travel to dubai by road

Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
Desert Safari.
Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
Luxury Yacht Tour .
Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

What to know when traveling to Dubai - practical information and helpful travel tips for visiting Dubai UAE

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing. After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all. For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

Dubai tips - lazy river at Aquaventure water park

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Mosque - day trip from Dubai

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

Emirati woman baking traditional bread in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

Dubai currency - United Arab Emirates Dirham notes and coins

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

Dubai desert safari - tips and tricks for visiting Dubai

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses Type G plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

Drinking water refill station in Dubai old town

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

Budget: How Expensive is Dubai
Getting around: Public Transport in Dubai
With kids: Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
Fun to do: Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Dubai travel tips and information for first time visitors

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

Driving in Dubai: Tourist Need-to-Know Guide Before Getting Behind the Wheel

Dubai is a vast sprawling city, and whilst the Metro system connects the main tourist attractions relatively well, it’s certainly not all-encompassing of all the major tourist attractions in Dubai. There are likely going to be points on your trip to Dubai where a set of your own wheels will come in handy.

Taxies and rideshare services can, of course, help with those more difficult-to-reach places, but the best way to get around Dubai if you love your freedom is by hiring your own rental car and self-driving.

Dubai Road Rules
Dubai Road Conditions
Dubai Roads Tolls and Charges
Dubai Rental Car Rules
Traffic Accidents in Dubai
Drink Driving in Dubai
Getting Beyond Dubai in your car

Driving in the Dubai Desert

Driving to oman from dubai, driving in dubai: the road rules.

Here are some key things to know about Dubai driving before you consider renting a car in Dubai:

The road networks are extensive, and roads are wide; freeways are often 8 lanes wide, but this is because you are sharing with trucks, buses, and multiple merging lanes. You do need to be a confident driver in Dubai.
With the steering wheel on the left, vehicles in Dubai drive on the right side of the road (like the US and much of Europe).
Speeds are marked in kilometres per hour; your vehicle is likely to only have a speedometer in kms.
Road signs in Dubai are in both Arabic and English and are clear to understand, but having a driving App such as Google Maps or Waze is highly recommended to assist with navigation and getting in the correct lanes! (Get Waze on Google Play | Apple ).
Traffic in Dubai is fast-paced. Speed limits are surprisingly high (and on top of the signed limit, speed cameras will only fine you if you are going more than 20km/hr over the limit!)
Not keen on driving fast? Get out of the overtaking lanes! When driving a multi-lane freeway in a standard sedan vehicle or SUV, avoid driving in the far right lane(s) as these are designated for trucks or slow-moving vehicles with a lower speed limit; the far left lane(s) are FAST. Try and pick a lane right in the middle to allow faster cars to overtake but avoid dodging massive vehicles and merging traffic.
There are many large, multi-lane roundabouts! Sometimes roundabouts are up to 4 lanes wide, which confuses many drivers (sadly, those who’ve lived here for years don’t get them either!); brush up on your skills if you’re not familiar.

sign posted roads in Dubai are clear in English and Arabic

Driving in Dubai: Road Conditions

Generally speaking, the roads in Dubai are in excellent condition, but that doesn’t mean things are always as smooth flowing as they should be. It is, after all, a big city! Here are a few things to consider:

During morning and evening rush hours in Dubai, roads can resemble more of a parking lot. If sitting in a 6-lane traffic jam is not your idea of fun, try setting out after 10:00 AM; most major attractions do not open until this time anyway. Afternoon peak hour is a bit different; it can get super busy all the way from schools finishing around 2:00 PM through until at least 7:00 PM.
Rain – although rare in Dubai – can cause havoc. Road surfaces become like a slippery oil slick, and frankly speaking, most drivers here have had no training in how to drive in these conditions. Most rain showers pass reasonably quickly; however, if it’s a larger storm that can very occasionally hit, we recommend you stay off the roads. Flash flooding is not unheard of, but it’s more the erratic driving of others you may be concerned about.
Fog is another seasonal challenge. It can occur at any time of year but more predominantly overnight and early morning in the winter months . Slow down, don’t use your high beams and keep a consistent speed to help your fellow drivers. And please, don’t be one of those drivers who simply puts their hazard lights on!

Driving in Dubai: Tolls, Charges and Fueling Up

Dubai’s major roads have an automated toll system called Salik . As you pass under a toll barrier, your rental car will be fitted with a small SALIK sticker that will register the charge, which you should expect the rental company to onward charge to you at the conclusion of your rental.
Speed cameras are everywhere! As we mentioned above, the limits can be a little deceiving due to the 20km/hr buffer, but go over that and expect a stiff penalty, as you’ll be charged for going more than 20km/hr over the limit! These fines start from AED 600 (do NOT leave an unpaid fine! If you do, you could run into serious trouble if you come through Dubai again). You will likely have an admin fee to pay your rental company too.
Fuel in Dubai , as you might imagine, is in plentiful supply! Prices were deregulated a few years ago, so they have risen substantially since the glory days; however, fuel is still relatively cheap compared to other parts of the world where fuel is heavily taxed. Expect between AED 2.50 to 3.00 a litre, depending on what type of fuel. The price is set at the start of each month. (NB since 2022, this price has crept up closer to 4 AED per litre, ouch!)
At the pump, you can choose between E-plus, Special-95, Super-98 and diesel. Check if your hire company has specified what fuel to use – especially if you’ve hired a luxury vehicle . And it should go without saying, only every put diesel in a diesel car!
Fuel stations used to be full service, but this has flipped over the last few years to more becoming self-service , so do be prepared to get out of your car even if it’s 45 ° C out!

Driving in Dubai: Rental Car Rules

It is easy to pick up rental cars in Dubai both from the airport and many locations around the city. It’s a highly competitive car rental market, as many residents in Dubai rent their vehicles on a long-term monthly basis. Here are a few things to bear in mind renting your car as a tourist in Dubai.

You will also need your passport and your tourist visa to hire a car in Dubai.
To hire a car, you will need a driver’s license. This does not need to be an international driver’s permit if you are from:

Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Britain, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Malaysia, Netherland, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the USA. With English translation – South Korea, Slovakia, Japan and Quebec.

For these countries, just present a copy of your driver’s license that you’ve held for at least 12 months. If your driver’s license is from any other country, you will need an International Driver’s Permit .

Even though the local driving age is 18, you’ll find for hire car companies, you need to be at least 21 years old, and in some instances, they’ll only hire to those over 25.
Nearly all cars are automatic transmissions but do check this when booking.
You really get what you pay for in terms of vehicle class/size. If you are just a single/couple you might be happy with a small Nissan Sunny, but when you see the traffic conditions, you may well feel a little safer in a larger vehicle! SUVs and 4WD are by far the norm in Dubai and the UAE, though they really aren’t that economical to run.
Electric cars do exist in Dubai, but their use is still not prevalent. You can look into ekar for on-demand car hire.

Recommended Car Rentals in Dubai : We always start our search using services such as rentalcars.com or discovercars.com to find rates and companies. Once you start narrowing things down, you might find with airline loyalty programs and the like you can hire cheaper going direct.

What about borrowing a friend’s car in Dubai? See this article from the National detailing the latest guidance on this matter – it basically comes down to whether the vehicle insurer will allow an international driver under the policy.

Driving in Dubai: Traffic Accidents in Dubai

Should the worst happen and you are involved in an accident, there are important steps you should be aware of ahead of time.

Renting a car, you will always have an element of insurance included, and you’ll be given an emergency contact number by the hire car company you need to contact in the event of an accident. Remember, this basic insurance may only cover 3rd party costs.

Always check if your travel insurance will cover you for things such as automobile accidents, personal injury or damage to personal property if you’ll be renting a car in Dubai.

There’s no longer a required police attendance for minor collisions. Minor traffic accidents are reported to the police using an app. This is a necessary step for both parties to claim on insurance; there is always a culpable party.

Download the Dubai police App here for Google Play | Apple .

If you cannot find the other party (unfortunately, car park dings and bumps do happen, and it’s not always caught on CCTV), then you will have to pay for filing the police report and will be seen “at fault”; this can’t be done with the app as you need to enter details for two vehicles, you’ll need to find the nearest police station (NB – many of the Malls have police stations in the car park!)

Serious collisions involving injury and hospitalisation are a little different. An ambulance and police should be requested immediately by dialling 999.

Not to scare anyone off driving completely, but it can be standard practice in the case of a serious vehicle collision where you are believed to have caused the accident to be sent to jail until such time as the other party is out of the hospital or the police have determined culpability. This is why it’s important to know your Dubai do’s and don’ts .

Driving in Dubai: Drink Driving

Driving with any alcohol in your system in Dubai is strictly prohibited. Whilst alcohol is permitted for consumption in Dubai in licensed venues, stick away from the car, even if you’ve had just one drink.

The traffic police are NOT regularly running random breath tests on the side of the road as you’ll find in many other countries, it’s about what happens if you are in an accident.

If you are caught with alcohol in your system, even if it’s from the night before, you can be fairly certain you’ll earn yourself some jail time and face some pretty serious repercussions.

If you do end up having a drink and don’t want to leave your car stranded somewhere, look for services that will send a driver to come to you and take you and your vehicle safely home. Try:

Pikmycar.com
thedriver.ae

Just confirm if this is allowed with your rental car company, rules can be strict on who the driver is.

Driving in the UAE: Getting Beyond Dubai in Your Car

Part of the beauty of renting a car for your trip to Dubai is the freedom to enjoy day trips to the other Emirates .

The road rules are broadly the same wherever you go in the UAE, and there’s no problem taking a hire car from one Emirate to another.

Heading to the northern Emirates, you will not even notice the change (though some have a slightly different “buffer” on how far over the speed limit you can drive). The only difference you may see is a change in road surface!

There are just a few notable differences driving into Abu Dhabi emirate. If you are day tripping to Abu Dhabi (including the historic city of Al Ain ), you’ll need to note:

The hard border that was put in place during COVID times has been completely abolished. You can learn whether border restrictions are currently in place here .
The marked speed limits work differently! The freeways as you enter jump to 140 km/hr, but anything over this, you will be fined; the “Dubai buffer” of 20 km/hr does not exist! Fines here start from AED 300 for going more than 10km/hr over the limit.
The major freeways leading onto Abu Dhabi island have toll gates in operation during peak driving hours. Unlike the Salik system in Dubai, there’s no sticker on your car or audible beep, not any toll booth to pass by and pay cash. The DARB toll gate system uses number plate recognition. If you travel under one of these toll gates at the designated times, it will be charged back to your hire car company.

