrated with the metro system at the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) station.
Frequency: Operating trams are available in every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 12-15 minutes during other time.
Fares
Tram fares are as expensive as the metro and bus fares, and you can pay with your Nol Card.
5. Water Transport
One amazing feature that makes travelling in Dubai interesting is through water. You can also use traditional abras, water taxis and the Dubai Water Bus.
Abras: These are wooden and small boats that provide means for crossing over Dubai Creek at an affordable price. It is normally charged in a few dirhams only.
Water Taxis: They are more personal for those people who need a comfortable car for traveling along the coast or creek.
Dubai Water Bus: This service covers different places along the waterfront such as shopping centers and hotel.
Fares
Water transport fares differ with the kind of service rendered. Abras are the cheapest services while water taxis are relatively costly.
6. Taxis
Currently there are many taxis that are in operation in Dubai. They are advantageous because they do not make many stops hence they get to their destination early.
Availability: Taxis can be flagged from the street or ordered through the telephone or through applications.
Pricing: Taxi’s has a metered fare; the initial amount is charged and then added to the amount depending on the distance covered. There is an extra cost for services at night.
Tips for Using Taxis
In every trip, it is recommended to check that the taxi meter is working.
It is wise to have small change with you in order to enable you to give tips.
For transport use online ride hailing services such as Uber and Careem.
7. Renting a Car in Dubai
Nonetheless, opting for the public transport in Dubai is effective at certain occasions a car rental in Dubai is useful. Here are some reasons to consider this option:
- Flexibility: Car rental enables you to travel at your own time and get to places that you would not get to if you were using public transport.
- Convenience: It can be more comfortable if you have luggage or if you’re traveling with your family members.
- Accessibility: It should also be noted that some of the visited places may not be in convenient geographic position in terms of using public transportation.
How to Rent a Car?
Requirements: You need a valid driving license, credit card and normally passport.
Rental Agencies: There are lots of Car Rental Dubai as there are both the international companies as well. Get the prices and reviews before making a booking.
Driving Rules: Most important avoid local traffic laws and always wear your seat belt. The speed limits are quite legal and anything that goes against them is heavily punished.
8. Conclusion
Public transport in Dubai is organized, clean and cheap, so getting around the city is not a problem. When it comes to public transport you can find metro, bus, trams, water transports and even taxi all are available here. But if you are more of a choose your own adventure type of person, and the need for a car with a foreign number plate is not adamant, then, car rental in Dubai is the best option.
Before you plan to visit the centre, think of what you require and what you would like. Have a good time in this amazing city!
