Dubai is stunning, no doubt about it! But it’s also no secret that all that beauty can come with a bit of a hefty price tag. And, sometimes, the fluctuating prices can make it a little hard for tourists to navigate their way around the city, without losing their budget just on transport. The good news? It actually is possible to cruise through Dubai without burning a hole in your pocket. With a few clever hacks, you can explore the city and still keep in budget. Here are the top public transport tricks every tourist (and even residents!) should know to help save those extra Dirhams.
Also read: Save On Public Transportation Costs With Annual Dubai Metro Passes
1. Ride The Dubai Tram or Metro For FREE
Here’s a little secret: If you switch between the Metro and the Tram within 30 minutes, your tram ride will cost you… absolutely nothing. All you have to do is tap your Nol card as usual, but you won’t be charged that extra AED 3. And it works both ways – Metro to Tram or Tram to Metro.
This hack is a lifesaver if you’re heading to popular spots like Dubai Marina Mall or JBR, where traffic is always busy. For example, hop off the Metro at DMCC or Sobha Realty station, switch to the Tram, and glide straight to the Marina. And, yes, the only catch is to make sure you stick to that 30-minute window when switching between the two.
2. Dubai Has Water Taxi’s You Can Ride For Just AED 1
Think transport in Dubai is all about fancy cars and metro lines? Think again. One of the coolest (and cheapest) ways to get around is by hopping on a traditional abra, also known as a water taxi. For just AED 1 (yes, less than a cup of karak chai), you can cross the Dubai Creek and soak up gorgeous views of Old Dubai. You’ll float between the historic districts of Deira and Bur Dubai, getting a glimpse of the city’s charm before all the skyscrapers came along. Honestly, it’s one of those must-do things that tourists and residents alike love.
3. Ditch The AED 50 Fee & Top Up Your Nol Card The Easy Way
Your Nol card is basically your golden ticket for getting around Dubai. You use it for the Metro, buses, trams, and you can even pay for Hala taxis with it. But topping up at the Metro station isn’t always convenient. Last year, RTA increased the minimum top-up amounts – AED 20 at self-service machines and AED 50 at customer service counters. That’s a lot if you’re only here for a few days and don’t plan on using public transport much. The life hack? Download the Nol Card app. Through the app, you can check your balance before you leave the house (goodbye awkward low-balance moments) and top up as little as AED 5. It’s faster, easier, and perfect for avoiding those long queues at the station.
Smart hacks like these prove you can still explore, hot cities like Dubai, on a budget. These hacks will make your wallet thank you and you’ll still get to see the best of what the city has to offer.