With an off-road vehicle, it is possible to do your own dune bashing in the Dubai desert IF it is allowed with your rental car policy. Here are some desert driving tips to be aware of:

Never hit the desert dunes without other experienced drivers around you and the correct safety gear in your car. For obvious safety reasons, it’s easy to get stuck out in the dunes and even flip your vehicle if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Some easier parts of the Dubai desert you can hit that will still work in 2WD include the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve , where you’ll find Al Qudra Lakes and the famous Love Lakes .
Yes, you may well encounter camels ! Drive slowly and give them the right of way (though note, even in some of the Northern Emirates, we’ve encountered camels randomly walking along the roads, nowhere near the desert! Slow down, take some snaps and let them go about their business).
If you’re after the bigger thrills and spills, though, this is the one part of your trip where we thoroughly recommend you let the professionals take over . Part of your Dubai desert tour package will include a hotel pick-up in an air-conditioned 4WD and a highly experienced desert dunes driver – please let them do the hard work!

It is possible to drive into parts of Oman from Dubai, fun and exciting addition to your Dubai trip. The Musandam Peninsula exclave is the easiest to reach or head south to the mountains.

You DO need permission or your rental car company to do this as ownership papers are required at the border crossing points, as is insurance for driving in Oman (and in the current climate, PCR test/Vaccine evidence).

Certainly not the simplest of experiences as it sued to be! But still doable. See a detailed guide here on how to drive from Dubai to Oman .

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to all the best Dubai travel tips

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

13 Best Places to Drive in Dubai – Exploring Dubai by Car

Many people have this idea that million-plus cities are among the worst to drive in. Well, maybe. But that’s definitely not about Dubai. With fantastic roads, strict traffic laws, ample parking, and lots of cool places to drive in Dubai, getting a car and going on a ride through the city is very enjoyable.

I remember when Mark and I just arrived in Dubai in November to spend winter, we initially thought that driving here was stressful and tough. At least this is how it looked like through the taxi window on the night of arrival as we rushed along a busy highway.

But our opinion quickly changed and just after a few days into our stay we rented a car to drive around. Since then, the car became our best friend and we drove all over Dubai and the entire UAE.

And you know what I learned? That despite a popular belief (for some reason) that Dubai is best to explore by taxi or by metro, it is actually much cheaper and more convenient to get around here by car.

There are many incredible places to go for a drive in Dubai, many attractions where metro and bus don’t go, and just many highlights of the city where it is easy to drive to.

This is why I wanted to share my favorite and simply the best places to visit in Dubai by car to give you a few ideas. Get inspired and have a great time!

Where to Rent a Car to Drive in Dubai?

From our experience, the best companies to rent a car in Dubai are LocalRent and DiscoverCars .

The first aggregator works with local agents and offers car rentals anywhere in Dubai outside the airport. They proved themselves as reliable, transparent and always have good prices. It is very convenient to book through them if you need to hire a car in Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, downtown area, Deira, or anywhere else. They offer cars in other emirates too and can deliver a vehicle to your address for a small fee.

DiscoverCars is perfect for airport rentals. I like how they find the best deals available at the airport and don’t have any hidden fees.

If you would like to learn more about car hire and driving in Dubai, then see my other post with all the details about the best car rental in Dubai .

Is It Easy to Drive in Dubai?

Yes, driving in Dubai is easy and enjoyable. This city was designed for automobiles and drivers are more or less predictable. The quality of roads is excellent with clear signage and traffic is well-organized.

The most difficult part of driving during the first few days is navigating through tricky interchanges. It can be easy to miss the right exit or take the right lane. But if you follow the signs (google maps navigator is not always exact), you’ll adapt quickly.

Parking is widely available and lots of it is free. All these places to visit in Dubai by car offer free parking and getting to them is easy from any part of the city. There is just one place on my list where parking is paid and I mention that. For more tips about free parking in Dubai , I have another post.

When we travel abroad, especially with the car, we prefer to stay connected with reliable simcards. I recommend you do the same.

Pre-Order Your Simcard for the UAE

My Top Spots & Best Places to Drive in Dubai City

So here is my list of the best places to visit in Dubai when you have a rental car . I decided to include all the incredible Dubai attractions that are far from the metro (okay, except for one iconic spot where you can come by subway, but visiting by car just saves you a lot of time).

Getting to them by public transport is time-consuming, taking a taxi can cost a fortune. But if you have a car, that opens up an opportunity to see more in one day.

And if you combine all these places in one trip, you’ll get one long nice drive in Dubai.

Dubai Creek Harbor

I would like to start my list of the best places to visit in Dubai by car with my favorite waterfront community Dubai Creek Harbor. It is an incredible project located between Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and Festival City that is among short drive places in Dubai.

I remember how in the recent past this area looked more like a continuous swamp with reeds but today it is a self-sufficient community with many shops, homes, offices, restaurants, lovely hotels, and a beautiful promenade with the best panorama of Dubai. It is not finished yet and more construction projects are still well under way but regardless of that, there are plenty of things to do around.

By visiting this area, you can indulge in retail and gourmet therapy while walking on shopping boulevards and checking out entertainment options with the finest restaurants. Pop into Mondoux with the extensive menu or Vida Creek hotel restaurant on the second floor with incredible views.

If you prefer to keep it more on a budget, then come to the Dubai Creek Harbor promenade to see the Dubai skyline with a clear view of Burj Khalifa. Or just walk around taking photos with various modern structures and the marina. There is also a playground for kids to keep little travelers entertained.

I recommend you visit it on a separate trip since you can easily spend half or even a full day there. Otherwise, if not having a lot of time, come slightly before the sunset. The view of Dubai against the red sky is simply breathtaking.

Parking is available and free, it’s right by the Harbor Walk Shopping Center.

Dubai Festival City Mall

Dubai Festival City Mall is a popular shopping mall in Dubai that got its large popularity due to the fact that it is located in the walking area.

The mall, although not the largest, is still pretty big and has more than three hundred shops, 90 restaurants, lots of entertainment and activities. People come here both for shopping, for a walk, to dine in the restaurant, or spend the entire day checking out all the attractions. Various events or holiday celebrations, shows and flash mobs regularly take place here.

I am not a big fan of malls, but this one quickly became one of my favorites because of its unique evening laser and fountain shows, dhow rides, Ferris wheel, long boardwalk by Dubai Creek, and holidays fireworks. From time to time Mark and I love coming here to watch a movie in their large cinema, get a dessert in a cool robotic cafe on the first floor, and dine while watching the IMAGINE show.

Even if you don’t like shopping, come to this mall to spend a few hours or half a day to create memories amidst a backdrop of the gorgeous Dubai skyline. And if you feel like spending a night, book yourself a room in InterContinetal famous for a hanging pool with transparent bottom or Crowne Plaza by the waterfront .

It is better to come in the evenings. There are a lot of people at this time but laser shows of dancing fountains are starting at 6 pm.

Parking is ample and free in the underground garage of the mall. For more details and what is happening in Dubai Festival City, check the mall’s website .

JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) is a residential area located between the Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island. The main things it is famous for are a free long beach which is quite popular among the residents of this micro-district and a beautiful pedestrian promenade Jumeirah Beach Walk.

In 2015, the beach underwent major changes. It ceased to be “wild” and was equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay for tourists and local residents. Entrance to the beach is free, but many activities, sunbeds and umbrellas require payment which is pretty high.

Between the beach and apartment complexes is a promenade with all kinds of stores, souvenir shops, and catering points – restaurants with cuisine from around the world, cafes and eateries. The boardwalk offers lots of benches and palm trees where to walk in the shade and relax.

I can’t say that JBR is my favorite spot in Dubai, no. Yet once in a while, I love coming here to walk between tall apartment buildings, get a bite in one of the cafes and watch the sunset over the tallest Ferris wheel in the world Ain Dubai. And after JBR, slowly move to Dubai Marina or even further to Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Both of them have much more to offer.

While you can easily come to JBR by metro, it is much more convenient to do it by car considering a fact that there is free parking nearby. I am dropping coordinates for you to see where free parking is. It’s near Zero Gravity on a big sand parking lot. It takes only a few minutes to walk to the beginning of JBR boardwalk but if you feel like being closer, there is also paid underground parking near JBR beach.

Soho Garden DXB

Soho Garden DXB is a cool entertainment destination in Dubai that brings the soul of London’s Soho to the most extravagant city in the UAE.

It is here where you’ll find an array of restaurants, bars, and nightlife experiences that have their own vibe different from any other part of Dubai. But besides dining venues and nightclubs, there is also a recently opened swimming pool and concert hall.

Soho Garden is the place where to dine, spend time by the pool, have a drink in a bar, or have fun in the nightclub.

The complex, which area is 14 thousand square meters, is only a 15-minute drive from the Dubai downtown. So it is easy to get here on your Dubai road trip through the city or make a separate visit during the day or night.

Dubai City Walk

City Walk Dubai is a relatively new residential area in Dubai, built on the principle of “city within the city”. It is located in the Al-Safa neighborhood on Al Wasl Road, near the main street Sheikh Zayed Road, a 20-minute walk to The Dubai Mall and many hotels.

Within City Walk limits you’ll find a huge shopping area with a big entertainment venue as well as many restaurants and bars.

The territory of the complex is divided into two parts and has its own underground parking lot free to visitors. Two parts of the complex comfortably house brand shops, fashionable restaurants, inexpensive cafes, creative bars, a fitness club, SPA, children’s entertainment area, educational centers, and much, much more.

Due to the fact that there is also a square for holding mass events, City Walk often serves as a place for various celebrations. Like Christmas concerts, UAE national day events, the end of Ramadan celebration (as well as other holidays) all take place here.

I like coming here just to hang out on the territory (because the streets of the City Walk shopping area resemble European streets), get a drink in one of the cafes, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Yes, despite the huge range of entertainment options, City Walk is pretty quiet and never too crowded.

Also, from here you get to see Burj Khalifa which serves as a beautiful background for the photos. And if you feel like you need more activity, don’t miss a nearby tropical rainforest at The Green Planet.

Dubai Mall was definitely going to make this list since reaching it by car is easy and parking is available to all. Being the largest shopping center not only in Dubai but also in the world, it is worth including it in every Dubai itinerary . Especially if you are planning to go on a drive through the city.

This mall is not just a mall. It is a real city where, in addition to shops and dining venues, there is its own entertainment, multiple play areas, aquarium, dancing fountains, and the tallest building in the world. People come here to spend time with the whole family and know it as one of the biggest attractions in all seven emirates of the UAE .

There are about 1200 stores where you can buy absolutely anything – from clothing and footwear from Europe, Asia and the Arab countries to books, electronics, interior items, and household goods. Additionally to that, there are several grocery supermarkets, telecom stores, ATMs and currency exchange offices.

In fact, people mainly come to Dubai Mall not so much for the shopping as for leisure. Among the most remarkable attractions are a large children’s center “KidZania”, a virtual reality center, a huge cinema with 26 movie halls, aquarium, indoor skating rink, choreographed performing fountains, and of course the tallest building Burj Khalifa. You can also go diving, feed the sharks, or ride the virtual roller coaster.

And in the end of the day, pop into GIA Italian restaurant or L’ETO cafe from where you can watch a show of fountains.

