Exploring Glitzy the City tour of Dubai on Public Transportation
If you’re heading to the glamorous city tour of Dubai, you may think a tour bus or guided excursion Dubai 1-day tour is the only way to properly see the sights. However, with a bit of route planning and an adventurous spirit, you can have an awesome day touring Dubai’s top attractions using only public transportation.
However, with a bit of route planning and an adventurous spirit, you can have an awesome day touring Dubai’s top attractions using only public transportation.
What is Public Transportation in Dubai?
Dubai has a modern, efficient network of buses, metro trains, trams, abra water taxis, and even Uber boats to help visitors navigate the sprawling city. Key public transit options include:
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Big Bus Dubai Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour
If you want more flexibility than public transit alone provides, consider the Big Bus Dubai hop-on, hop-off tour Dubai 1-day tour. This open-top, double-decker bus offers three sightseeing routes, allowing you to create custom excursions and short day trips from Dubai.
Here are some ca-n’t-miss tourist spots easily accessible by public transportation:
Burj Khalifa
The world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, should be at the top of any Dubai visitor’s list. Take the metro red line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station or hop off a sightseeing bus there. Marvel at the building’s sheer enormity, snap iconic pics at the lakefront, then check out the Dubai Mall or fountains using the convenient underground walkways leading from the metro station.
Dubai Creek and Old Dubai
To experience historic Dubai, head via metro or bus to any of the stops along Dubai Creek. This scenic waterway divides glittering new Dubai from the older neighborhoods of Deira and Bur Dubai where Dubai got its start as a small fishing and pearling village. Wander through atmospheric markets and alleyways, ride an abra across the creek, and learn about Dubai’s history by visiting Dubai Museum, the ethnographic Bastakiya Quarter, or Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House.
Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah This man-made archipelago shaped like a palm tree is an iconic Dubai sight. Take the monorail located at the base of the Palm to tour all the way to the end for epic skyline views. Or opt for a public beach bus to Atlantis Resort, where you can explore or even splurge on admission to Aquaventure Water Park. Several stops on Big Bus routes also allow access to Palm Jumeirah hotels, beaches, malls, and entertainment options.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina Dubai continues to push development along its coast, with Dubai Marina being a prime example. Hop off at Dubai Marina metro station or tram station to immerse yourself in this luxurious neighborhood filled with glittering skyscrapers, lively pubs and cafes, and beautiful people. Snap pics as you take a scenic stroll along Marina Walk or hop aboard an hour-long boat tour from Marina Mall to see top Dubai sights from a water perspective.
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque This majestic mosque is the only one in Dubai open to non-Muslim visitors looking to learn about Emirati culture and religion. Multiple Big Bus route stops nearby allow easy access. Just be sure to book your one-hour mosque tour slot in advance on their website to avoid sold out entry times. Modest dress is required.
Sheikh Zayed Road
Sheikh Zayed Road is where you’ll find most of Dubai’s famous skyscrapers. Luckily, much of the 12-14 lane highway runs alongside the metro red line. Hop on at a convenient station like the Mall of the Emirates or Financial Center to take in all the towering architectural marvels as you zip by on the metro.
Pro Tips for Touring Dubai Without a Car
Follow this advice for smooth public transportation-based sightseeing:
Purchase a NOL card for metro and bus discounts – It provides 25-40% off regular fares. Easily refill with credits whenever needed during your stay.
Get a sightseeing transport pass if available – Options like The Big Bus Dubai offer unlimited hop-on, hop-off usage at key tourist spots using their open-top bus network
Check metro station layouts before heading out – Some stations have multiple unconnected underground levels serving each direction, which can be confusing to navigate with luggage or strollers.
Give yourself plenty of travel time – Dubai attractions are spread out, so journeys can take 30+ minutes even on direct metro lines.
Confirm operation times/days for certain transit options – Abras boats may halt service to cross Dubai Creek on Fridays for prayer times. The tram and sightseeing buses also have more limited hours.
Watch your belongings – Unfortunately, pickpockets occasionally target tourists distracted snapping photos on crowded metro trains and buses.
Avoid relying on just taxis/Uber to sightsee – Dubai’s cheap rideshares and plentiful taxis make it easy to fall into the habit of quick private trips. But costs add up fast, diminishing Dubai vacation budgets.
Enjoy a Flexible, Affordable Dubai Vacation
Avoid congested highways and save money over packaged excursions by seeing top Dubai attractions using public transportation options. With proper route planning and realistic expectations, you can have an awesome time touring Dubai via metro trains, open-top sightseeing buses, abra boats, trams, Uber boats, and more!
So try a creative, flexible public transit-based Dubai itinerary for your next UAE vacation. Hop between exotic sights and have a wonderful day navigating this one-of-a-kind desert metropolis.
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What is the best way to take a city tour of Dubai using public transportation?
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