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Despite being a city teeming with millions of personal cars and luxury vehicles, Dubai boasts a top-notch and efficient public transport system. In addition to the abundance of taxis available on the streets or through ride-hailing apps, Dubai offers a comprehensive network of buses that connect the emirate with others, a metro system that operates with clockwork precision, and trams that serve certain areas. However, before these modern transport modes existed, Dubai and the UAE were renowned for their pristine Arabian Sea, which was not only a source of fishing and pearl diving but also a vital trade route. Despite rapid development, the UAE has preserved its maritime heritage, including traditional abras that continue to ferry people across the water. With advancements in buses, metro, and trams, Dubai also maintains an efficient marine transport system. Here’s a guide on how to navigate the different marine transport options—water taxi, ferry, and abra.
What you need? You’ll need a vessel ticket or a Nol card with sufficient balance for your trip. If exploring the Dubai Marina area, a one-day pass is required. Fares vary by route, ranging from Dh1 to Dh75 per person. To avoid queues, you can book your marine ticket online via the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website. After selecting your area, mode of transport, and route, you can purchase tickets, add personal details, and pay online. Tickets will be emailed to you, which you must validate before boarding and deboarding. Alternatively, you can buy tickets at marine stations using cash, Nol card, or credit/debit cards.
Things to remember: Ticket fees are non-refundable. Children under five and people of determination travel for free on marine vessels. Designated seats are available for people of determination, who can also access a free wheelchair for Abra trips by presenting their PoD card to customer service. Only one wheelchair is accommodated per trip. Children aged 2-10 receive a 50% discount on round trip fares for the Dubai Ferry, available only at marine stations. Children under two travel free on abra and Dubai Ferry round trips. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, who must present valid ID. Life jackets are mandatory for children traveling with an adult. Arrive five minutes before your trip for abra and water taxi, and 15 minutes before for the Dubai Ferry. Routes may change due to weather or safety reasons, and misconduct could result in fines.
Routes and fares: Water Taxi, Marina Mall — Marina Walk (BM1) Dh7, One Day Pass: Dh25. Dubai Ferry, Al Ghubaiba — Dubai Canal station (FR1) Dh25 Silver (one way), Dh35 Gold (one way). Abra, Petrol Heritage Abra Dubai Old Souq – Baniyas (CR3) Dh2 per person/per trip in one direction. Note: Routes and fares are subject to change; check the RTA website for updates.
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