The mall has its own five-star hotel and large underground parking. The first two hours of parking are free and after that, you need to pay. An alternative way to park your car for free would be at the Dubai Opera. It is only a short walk away from the mall and Burj Park.

Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah or as some people call it Dubai Venice is a modern Arabian-style neighborhood adjacent to the Burj Al Arab Hotel and Wild Wadi Water Park. It is an elite resort in Dubai and also a tourist attraction. There are 40 hectares of parks and gardens, four luxury 5-star hotels, villas, and summer houses for a longer stay.

But anyone can visit on a day trip in Dubai to shop, dine, or walk through its territory.

Madinat Jumeirah has more than 70 shops, 20 cafes, restaurants and bars for every taste, a nightclub, and an open amphitheater Madinat Arena which hosts performances from time to time. There is also a market that is not an ordinary shopping arcade, but a real tourist attraction. It combines the architecture of the old oriental bazaar with modern boutiques.

It is here where you get one of the best views of Burj Al Arab Hotel, so this is why a huge number of tourists come here particularly for photo sessions with this 7-star hotel in the background. Among other attractions are sailing on “abra” boats through the canals and visit to a private beach.

If you are traveling more on a budget and are not ready to spend money, you can visit Madinat Jumeirah just to walk around, take photos, and stroll around looking at shop windows and architectural solutions. It is still a nice place where to spend a couple of hours on a drive along the Dubai coastline.

Parking inside Madinat Jumeirah is for the payment but you can leave a car near the mall on the sand and walk for less than 10 minutes. On the walk, you can also get another glimpse of Burj Al Arab hotel in close proximity.

La Mer

Another incredibly lovely place to visit in Dubai by car since there is no metro around and there are only a few bus routes covering this area.

La Mer is a relatively new coastal quarter built in 2018 in the Jumeirah-1 area. Being a multifunctional 2.5-kilometer long complex, it also has a beautiful beach that overshadows other beaches of Dubai. It is equipped with 1,100 parking spaces, numerous stationary and portable chargers for cars and gadgets, modern comfortable recreation areas, and a wide variety of entertainment options.

Everyone here will be able to find entertainment to their liking as La Mer is really big and consists of 4 conventional zones.

After soaking up the gentle sun and swimming in the Persian Gulf, you should definitely stroll along the shopping boulevard with restaurants, cafes, bars, and stores.

If I could explain shortly, I’d say that La Mer is a unique corner where nature, resort and outdoor activities merge. It has all the necessary elements for a comfortable visit – caring staff, services for your convenience, entertainment, watersports, and several options for food and shopping.

You can come here more than once and absolutely in any company – with family, friends or on a romantic walk. And I guarantee you’ll love this place!

Psst : Near the north entrance to La Mer is Jumeirah Mosque where free daily excursions are offered to everyone. They start every day at 10 am.

One of my favorite walkable waterfront destinations (and beaches) at Palm Jumeirah is best to visit by car. Make a stop here either on a Dubai road trip or come here on a separate trip to spend a day.

Underground parking is free and ample, so you can come at any time and season and always find a spot to leave your car (besides national holidays and NY celebrations).

West Beach is Dubai’s new beach (opened just in the fall of 2020) with a beautiful walking area, outstanding skyline, and excellent restaurants by the water. You can come specifically to the beach, on a leisure walk to take instagrammable photos, or on a day pass to a nearby hotel. I know that Fairmont the Palm and Dukes the Palm offer pool passes where the entrance fee includes credit to spend on food and drinks.

Being 1.6 km long, the West Beach area’s beach is wide and sandy with water sports centers surrounding it. 300 palm trees planted along the walking and jogging paths create a pleasant shade where to hide from sun during the day. And since it faces west, West Beach is the best place where to watch the sunset in Dubai.

And if you get to make a stop here, don’t miss Jones the Grocer restaurant . Having multiple excellent reviews from others, it quickly became one of my favorite dining establishments where to catch a breeze and do some laptop work with Dubai views in the background. See photos below.

Global Village

Global Village is another place to drive in Dubai where you can spend an entire evening. It is one of the oldest attractions in Dubai in a form of a huge thematic park with 90 thematic pavilions dedicated to different countries of the world. You’ll also find there a mini amusement park, lots of food stalls, and various entertainment facilities.

According to the idea, each participating country had to build its own pavilion to acquaint the visitor with the life and cultural traditions of its people, demonstrate and offer ethnic attributes, outfits, goods and souvenirs.

This is a bright and interesting fair with the number of pavilions today exceeding 27 and the number of participating countries 75. Everywhere you go, you hear folk music, find dishes of different world cuisines and can watch various cultural events. On the territory of the village, there are also miniature constructions imitating popular sights from all over the world.

Reaching this park by public transport is hard. But if you have a car, it won’t be of any problem. It is only a short drive from anywhere in Dubai and you can stop here on the way back from the desert since the opening hour is at 4 pm.

One more fancy shopping and entertainment complex on my list which is easiest to visit in Dubai by car. However, this is only one of a couple of centers of this type in the UAE where parking is not free. The first hour costs 20 AED and every other hour 10 AED. But if you dine at the restaurant where a bill equals 100 AED, the first 3 hours of parking are free.

The Pointe is located five kilometers off the coast of Dubai on the Palm Jumeirah island. It is perpendicular to Atlantis and has a 1.5-kilometer promenade with more than 80 restaurants, cafes, boutiques, children’s entertainment centers, its own beach, and a cinema with restaurant service.

This is a real paradise for those who love shopping, delicious food, and entertainment. Although many people come here mainly for the view of Atlantis (this is the closest view you can get) and to watch a show of the highest dancing fountains.

Yes, The Pointe is home to the largest fountain complex in the world with an area of 1350 sq. meters. It is here, not in Dubai Mall, where the jets of the fountains rise to a height of over 100 meters. All of this is illuminated by 3000 projectors and accompanied by all kinds of musical compositions from Arabic to classical. With more than 20 different performances you can come to watch a fountain show every day.

Among other things to do are watersports, fishing tours, hitting the beach (also with the view of Atlantis), and of course doing lots of shopping.

The Boardwalk at Palm Jumeirah

The waterfront promenade on Palm Jumeirah’s artificial island is a wide boardwalk 11 kilometers long. It stretches along the coast of the Arabian Gulf from One&Only hotel to the Rixos The Palm resort.

The entire promenade offers different views – those of the sea, Dubai skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and residences. Parts of the walk boast food trucks and glass-encased cafes. If you have a car, making a stop anywhere on the boardwalk is a great option for relaxation after a tour of the island. Also, it is a good place to drive to before heading to/from The Pointe.

My favorite things to do at Palm Jumeirah’s boardwalk are a trip to Atlantis aquarium and one of the hotels that offer day passes. And in the early evening, the area between the One&only hotel and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is one of my favorite spots for catching the Dubai sunset.

If you are visiting Dubai from April to October, the best time for the boardwalk at Palm Jumeirah is in the early morning or at least after 4 pm. If coming to the walking area at lunchtime or in the afternoon, do not forget a hat, choose light-colored clothes, and be sure to take a bottle of water since it is very hot there during this time.

Parking is free anywhere along the boardwalk but it is always busy around the sunset time on the Western side.

NOTE : The best way to get here is by car when driving in Dubai. Taxis are quite expensive since they use a special rate for this part of Palm Jumeirah.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Miracle Garden is one of the world’s largest flower parks which, in just a few years of its operation, has managed to earn the attention of the world community, and has become one of the key attractions in Dubai.

Apart from the fact that the scale of Miracle Garden is staggering, it is also striking that it is located far from the coastal part of the emirate practically in the middle of the desert. It is easy to reach it on a short drive from Dubai downtown, Jumeirah, the Palm, Deira or any other part of Dubai.

This garden is not a classic botanical garden that you may think of. It is also not a greenhouse in the traditional sense of this world. Miracle Garden is rather a collection of numerous examples of floristic art.

The opening of this amazing site was timed to coincide with Valentine’s Day celebrations on February 14, 2013. From that very moment, the garden became one of the most romantic attractions not only in the UAE but in the entire Middle East. Since then, the complex has gone through a few changes and improved.

The territory of the complex is huge. It occupies a gigantic area of 72 thousand square meters and has more than 45 million flowers of 70 species, its own lake, and amazing figures created by virtuoso geniuses of floristic sculpture.

The garden contains a truly incredible variety of plant compositions that you won’t be able to find in the Gulf region and neighboring countries. In addition, on the territory, you can see many flower beds and alleys, arches and impromptu waterfalls, giant flower clocks and fantastic monuments.

Price is 55 AED for adults and 40 AED for children but it is well worth it paying it to see all that beauty.

This is my list of the best places to see in Dubai with a rental car. I have many more posts about Dubai and UAE travel, check them all on my destination page !

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

9 Tips For Where to Find Free Parking in Dubai

Is it possible to find free parking in Dubai? Yes and yes. You just need to know where to look for it. Before I rented my first car in Dubai, I did a lot…

Visiting Dubai For the First Time: 21 Incredible Must-Do Things + My Top Travel Tips

When visiting Dubai for the first time, it is really easy to get lost. This large city has so much, starting from futuristic landscapes of the future and finishing with unique details of the…

Guide to Renting a Car & Driving in Dubai, UAE – Things to Know & Avoid

When Anya and I decided to come to the UAE to spend the winter, we knew from the beginning that renting a car in Dubai was our only option if we wanted to see…

Long Weekend in Dubai Itinerary – How to Make the Most of Your 3 Days in Dubai

Are you looking to spend your long weekend in Dubai? In this comprehensive guide, I have got for you a suggested 3 days in Dubai itinerary along with some valuable tips to make the…

Guide to 7 Emirates of UAE – What to Expect From Each of Them

It took me a while to come up with a topic for my first post about the United Arab Emirates. But after spending some time brainstorming the ideas, I finally decided why not to…

Thanks Anya for the description of things and travel by car. Am planning a trip to Dubai and will avail a rental car . This is my 2nd visit. Do the canadians require an International License to drive a rental car in Dubai or anywhere in UAE. Have plans to visit Abu Dhabi and other eastern cities . And how safe is to travel by car.

Customers from the following countries can drive in the United Arab Emirates without an International Driving Permit: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United States of America. So you don’t need to worry about it.

Traveling by car in UAE is very safe. Enjoy your trip!

Traveling to UAE by Road on a Visit Visa

Written By Arabiers Digital & Reviewed by Khalid Al Suwaidi

August 04, 2023 | 13 min read

If you plan on driving into the UAE from neighboring countries, knowing the requirements for driving on a visit visa is essential. Visitors in the UAE require a valid visit visa, an international driving permit, and valid vehicle insurance. This blog will cover all the details you must be aware of before planning a road trip to the UAE with your visiting visa for UAE.

How to Obtain a UAE Visiting Visa

Valid Driving License for Travel in UAE

Driving safety and road emergencies in uae, extension of uae visas, how to obtain a visiting visa.

The first step to visiting the UAE by road is to obtain the necessary visa. Fortunately, the process is straightforward and can be done online at the UAE government website or through a reliable visa provider like Arabiers. The visa application requires basic information, such as your passport details, travel dates, and purpose of the visit. You must also submit scanned copies of your passport and photo taken against a white background.

Once you've submitted your application, you'll receive confirmation of your application via email. The approval process typically takes a few business days. It's always recommended to apply for your visa in advance and check for updates frequently.

Travelers from Oman can also apply for their UAE visa from Oman by road at the border, just like how travelers can apply for an Oman visa from Dubai by road at the border. Similarly, travelers from Saudi can also get their UAE visa by road from the Saudi-UAE border.

Driving in the UAE requires a valid license and a visit visa. Visitors can use their valid driving licenses issued by their home countries if their license is eligible for driving in the UAE. Citizens from certain countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States can drive with their driving license issued by their home countries.

Residents of GCC countries can drive in the UAE with their driving license issued by their country.

Before hitting the road, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the driving safety regulations and responses to road accidents in the UAE. The UAE government website provides information on driving safely on their roads, including rules and regulations to follow. It's recommended to read up on driving etiquette and take caution when driving on the highways and city streets.

If you're planning to drive in the UAE, knowing the rules and safety steps is crucial to have a safe and enjoyable time on the road. To prevent any problems, it's necessary to follow the government's traffic laws. Here are some driving safety tips we suggest:

If there's an accident, call the police right away at 999. They'll guide you and make the area safe. If no one's hurt, you can move your car to the side to avoid blocking traffic. Listen to the police and stay at the scene.

Stick to speed limits, and don't drive after drinking alcohol. Going too fast can lead to significant fines and losing your license. The UAE doesn't allow driving under the influence of alcohol.

Don't use your phone while driving, even for texting. It's against the law to talk on the phone while driving in the UAE. Put your phone away. If you need to answer calls, use a hands-free device or ask a passenger.

Check your tires often, about every two weeks, as recommended by the UAE's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Good tire condition keeps you and others safe. Under-inflated tires are dangerous and can cause accidents.

The UAE has a system where you get black points for breaking traffic rules. Your license can be taken away if you collect too many black points. This system is to make sure everyone follows the traffic laws. To avoid getting black points, follow the rules carefully.

If you're enjoying your time in the UAE and wish to extend your visit, consider several options to prolong your stay. Understanding the available avenues for extending your visit visa can offer you the flexibility to make the most of your time in this vibrant and diverse country. Here, we'll discuss two popular methods for extending your visit visa, offering insights into each approach to help you make an informed decision.

Renewing Your Prepaid Tourist Visa Twice:

If you possess a prepaid tourist visa sponsored by an airline or tour operator, you can extend your stay by renewing the visa twice. Each renewal grants an additional 30 days, allowing you to prolong your visit. It's essential to stay informed about potential changes due to recent reforms, as this option might be affected. This approach provides a convenient way to extend your stay without the requirement to leave the country.

Dubai Visa Run to Oman:

The "Dubai Visa Run" is an alternative method for extending your visit visa by taking a short trip to Oman and then returning to the UAE. This self-drive option involves exiting the UAE through Oman's borders and reentering later. Depending on your nationality and visa type, you can obtain an on-arrival or prepaid visa upon re-entry. This option is prevalent among on-arrival visa holders, allowing them to secure an additional 30-day visa extension for free. Similarly, individuals with a 90-day on-arrival visa can use this approach to acquire a prepaid visa after leaving Oman.

Visiting the UAE by road on a visit visa can be an exciting and convenient way to travel to the country. However, it's crucial to know the requirements for driving, including having a valid visit visa, an international driving permit, and valid vehicle insurance. In addition to these requirements, make sure you're familiar with the UAE's driving safety regulations and responses to road emergencies. Finally, if you're enjoying your stay and want to extend your visit, the process is simple and can be done with the help of a UAE resident sponsor.

Robeena Brown

It’s been amazing journey collecting, organizing & publishing UAE travel related information. We often hear our guests says it was some thing useful when I found Arabiers, that give me motivation to sit hours & hours with subject experts to extract right information that are useful but updated. I would love to write some thing that useful for any travelers, Recidents & locals, we at Arabiers trying our level best provide right information & aiming at updating our information page as much as we can, looking forward your feedback.

See author's posts

Other languages
Accessibility

Information and services
About the UAE
Passports and travelling

Modes of travel

One can travel out of the UAE by road, sea or air. Find out more.

Travelling by road

Travelling by air, travelling by sea.

The UAE's roads connect to the neighbouring countries of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Sultanate of Oman. There are several crossing points along the borders; some are exclusive to GCC citizens. You can travel to KSA and Oman by private car or by public transportation buses operated by government bodies/companies.

The UAE's national airline is Etihad Airways . It flies from and to Abu Dhabi. Other airlines in the UAE are:

Emirates and its low-cost carrier partner FlyDubai - Emirates flies from and to Dubai International Airport. FlyDubai departs from and arrive at both: Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport.
Air Arabia - It flies from and to Sharjah International Airport. It is the first and the largest Low Cost Carrier (LCC) in the Middle East and North Africa.
Rotana Jet - Established in late 2010 by H. H. Dr. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saif Al Nahyan, Rotana Jet operates both executive charter and scheduled airline services. The airline offers operates domestic and international services from and to Abu Dhabi.
Royal Jet - Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Royal Jet operates chartered flights and flies from and to Zayed International Airport.
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi was established in 2019 as a joint-venture between Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways and Sharjah's Air Arabia . In April 2020, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi received its ‘Air Operating Certificate’ (AOC), which allows it to start operating from Abu Dhabi as the UAE’s fifth airline . Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will operate from Zayed International Airport as a low-cost passenger airline, following the business model of Air Arabia.
Wizz Air Abu Dhab i - Based at Zayed International Airport, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is the 6th national airline of the UAE. It offers low-cost economic travel from Abu Dhabi and Dubai to a number of countries in the Middle East, Europe and Asia.

Read about booking air tickets, hotels and itineraries.

Several international cruise liners have added the UAE as a stop on their itineraries. You can cruise out of the UAE through one of the following seaports:

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal , Zayed Port
Port Rashid , Dubai
Port Khalid , Sharjah.

Was this information helpful?

Give us your feedback so we can improve your experience.

Thank you for submitting your feedback.

North America

Albuquerque
Fort Lauderdale
Indianapolis
Los Angeles
New Orleans
New York City
Palm Springs
Philadelphia
Salt Lake City
San Antonio
San Francisco
Santa Monica
Virginia Beach
Washington, D.C.

Latin America + The Caribbean

Buenos Aires
Dominican Republic
Grand Cayman
Mexico City
Panama City
Puerto Rico
Puerto Vallarta
Punta de Mita
Rio de Janeiro

Asia Pacific

Africa + middle east.

Johannesburg
Couples + Family
Culture + Style
Eat + Drink
Health + Fitness

Tips + Trends

Road trip from Dubai to the Empty Quarter.

Outta Here! Best Road Trips From Dubai

Fort al hamily at liwa oasis on the edge of the empty quarter (photo: hemis / alamy stock photo).

If you’re like most travelers to the United Arab Emirates, you’ll never venture beyond the safe embrace of its skyscraper-strewn cities. But that’s not you , right? You’re ready to put the pedal to the metal and discover the wealth of spectacular scenery that lies an easy drive from Dubai — from desert plains and dramatic fjords to lush oases, lofty dunes and more.

On the practical side, you’ll find first-rate roads, cheap fuel and fuss-free car rental. So summon your inner explorer, grab your International Driving Permit — a must-have here — and leave Dubai in the (sand) dust on one of these unforgettable road trips.

Desert: From Dubai to Liwa

The most rewarding of road trip s in Dubai is along sand-swept highways to remote Liwa — one of the Arabian Peninsula’s largest oases, on the edge of the Empty Quarter (the world’s largest contiguous sand desert). While Emiratis and expats associate this awe-inspiring part of Arabia with legendary explorer Wilfred Thesiger — the first to cross these colossal dunes on camel and foot — modern-day adventurers will recognize the 650-foot-high dunes from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” filmed here in 2014.

Distance/Duration: 230 miles/3 hours 45 minutes

Tip: Read Thesiger’s “Arabian Sands” (1959) for an appreciation of this inhospitable land.

Fjords: Dubai to Khasab, on the Musandam Peninsula in Oman

OK, so the Musandam Peninsula is not technically in the UAE (it’s an enclave of Oman). Still, this drive from Dubai to Khasab is one of the most jaw-dropping on the Arabian Peninsula. From the UAE-Oman border, the winding road hugs the coast — and each turn reveals yet another tranquil bay where fishermen mend nets and locals cross the beach to buy fresh seafood from the boats.

Distance/Duration: 122 miles/3 hours

Tip: Stay a night in Khasab for a dhow cruise and dolphin spotting — and, if you’re brave, an edge-of-your-seat, four-wheel-drive tour toward the heady peaks of 6,260-foot Jebel Harim mountain.

Bonus tip: When hiring a car in Dubai, make sure the rental agency allows their vehicles to be driven into the Omani enclave — some companies don’t.

Oasis: Dubai to Al Ain

If you do only one road trip in the UAE, one of the best places to visit near Dubai is laidback Al Ain. Put the car in cruise control on the smooth, straight stretch of blacktop and focus on spotting some camels. (Those “ships of the desert” are tricky to detect against the tan-colored dunes.) Once in Al Ain, known as the Garden City for its lush greenery, you have handsome forts to explore, date-palm oases to discover and, at Hili Archaeological Park , Bronze Age tombs that will blow your mind.

Distance/Duration: 122 miles/90 minutes

Tip: Don’t miss the giddy, winding drive up Jebel Hafeet mountain — 4,098 feet! — for sweeping oasis and desert views.

Mountains: Dubai to the East Coast

The Dubai-to-Hatta section of this route offers some of the most sublime vistas in the country, from camel-dotted plains to russet-colored dunes — including Big Red, a famed rise popular among adrenaline junkies for sandboarding, quad biking and dune bashing (high-speed dune driving). At the high-altitude enclave of Hatta, the parched, purple-hued mountains are best appreciated from the town’s historic watchtowers. The spectacular drive north from Hatta along the east coast offers more scorched peaks skirted by white-sand beaches. (Take the coastal road that winds through Fujairah, Khor Fakkan and Al Badiyah and ends in Dibba.)

Distance/Duration: 203 miles/4 hours.

Tip: En route to Hatta, take a detour from the crossroads town of Al Madam and head to Al Shuwaib (15 miles/20 minutes) to see Arabian oryx (a large antelope) and gazelles frolicking on the dunes.

Sea: Dubai to the North Coast

The route to the seaside village of Ras Al-Khaimah doesn’t offer the scenic drama of other drives, but this trip from Dubai is more about the destinations than the journey. Call into cities and towns along the way, and you’ll discover old wooden dhows bobbing in the harbor in Sharjah, stunning palm-lined sandy beaches in Ajman, restored wind-tower houses in Umm Al Quwain, atmospheric old souks in Ras Al Khaimah, and, in the arid mountains inland, centuries-old Portuguese forts and watchtowers.

Distance/Duration: 74 miles/90 minutes.

Tip: Take two hours to stroll Sharjah’s historic quarters, and an hour each in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al-Khaimah.

sunset view of Dubai Harbour from ATTIKO rooftop bar

Take Elevated Sips at the 7 Best Rooftop Bars in Dubai

view of palm jumeirah from sushi samba, st regis dubai the palm

Sky-High Views, Brilliant Brunches and Sunny Beaches: A Guide to Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah

7 Out of this World Experiences You Can Only Have in Dubai

TRAVEL SUPPORT

Tourists travelling to, from, and through Dubai

Check back frequently for the latest information about COVID-19 travel and testing requirements for travelling to, from or connecting through Dubai.

Travelling to Dubai

Before you book

All passengers travelling to Dubai are no longer required to present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or perform PCR tests.

Passengers travelling from or through Dubai are only required to comply with the transit requirements and travel requirements their final destination.

Check if you need a visa (Opens an external website in a new tab) . Depending on your nationality you can get a visa on arrival, or you can apply for your prearranged visit visa (Opens page in the same tab) from Dubai Immigration before you travel.

Nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar & Saudi Arabia) can travel within GCC countries and enter Dubai with their National Identity Card (ID Card).

Ready for your next trip?

COVID-19 information hub
Travel requirements for Dubai
Tourists travelling to, from and through Dubai

From Dubai to Abu Dhabi: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Jess Lee Updated Jul 13, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Although most people get about by car in the United Arab Emirates, there are other transport options available.

One thing to look forward to in the future is that the UAE are currently constructing a 1,200-kilometer-long railway network that will stretch across the entire country and which will completely change public transport options between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Although the Dubai to Abu Dhabi segment of EtihadRail's network has been completed, there has been no official word on if it will open before the entire network is finished.

Until then, whether you want to hire a car and hit the road, take a tour or use the bus, there are plenty of current options for all styles of travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It's only 140 kilometers between the two cities , so it makes sense to add a trip to Abu Dhabi into all but the shortest Dubai stay.

1. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Car

Hiring a car for a trip between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and your wider vacation within the UAE, is a popular transport choice.

Driving within Dubai can be daunting for the uninitiated. Once you're outside of the city limits, though, on the well-maintained multilane highways, driving in the UAE is quite straightforward. Just drive defensively and stay in the far-right lane to steer clear of the speeding and overtaking game of your fellow drivers.

Car hire firms are plentiful in Dubai. You'll find all the main international players at the airports, and many firms have handy office counters within hotels.

The main routes leading out of the city have toll fees (4 AED). Your hire car will be fitted with a "salik" sticker tag that pays the toll fee automatically. Any tolls you clock up are paid when you return the car to the hire agency.

Download the Smart Roads app from the Dubai Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) onto your phone before heading out to help with navigating your way out of the city. It tends to be slightly better than Google Maps.

From central Dubai, the most straightforward route follows Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street (E11 Highway), south out of the center, and stays on that same road for the entire journey to Abu Dhabi. On the edge of Abu Dhabi city, just before Abu Dhabi Airport, turn west onto the E10 Highway (also known as Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street), which heads straight into the central city.

If you're visiting Abu Dhabi's sights on a day trip from Dubai, head to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque first, before driving farther west into the downtown area.

2. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Group Tour

If you're looking for a fully organized and well-priced trip to Abu Dhabi from Dubai, with both transport and a tour of Abu Dhabi's main tourist attractions included, then a group day tour can be a good option.

Most group day tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubai , all your transport for the day (in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach), and a professional guide.

The major stops once you're in Abu Dhabi are usually at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Heritage Village, with short photo stops at other city tourist attractions such as the Emirates Palace Hotel and Yas Island's Formula One Circuit.

Note that if you're heading to Abu Dhabi to specifically visit and spend time at attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Mangrove National Park, or the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, these group tours aren't for you.

The full-day tour of Abu Dhabi from Dubai does what it says on the tin, offering a whirlwind tour of Abu Dhabi with plenty of photo stops outside major attractions (including outside the Louvre, on Yas Island, and at the Emirates Palace Hotel) and visits to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Heritage Village.

Pickup and drop-off from Dubai hotels is included if you're not a solo traveler (solo travelers report to a designated central pickup address in Dubai) and transport is in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus or coach bus, depending on the tour numbers booked for that day. Lunch is not included in the tour cost, but there is a designated lunch stop at Abu Dhabi's Marina Mall for tour passengers to have lunch.

3. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Bus

Freeway interchange at night in Abu Dhabi

Traveling by bus from Dubai and Abu Dhabi is the cheapest transport option between the two cities. Services are reliable, frequent and efficient. Buses on this route are all operated by the Dubai Roads & Transport Authority (RTA). They're all air-conditioned but otherwise, no-frills .

RTA's E100 bus departs from Dubai's Al Ghubaiba Bus Station for Abu Dhabi's Al Wahda Bus Station, every 15 to 20 minutes. The journey takes around two hours.

The bus fare is paid using a Nol card (Dubai's rechargeable public transport card). The fare is simply deducted from your card when you touch it on the machine at the bus entrance.

You can buy Nol cards with pre-loaded credit, and recharge them, at vending machines at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station.

Al Ghubaiba Bus Station is centrally located, near Dubai Creek and the Al Fahidi District. Al Ghubaiba Metro Stop is a short walk from the bus station.

Al Wahda Bus Station is in central Abu Dhabi. There are plenty of taxis outside ready to whisk you to your destination in Abu Dhabi.

Even in the height of summer, bring something to throw over your shoulders. The air-conditioning is often freezing.

4. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Private Tour

The most relaxed, no-stress option combining return transport from Dubai to Abu Dhabi with touring the sights is to book a private tour.

Any of Dubai's multitude of travel agencies can organize a fully customized day-long Abu Dhabi trip for you with either guide and driver or driver only.

The itinerary will completely depend on your own interests (with time limits obviously), so whether you want to include a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, or book a kayaking tour of Mangroves National Park is up to you.

The transport itself will be door-to-door and will be in a comfortable car or minibus, depending on your group size.

For an organized private tour itinerary, though, the Abu Dhabi Private City Tour includes pickup from any hotel in Dubai, or from Dubai airport, and a five-hour trip around the city with tours of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Heritage Village, Emirates Palace, and a produce market along with a short stop at Marina Mall and photo stops at Ferrari World and Qasr Al Watan. The stops on the itinerary can be customized and changed to suit your personal interests.

5. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Taxi

Taking a private taxi from Dubai to Abu Dhabi instead of self-driving isn't a cheap option but it does mean you don't have to cope with the traffic yourself, and you benefit from door-to-door service.

For a more budget taxi alternative, there are share-taxi services available at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. The journey time is shorter than taking the bus; they depart when the car is full, and you and the other passengers share the total fare. They arrive in Abu Dhabi at Al Wahda Bus Station.

Private Dubai taxis can be booked by your hotel or hailed off the street. You can also use one of the ride-sharing apps such as Uber for a Dubai to Abu Dhabi journey.

More on United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Is It Possible To Travel From Qatar To Dubai By Road?

Possibility of traveling from qatar to dubai by road.

Are you an adventurer, or is this your first trip from Qatar to Dubai by road? Most tourists admire traveling by road to Dubai from Qatar. You should also experience this road drive. Qatar is a neighboring country to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Other than traveling by air, it is possible to travel by road, either in your own vehicle or on local transport.

If you are an enthusiast, you can really enjoy traveling from Qatar to Dubai by road. The driving distance between Qatar and Dubai is 690 km. driving from Qatar to the United Arab Emirates takes about 6 hours and 55 minutes. This blog will tell you what driving from Qatar to Dubai really takes.

Do You Know The Distance Between Qatar and Dubai?

The travel distance is 690 km and 985 meters between Qatar and Dubai. And if you want to know the distance in miles, then it is about 430 miles. However, if you have your personal car, the travel time, at a consistent speed of 50 km/hour, can be 13 hours and 41 minutes on average.

But if you decide to ride on a bus or a train, it can vary depending on its speed. Besides, hours of regular travel are tiresome. So there are rest areas and food points on the way.

You can find your first resting point to be Salwa (Saudi-Qatar border). Then Ghuwaifat (UAE-Saudi border). And then Abu Dhabi, the UAE's capital. Then you will finally reach your destination, Dubai . In addition, the roads are very well-maintained.

You will be warned if there are roadworks or construction. But before you put on your seat belt, you must have certain mandatory documents for entering the UAE border.

Required Documents for Entering the UAE Border

First of all, get a UAE visa from the GDRFA Dubai site. You can visit the web page

You must go to GCC entry permit, fill out the application, pay a certain amount, and click to submit. Second, if you own a car, then make sure that the car is in your name with a valid driving license. Keep the vehicle registration card along with you and the driving license. Otherwise, you can expect an objection from the transport authority.

Since the start of COVID, it has been mandatory to get a "Negative" PCR test. The report is valid for 72 hours. If you are recovered from COVID , the relevant authority should issue your medical certificate within one month. After you are done with these, you can happily get ready and accelerate.

Border Checking

Moving from Qatar, your first stop will be the Saudi border after passing the three gates in Salwa. Here you will first pass through passport and immigration, then customs, and then obtain a car insurance policy for Saudi.

Thus, you will be inside Saudi Arabia. You can get 1 week's insurance at the cost of SAR 138 at Najm Gates (however, the cost may vary depending on circumstances).

The next stop will be the Saudi-UAE border in al-Batha. The procedure is the same as in the first stop. You will pass through passport and immigration, then customs, and then obtain a car insurance policy for the UAE.

Thus, you are inside the UAE. The fantastic point is that you can get a 15-day-insurance for the UAE from the UAE border at the cost of AED 210. This is less time-consuming because you do not have to get one from Qatar.

Road Travel Advice

Due to roadwork and high speed, the initial part of the journey from Qatar is difficult and dangerous. Poor visibility is a result of extreme weather events and dust storms. Roads become slick after rain, and flash flooding can occur. Sands that are drifting make it dangerous to drive in rural areas.

Even though it may be an unnecessary reminder, it is against the law to drive while intoxicated and to flee from the police after an accident. Likewise, it is prohibited to use abusive language or gestures while driving. You must obey traffic laws and drive cautiously for your safety.

If you are riding a motorcycle, you must always wear a helmet, unless you are driving your own car. Put another way, you must use a licensed taxi or limousine. Avoid using shared taxis. Avoid thinking about traveling by sea, as many Gulf regions are delicate due to territorial disputes and security concerns.

Further Guide

Now that we know the procedures, the big question is how easy it is to travel by road. Road travel for about 13 hours or more isn't easy at all. If a tire gets punctured or the engine heats up, there are issues like food, toilets, sleep, baggage, fuel, and car maintenance costs.

Under such circumstances, it is logical to travel by air. You must pay for the visa, COVID test report, and airfare. You do not have to carry food or wait to reach the next gas station for a toilet. However, road travel is still cheaper than air travel.

For further assistance, you will learn from

The cost of travel by air is about $145; by local bus, $163; and by self-drive, $75. So do some homework to make some good decisions. However, the costs may vary from time to time rates.

Prepare yourselves to meet your neighbors' homes and enjoy the sport. You aren't far from Dubai. There are many ways to step onto the land of Dubai, so do not hesitate to take the opportunity.

If you're considering traveling from Qatar to Dubai by road, you can look up places to stop. Almost double-check the weather by checking the road conditions. Find the best hotel stays, dining, and tourist spots to enjoy.

Can I take my car from Qatar to UAE?

You will need to have your car's proof of purchase, a filled-up application form, insurance documents, your export plate, your custom clearance papers, vehicle inspection clearance, and proof of residency. Once registration is complete, you have successfully imported your car to the UAE!

Can I Get a Car with Driver?

Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, known for its extravagant lifestyle, stunning architecture, and luxurious accommodations. One of the best ways to explore this magnificent city is with car rental Dubai with driver , which will provide you with a comfortable and convenient way to see all the sights and sounds of Dubai.

How much does it cost to ship a car from Qatar to Dubai?

Shipping a car by road from Qatar to a UAE destination costs between QAR 5,000 to QAR 6,000, excluding the cost of the car.

Share This Blog

Popular properties in qatar.

Short Term Properties for Rent
Apartments for Rent
Apartments for Sale
Villas for Rent
Villas for Sale
Offices for Rent
Studio Apartments for Rent

How to Apply For a Police Job in Qatar?

8 Most High Demand Jobs in Qatar

What are The Highest-Paying Jobs in Qatar?

How Can I Get Qatar Citizenship?

How to Obtain Qatar Family Residence Visa: A Complete Guide

Top 9 Private Jobs in Qatar

Why Serviced Apartments in Qatar are Ideal to Maximize ROI

Best Accommodation Options for Expats in Qatar

Real estate investment strategies in Qatar

Live Green: Eco-Friendly Apartments for Rent in Qatar

Email agent.

Proprty title

Report this property.

Environment
Road to Net Zero
Art & Design
Film & TV
Music & On-stage
Pop Culture
Fashion & Beauty
Home & Garden
Things to do
Combat Sports
Horse Racing
Beyond the Headlines
Trending Middle East
Business Extra
Culture Bites
Year of Elections
Pocketful of Dirhams
Books of My Life
Iraq: 20 Years On

Major Dh374m Dubai road project to cut travel times and make commutes easier

Four bridges capable of carrying 17,600 vehicles per hour to be built as part of scheme.

A contract has been awarded for the 'Garn Al Sabkha Street Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road Intersection Improvement Project'. Photo: Roads and Transport Authority

Dubai transport chiefs have given the green light to a major road project that aims to cut travel times between Sheikh Zayed Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a contract for the Garn Al Sabkha Street Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road Intersection Improvement Project, Dubai Media Office announced on Sunday.

The Dh374m ($101.82m) scheme will include the construction of four bridges capable of carrying 17,600 vehicles per hour. When complete, it will slash journey times and make commutes easier for motorists.

. @rta_dubai has awarded a contract for Garn Al Sabkha Street Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road Intersection Improvement Project. The scope of the project covers the construction of 4 bridges, spanning 3,000 meters capable of carrying 17,600 vehicles per hour. The project has an… pic.twitter.com/1aSr8yIDoR — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 2, 2023

“This project is part of a larger initiative to improve the Garn Al Sabkha Street corridor, which connects Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Roads,” said Mattar Al Tayer, director general of the RTA. “Its goal is to guarantee that traffic flows smoothly between Sheikh Zayed Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, First Al Khail Street and Al Asayel Street.”

Mr Al Tayer, also the chairman of the RTA's board of executive directors, said the project will reduce transit distance and time by 40 per cent for traffic heading from Garn Al Sabkha Street to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road in the direction of Al Qusais and Sharjah, reducing peak hour journey time to just 12 minutes from 20 minutes.

It will also reduce the journey time by 70 per cent for vehicles from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road rightward to Al Yalayis Road in the direction of Jebel Ali Port to seven minutes from 21 minutes.

The first bridge is 960 metres long and will stand at the intersection of Garn Al Sabkha Street and Al Asayel Street. This two-lane bridge can handle 8,000 vehicles per hour in both directions and facilitates a smooth traffic flow between Sheikh Zayed Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.

The major road project aims to reduce journey times. Roy Cooper / The National

The second is a 660-metre bridge of two lanes serving traffic from Garn Al Sabkha Street Westwards heading to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road Northwards in the direction of Al Qusais and Sharjah. This bridge can handle 3,200 vehicles per hour.

“The third is a two-lane 700 metres bridge streamline the traffic flow and eliminate the overlapping traffic from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road heading northward to Al Yalayis Road in the direction of Jebel Ali Port. The bridge can accommodate 3,200 vehicles per hour," said Mr Al Tayer.

“The fourth is a two-lane bridge spanning 680 metres that aims to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent the overlapping traffic from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road to the service road leading to Dubai Production City. The bridge has a capacity of 3,200 vehicles per hour,” he added.

The project also includes 7 kilometres of roadwork along with street lighting, traffic signals and systems, rainwater drainage and irrigation networks. A completion date for the project was not announced.

The project also includes street lighting, traffic signals and systems and rainwater drainage networks. Photo: Roads and Transport Authority

It is part of a broader plan to upgrade strategic road corridors to the east and the west, such as Al Yalayis and Expo Roads, which strengthen Dubai's transportation system, service an array of developmental projects on both sides of the roads and accommodate both current and future traffic volumes.

It is also just the latest in a series of projects the RTA had embarked on or completed amid a surge in Dubai's population, which has grown by close to 90,000 in a year.

In March it was announced the RTA had awarded the first contract under Phase 4 of its Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project.

The Dh5.3 billion project is aimed to serve the needs of urban growth along the corridor, the authority said. The scope of the Dh800m contract extends 4.8km along Sheikh Rashid Road, from the intersection with Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street to the Falcon Interchange on Al Mina Road.

Dubai is also set to open seven new footbridges as part of a major effort to make the emirate a global leader in traffic safety .

The UAE Today

The latest news and analysis from the Emirates

Latest News
Jawazat and MOI
Driving in KSA

Travelling from KSA
Travelling to UAE

How to travel UAE from Saudi Arabia by road?

Navigate here 👇

There are many people who want to travel to the UAE or Dubai from Saudi Arabia by road. Here is a complete guide on it.

Requirements

You need the following requirements to travel to Dubai from Saudi Arabia by road;

A valid UAE Visa .
Original passport.
Original iqama with 3 months validity.
Exit re-entry visa printout.
Original Istimara (vehicle ownership).
Letter of authorization if the car is on rent.

Travel to UAE from Saudi Arabia by road

You can drive your car to the Saudi-UAE Border if you have all the above documents.

Saudi side of the Border

The officer will issue a customs slip mentioning your car details.
The next counter will stamp your passports.
The entire set of documents will be returned to you.

Once you reach the UAE side of the border traveling from Saudi Arabia by road, the officer would;

Take you to a room for eye scanning.
Check all your documents.
Stamp your passport with the entry.

In the next step, go to the customs counter, where the officer will;

Take the customs slip issued by the Saudi officer.
Give you a paper with your name written on it.
Inspect your car (if needed).
He might check your luggage to counter smuggling.

On the last step, you will go to the Insurance Counter .

Pay AED 210 for the insurance.
The insurance is valid for 2 weeks.

That’s it; you have successfully entered Dubai from Saudi Arabia by road.

Travel to Saudi Arabia from Dubai by road

On the way back when you are returning from the UAE to Saudi Arabia by road, you need the following documents;

Original iqama.
Insurance document issued by the UAE authorities.

UAE side of the Border

On the UAE side of the border, they will check;

The entire set of documents.
Accident History in the UAE.
Any unpaid traffic violations in the UAE.
Stamp your passport with the exit stamp.

When you are traveling from the UAE to Saudi Arabia by road, the officer will check;

The luggage rule-out smuggling.
Make an entry stamp to Saudi Arabia on your passport.

That’s it; you have successfully entered Saudi Arabia from the UAE by road.

For the latest updates, you can join our ✅ WhatsApp group or ☑️ Telegram Channel .

Never pay the full price🏷️; join the 📢 Saudi Coupon Codes group and get sales updates and discount codes in one place.

Life and Living

Visa & Immigration in UAE
Banking in UAE
Schooling in UAE
Housing in UAE
Ramadan 2024
Saudi Arabia
Philippines
Cryptocurrency
Infrastructure
Currency Exchange
Horse Racing
Local Sports

Entertainment

Local Events

Dubai World Cup

Track Notes
Big Numbers
Daily Updates
Arts & Culture
Mental Health
Relationships
Staycations
UAE Attractions
Tech Reviews
Motoring Reviews
Movie Reviews
Book reviews
Restaurant Reviews
Young Times

Supplements

Back To School
Eid-Al-Adha
It’s Summer Time
Leading Universities
Higher Education
India Real Estate Show
Future Of Insurance
KT Desert Drive
New Age Finance & Accounting Summit
Digital Health Forum
Subscriptions
UAE Holidays
Latest News
Prayer Timings
Cinema Listings
Inspired Living
Advertise With Us
Privacy Notice

KT APPDOWNLOAD

Dubai: Smart traffic system to cover 100% of the main road network by 2026

During the initial phase of the project, 116 traffic surveillance cameras were installed.

Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed announces Dh30-billion rain drainage network

Paid parking in Dubai: Residents face up to Dh4,000 extra yearly costs when new rates kick in

UAE: Worker wins Dh1 million in National Bonds draw after saving Dh100 every month

Published: Sun 23 Jun 2024, 12:35 PM

Last updated: Sun 23 Jun 2024, 9:30 PM

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has started the study and design on Phase II of the authority's Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Improvement and Expansion Project.

This second phase aims to expand the coverage of the emirate's main road network from the current 60% to 100% by 2026. Accordingly, the length of the road network covered by the system will extend from 480km to 710km.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

Enhancing connectivity

During the initial phase of the project, 116 traffic surveillance cameras were installed, bringing the total to 311 cameras. The authority also installed 100 incident monitoring and vehicle counting devices, increasing the total to 227 devices.

The initial phase of the project also included the installation of 112 Variable Message Signs (VMS) that relay real time information about road conditions, fitting 115 travel time and speed measurement devices were also installed. The authority also set up 17 weather sensor stations, constructed 660km of electric power lines and a fibre optic network with a total length of 820km.

Watch the video below:

AI technologies

RTA manages traffic in the emirate through the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Center at Al Barsha, one of the largest and most sophisticated traffic control centres globally. The centre employs innovative technologies and traffic management systems to meet Dubai's expansion and make it one of the world's leading cities in ITS, alongside Singapore and Seoul.

The Dubai ITS Centre is a crucial hub for managing traffic in Dubai. It has an integrated technology platform which uses artificial intelligence, big data, the Internet of Things, advanced communication systems, and various monitoring devices to provide smart services and gather important information.

The centre oversees Dubai's current and future road networks and features an advanced traffic control system called "iTraffic," enhanced by AI technologies and big data analysis tools to support decision-making.

Through the Improvement and Expansion Project, RTA wishes to adopt the latest intelligent technologies and software, such as the Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS), expanding the use of advanced ITS technologies, and conducting a benchmarking study with leading cities in the field of transport.

"The project has improved incident monitoring by 63%, reduced response times s by 20% through Variable Message Signs (VMS). These results were facilitated by using VMS, enhanced linkage and integration with the Enterprise Command and Control Centre and the Dubai Police General HQ," said Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.

"This expansion will enhance road network management and traffic flow through better monitoring, faster response times to incidents, and providing instant information to the public about the condition of the road network via new Variable Message Signs (VMS) and smart applications to help distribute traffic effectively. The project enhances personal mobility by integrating modern and advanced technologies and self-driving transport solutions thanks to providing a comprehensive ITS infrastructure designed to meet current and future needs," added Al Tayer.

Dubai's RTA announces 17 new projects, unveils Dh16.8 billion economic roadmap
Dubai: 6.7 million riders used RTA transport during Eid Al Adha holidays
Newsletters
[email protected]

More news from UAE

Uae: paid parking announced on three roads from june 29.

Parking fees are set in order to regulate the limited spaces and to prevent the arbitrary use of these spots

uae 22 hours ago -->

Dh3,000 fine in UAE: Several trucks impounded for illegally transporting sand

The violators were caught as authorities step up its monitoring of the public's compliance with regulations

Dubai: Japan suspends e-visas; travellers' plans in limbo as appointments 'rejected'

Some agencies are able to find a solution, with one expert encouraging travellers to get a five-year multiple-entry visa to the popular holiday destination

uae 1 day ago -->

Watch: Filipino nannies in Dubai skip gossip, learn life skills on ‘Marites Day’

Over the weekend, about 80 members of Filipino Kasambahay Club (FKC), an organisation of nannies and domestic workers in Dubai, had their first meet-up

UAE summer: Coolest outdoor spots to visit as temperature crosses 50°C

Instead of going to shopping malls and indoor play areas, there are still a few outdoor spots that residents can visit during these hot and humid days

UAE traffic alert: Partial closure on key roads announced in Abu Dhabi

The authority has urged motorists to drive cautiously and to abide by traffic rules and regulations

'Hope for progress': UAE's Iranian expats vote for new president from Dubai, Abu Dhabi centres

The election is being held to choose the successor to former President Ebrahim Raisi who died in a helicopter crash in May

UAE's first short Friday prayers: Residents standing in sun relieved with 7-minute sermon

Usually sermons last around 20 minutes and are followed by a two-unit congregational prayer

Type your keywords

Latest News
Emergencies
Ask the Law
GN Fun Drive
Visa+Immigration
Phone+Internet
Reader Queries
Safety+Security
Banking & Insurance
Dubai Airshow
Corporate Tax
Top Destinations
Corporate News
Electronics
Home and Kitchen
Consumables
Saving and Investment
Budget Living
Expert Columns
Community Tips
Cryptocurrency
Cooking and Cuisines
Guide to Cooking
Art & People
Friday Partner
Daily Crossword
Word Search
Philippines
Australia-New Zealand
Corrections
Special Reports
Pregnancy & Baby
Learning & Play
Child Health
For Mums & Dads
UAE Success Stories
Live the Luxury
Culture and History
Staying Connected
Entertainment
Live Scores
Point Table
Top Scorers
Photos & Videos
Course Reviews
Learn to Play
South Indian
Arab Celebs
Health+Fitness
Gitex Global 2023
Best Of Bollywood
Special Features
Investing in the Future
Know Plan Go
Gratuity Calculator
Notifications
Prayer Times

Watch: RTA awards contract for Dh431 million project to link Dubai Harbour with Sheikh Zayed Road

Uae transport.

Environment

Direct entry and exit points to cut travel time from 12 to three minutes

Dubai: A new bridge will be built to enable direct entry and exit from Dubai Harbour, cutting travel time from 12 minutes to three minutes, it was announced on Sunday.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a Dh431 million project to construct direct entry and exit points for Dubai Harbour, in partnership with Shamal Holding, the firm that owns the seafront destination. The project encompasses the construction of a two-lane bridge in each direction spanning 1.5km, extending from Sheikh Zayed Road to Dubai Harbour.

Get exclusive content with Gulf News WhatsApp channel

Dubai Harbour is located between Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah.

6,000 vehicles per hour

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, RTA said: “The project provides a direct entry and exit for Dubai Harbour to ease the movement of visitors and residents. It covers the construction of a bridge of two lanes in each direction spanning 1,500 metres and accommodating 6,000 vehicles per hour.

"The bridge extends from the fifth intersection on Sheikh Zayed Road [near the American University in Dubai] to Dubai Harbour Street¸ passing through the intersection of Al Naseem Street with Al Falak Street and crosses over the intersection of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street up to Dubai Harbour."

He added that the project also includes surface improvements at four intersections along the bridge: the fifth intersection on Sheikh Zayed Road, the intersection of Al Falak Street with Al Naseem Street, the intersection of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street with Al Naseem Street, and Dubai Harbour Street.

When completed, the project will improve the flow of traffic and reduce the travel time from 12 minutes to three minutes, said Al Tayer.

Expect 40-70 per cent cut in travel time on these roads in Dubai as new bridge opens
Dubai to get floating pedestrian bridge, 24/7 night beach and more under new projects worth Dh355 million
Watch: Dubai to build new 1.6km-long Al Khaleej Street Tunnel

Abdulla Binhabtoor, CEO, Shamal Holding said: “This major milestone to construct the Dubai Harbour bridge from Sheikh Zayed Road... achieves our mission of offering our residents and guests the best experience and comfort.

As we continue to upgrade and invest in the infrastructure and facilities of Dubai Harbour, we appreciate the support and partnership of the Roads and Transport Authority, as well as our wider ecosystem of partners, contractors, and developers.”

About Dubai Harbour

The seafront district includes Dubai Harbour Residences, the first residential project led and curated by Dubai Harbour.

It is also home to Skydive Dubai, featuring a 770-metre-long runway that extends 550 metres into the Arabian Gulf. A 1.5km-long development project is also currently underway, featuring a residential complex with 24 towers and about 7,500 apartments.

More From Transport

Pose with Dubai Police Tesla Cybertruck this weekend

ajman-muni-parking-map-on-X-on-june-29-1719652930487

Motorists alert: New paid parking hits 3 more UAE roads

Faster registration checks at Dubai airport smart gates

Sheikh Hamdan makes new appointment at RTA

Hail, rain fall across different regions of UAE

Pose with Dubai Police Tesla Cybertruck this weekend

Dubai cracks down on illegal practices in diesel trade

Motorists alert: New paid parking hits 3 more UAE roads

Philippine First Lady visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

UAE: Can ‘climate intervention’ yield more rain?

Watch: bridge to link dubai harbour, sheikh zayed road, the tech helping dubai foil clever drug smuggling bids, uae: petrol, diesel prices for july 2024 announced, france votes in snap polls as far right eyes power, india appoints new point person for gulf affairs.

Get Breaking News Alerts From Gulf News

We’ll send you latest news updates through the day. You can manage them any time by clicking on the notification icon.

Welcome to a sun-soaked metropolis like no other

Plan your dream wedding in an unforgettable destination

Discover the city's insiders, influencers and innovators

Every district in Dubai tells its own unique story

Admire the city's traditional arts, crafts and cultural gems

Get more out of your holiday with these guides

Escape to the hills and explore nature

Answer the call of the wild and experience desert thrills

Uncover the city’s rich heritage and vibrant arts scene

Embark on thrilling new adventures for all ages

Taste award-winning world flavours and local cuisine

Visit the latest hotspots, openings and attractions

Find new surprises at modern malls and traditional souks

Marvel at record-breaking venues and iconic landmarks

Unwind at Dubai's luxury spas and wellbeing havens

What do you travel for? Find inspiration with our itineraries

Book a table at these fresh hotspots

Taste a deliciously different side of Dubai

Discover our homegrown culinary heroes

See all the restaurants unveiled in the Dubai selection

Weekends in Dubai are for feasting

Explore Dubai's plant-based concepts that impress

Reserve a table at top restaurants for incredible prices

Browse through our listing of restaurants

Don't miss a beat – live concerts, festivals, activities and more

Celebrate Eid Al Adha with family entertainment, traditional feasts and shopping

Enjoy unbeatable sales, special offers and prize draws

Plan ahead for a hassle-free travel experience

From etiquette to currency, we answer all your questions

Use our tool to book flight tickets to Dubai and plan your trip to the city

Dubai has an incredible range of stay options for every budget

From take-off to touchdown, navigating Dubai is a breeze

Your complete guide to enjoying one of the world's safest cities to the fullest

Find out all about Dubai’s climate throughout the year with our weather guide

All you need to know about the dirham, from exchange rates to helpful tips

Helpful information for travellers with special needs

Unlock huge savings with pre-paid access to top spots

Get our apps for the latest attractions, events & itineraries

th8-palm-dubai-beach-resort-vignette-collection

Save big with great offers on Dubai's top sights and activities

Indulge in retail therapy for less with big discounts

Enjoy a trip to Dubai with incredible accommodation offers

Get tickets to the best concerts featuring A-list artists at world-class venues

Join Dubai's community sporting activities and race to the finish line

Sing along as the star belts out his top hits

Get ready to rock with the legendary band

Related Sites

Add items to your Top Picks by clicking the heart icon as you navigate through the website

This is now in your Top Picks!

Login to like

Visit Dubai

The best roadtrips in Dubai

Experiences

Tue, June 6, 2023

Experience Dubai on four wheels (or two) and take in some of the city's most impressive sites with these spectacular driving routes.

Do you like it? Share it

Kochi – Dubai passenger ship: Two companies shortlisted, new route decided

Kochi: Two companies have been shortlisted for operating the much-awaited ship service between Kerala and Gulf. This is a significant milestone for the mega project that envisages affordable passenger ship service in the Kochi – Dubai route. The discussions regarding this are led by the Kerala Maritime Board. The Board had invited applications from companies that were interested in operating the service, in March this year. Now, two companies have been selected from among the applicants. Kozhikode-based Jabal Ventures Private Limited and White Shipping based in Chennai are the companies that made it to the final list. Kerala Maritime Board Chairman NS Pillai told us that the Board has held meetings with both companies and that they have expressed immense interest in the project.

Service in three months The Board will now cooperate with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Shipping Corporation of India to solve the legal problems that may arise. Besides, it will also submit a detailed report including the study of scope provided by both the companies, to the state government. The contract of agreement would be finalised only after deciding the kind of relaxations that may be provided to the shipping companies. Meanwhile, the Maritime Board chairman said that both the companies have agreed to start the service within three months after receiving the contract of agreement.

New route Earlier, the project was planned from Beypore to Dubai; however, Kochi has now been finalised. It may take up to three days from a port in Kerala to reach Dubai. There had been demands to make the service available for less than Rs 10,000. The Malabar Development Council which had been demanding such a passenger shipping service noted that the service would be a huge success if tickets were affordable. They also pointed out that there aren’t enough flights to carry foot wares, food items like Kozhikode halwa and agricultural products to the Gulf region. Ships that can accommodate up to 1200 passengers are being considered for the project. Meanwhile, the authorities say that the tourism sector too could benefit from the passenger ship service. They add that the service would be projected as a passenger-cargo service. The Kerala Maritime Board considers launching cruise services to other states as well as within the ports in Kerala. The Board had invited applications from companies that are interested in being part of this project. Around 12 companies have reportedly shown interest in this.

Uttarakhand becoming a ‘stresscation’ spot due to overtourism: What should tourists do?

Chennai Egmore – Nagercoil Vande Bharat Express: Railways conduct successful trial run

Kochi – Dubai passenger ship: Two companies shortlisted, new route decided

Cashless travel, GPS, sleeper buses: Here's what KSRTC is planning for the next few months

Raw dogging: What is this travel trend and is it beneficial?

It costs only Re 1 to insure your railway travels: But is it worth taking it?

Southwest monsoon in Kerala: Munnar Gap Road, Kakkayam Tourism Centre closed

Fast-track immigration facility launched to make immigration easier for international travellers

KSRTC flags off ‘Chalo App’ for live ticket booking in long-distance buses

World's biggest airport in Saudi Arabia: What makes it special?

IMAGES

Top 12 Dubai Road Trips You Must Take
Best Road Trips from Dubai for the Weekend Getaway
Road Drive in Dubai
11 Of The Most Scenic Road Trips From Dubai
Saudi Arabia to Dubai by Road
A Perfect Day for Dubai Road Trip

VIDEO

DUBAI ROAD TOUR
Dubai Tour Road Travel
DUBAI ROAD DRIVE 🚗 🇦🇪 JUNE 2024(‎@uae25 )
That de-escalated quickly
dubai road round..#dubai #dubaivlog #travel #dubaimarina #habibicometodubai #explore #dubaimall
dubai road😍 #traveldiaries #dubaicity #dubairoadview #viralvideo #youtubeshorts #music #fypシ

COMMENTS

Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks
1. Avoid Traveling in Summer. Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).
By road
All visitors must have the correct exit permit from the country of origin and a UAE entry permit/visa. The UAE has a network of excellent and well-maintained roads, making it an easy destination to explore by car. Vehicles are driven on the right-hand side of the road. Traffic signs are generally in English and Arabic. Driving and traffic laws.
Driving in Dubai: Tourist Need-to-Know Guide ...
Driving In Dubai: The Road Rules. Here are some key things to know about Dubai driving before you consider renting a car in Dubai: The road networks are extensive, and roads are wide; freeways are often 8 lanes wide, but this is because you are sharing with trucks, buses, and multiple merging lanes. You do need to be a confident driver in Dubai.
The Ultimate Guide to Dubai Transportation
From Abu Dhabi city you can use the E11 highway, also known as Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai - the route from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is around 140km and usually takes up to two hours, depending on traffic. From Al Ain, Abu Dhabi's second-largest city, highway E66 offers a direct route to Dubai. The drive is approximately 150km and takes around two ...
13 Best Places to Drive in Dubai
So it is easy to get here on your Dubai road trip through the city or make a separate visit during the day or night. Dubai City Walk. City Walk Dubai is a relatively new residential area in Dubai, built on the principle of "city within the city". ... Thanks Anya for the description of things and travel by car. Am planning a trip to Dubai ...
Plan Your Trip To Dubai
Plan your trip. Get started on your Dubai holiday with these helpful tips and tools. Planning a holiday to Dubai is easier than ever with our helpful tips and handy tools. Whether you're looking for the latest travel information, the best hotels to stay in or wondering how to explore the city on the metro, discover Dubai with us.
Travelling by road
Travelling by road. The UAE's roads connect to the neighbouring countries of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Sultanate of Oman. There are several crossing points along the borders; some are exclusive to GCC citizens. You can travel to KSA and Oman by private car or by public transportation buses operated by government bodies/companies.
Tourists traveling to, from, and through Dubai
Travelling to Dubai. All passengers travelling to Dubai are no longer required to present a COVID‑19 vaccination certificate or perform PCR tests. Passengers travelling from or through Dubai are only required to comply with the transit requirements and travel requirements their final destination. Check if you need a visa .
Traveling to UAE by Road on a Visit Visa
The first step to visiting the UAE by road is to obtain the necessary visa. Fortunately, the process is straightforward and can be done online at the UAE government website or through a reliable visa provider like Arabiers. The visa application requires basic information, such as your passport details, travel dates, and purpose of the visit.
Abu Dhabi to Dubai
The distance between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is 148 km. The road distance is 131.8 km. Get driving directions. ... Dubai is a one-stop travel shop for the entire family. Visit Dubai Mall for the latest in designer fashion, head to the top of Burj Khalifa for uninterrupted city views, haggle for the best deals at the Gold and Spice Souks, before ...
Modes of travel
Travelling by road. The UAE's roads connect to the neighbouring countries of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Sultanate of Oman. There are several crossing points along the borders; some are exclusive to GCC citizens. You can travel to KSA and Oman by private car or by public transportation buses operated by government bodies/companies.
The UAE's best road trips
Coral Beach Resort offers all of the above. Outside the bustle of the Al Majaz Waterfront and the Sharjah corniche and lagoon, it's a peaceful low-rise venue with modern facilities and simple, affordable rooms. Coral Beach Resort, Al Muntazah Street, www.hmhhotelgroup.com (06 522 9999).
Doha to Dubai
The distance between Doha and Dubai is 690 km. The road distance is 690 km. Get driving directions. ... Dubai is a one-stop travel shop for the entire family. Visit Dubai Mall for the latest in designer fashion, head to the top of Burj Khalifa for uninterrupted city views, haggle for the best deals at the Gold and Spice Souks, before relaxing ...
All You Need to Know Before Traveling to Dubai
Quick tipsFollow these essentials. Arriving in Dubai. Currency. The weather. Wi-Fi in Dubai. Embassies & consulates. Emergency numbers. Most nationalities can simply get a visa on arrival at the airport but visitors should check their visa requirements before arriving. Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) have a ...
Places to Visit Near Dubai on a Road Trip
Oasis: Dubai to Al Ain. If you do only one road trip in the UAE, one of the best places to visit near Dubai is laidback Al Ain. Put the car in cruise control on the smooth, straight stretch of blacktop and focus on spotting some camels. (Those "ships of the desert" are tricky to detect against the tan-colored dunes.)
Road trips across the GCC to explore
Road trips across the GCC: Dubai. Driving time: 7 hours 30 minutes (710km) A lengthy expedition this one, but well worth it if you've got time on your hands and a desire to embark on a road trip of pretty epic proportions. The route, which involves a 100km stint through Saudi Arabia, serves up sublime views, tumultuous changing landscape and ...
Tourists travelling to, from and through Dubai
Travelling to Dubai. All passengers travelling to Dubai are no longer required to present a COVID‑19 vaccination certificate or perform PCR tests. Passengers travelling from or through Dubai are only required to comply with the transit requirements and travel requirements their final destination. Check if you need a visa .
From Dubai to Abu Dhabi: 5 Best Ways to Get There
3. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi by Bus. Freeway interchange at night in Abu Dhabi. Traveling by bus from Dubai and Abu Dhabi is the cheapest transport option between the two cities. Services are reliable, frequent and efficient. Buses on this route are all operated by the Dubai Roads & Transport Authority (RTA).
[Guide] How to Travel from Qatar to United Arab Emirates (UAE) by Road
1- first stop is immigration and passport checking. 2- second stop is customs. 3- drive to the UAE border. UAE Side. 1- passport and immigration quick stop. 2- customs stop. 3- car insurance quick stop. Enjoy driving the speed limit in the amazing UAE 160kmh until inside Abu Dhabi (around 440km) then it's 140 until inside Dubai.
Is It Possible To Travel From Qatar To Dubai By Road?
The travel distance is 690 km and 985 meters between Qatar and Dubai. And if you want to know the distance in miles, then it is about 430 miles. However, if you have your personal car, the travel time, at a consistent speed of 50 km/hour, can be 13 hours and 41 minutes on average. But if you decide to ride on a bus or a train, it can vary ...
Major Dh374m Dubai road project to cut travel times and make commutes
Dubai transport chiefs have given the green light to a major road project that aims to cut travel times between Sheikh Zayed Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a contract for the Garn Al Sabkha Street Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road Intersection Improvement Project, Dubai Media Office announced on Sunday.
How to travel UAE from Saudi Arabia by road?
Once you reach the UAE side of the border traveling from Saudi Arabia by road, the officer would; Take you to a room for eye scanning. Check all your documents. Stamp your passport with the entry. In the next step, go to the customs counter, where the officer will; Take the customs slip issued by the Saudi officer.
Dubai: Smart traffic system to cover 100% of the main road network by
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has started the study and design on Phase II of the authority's Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Improvement and Expansion Project. This second phase ...
Watch: RTA awards contract for Dh431 million project to link Dubai
The project encompasses the construction of a two-lane bridge in each direction spanning 1.5km, extending from Sheikh Zayed Road to Dubai Harbour. Get exclusive content with Gulf News WhatsApp channel
The best road trips in Dubai
Skyscraper spotting on Sheikh Zayed Road. Places of interest: Emirates Towers, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Water Canal, Dubai Marina, Pier 7. Dubai is king when it comes to skyscraper spotting and a trip down the emirate's superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road, is the perfect way to glimpse some of the most stunning high-rise buildings in the city.
Kochi
Kochi - Dubai route. Kerala Maritime Board. travel from kerala to uae on ships. book a ship to dubai. book a cruice to uae. It may take up to three days from a port in Kerala to reach Dubai..Kochi - Dubai passenger ship. ... Munnar Gap Road, Kakkayam Tourism Centre closed. Travel Fast-track immigration facility launched to make immigration ...