Getting around Dubai: a complete guide for international students
When you decide to make a exchange in Dubai, one of the first concerns is how to get around the city. The good news is that Dubai offers one of the most modern and efficient transportation systems in the world, combining convenience, safety, and comfort. Let's explore all the options available so you can make the most of your city experience.
Planning your trips
Before arriving in Dubai, it's important to understand how the city's transportation dynamics work. Proper planning of your daily commutes can save you considerable time and money. During peak hours (7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.), the subway and main thoroughfares are busiest, especially in commercial regions such as Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai.
To optimize your routes, consider that the average commute between areas popular with students is usually:
- Dubai Marina to Dubai Knowledge Village: 15-20 minutes by subway
- Downtown Dubai to Academic City: 30-35 minutes by bus
- Palm Jumeirah to Dubai Media City: 20-25 minutes by tramway
An important aspect is the climate: from June to September, when the temperatures are higher, prioritize routes that minimize outdoor walks. Metro stations and bus stops are connected by air-conditioned walkways in various regions of the city.
Integrated transport system
Dubai has developed an impressive urban mobility infrastructure, which connects all the important points of the city through different modes of transport. The system is managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), which maintains high quality and punctuality standards. The international students who decide Study and work in the United Arab Emirates can easily move between universities, residential areas and tourist spots using a combination of subway, bus, tram and taxi.
Payment system: understanding the Nol card
The Nol card is the key to using public transport in Dubai. There are different types available:
- Silver card: The most popular option among students, ideal for regular use. It costs 25 AED (with 19 AED starting credit) and can be recharged with amounts between 5 and 500 AED.
- Gold card: It offers access to the Gold Class on the subway and bus, with a more exclusive environment. It costs 50 AED (with 44 AED starting credit) and the rates are double the standard class.
- Blue card: Personalized and linked to your name, it offers benefits such as automatic recharge and credit recovery in the event of a loss. Ideal for long stays.
The system of tariff zones is divided into:
- Zone 1: Central Areas (3 AED per trip)
- Zone 2: Intermediate regions (5 AED per trip)
- Zone 3: More distant areas (7.5 AED per trip)
Students can save with monthly passes, which offer discounts of up to 30% off regular rates.
Dubai Metro: The Future of Mobility
The Dubai Metro is a notable example of innovation in public transportation. Fully automated and driverless, it covers major regions of the city, including Dubai International Airport. The system offers different classes to meet the needs of passengers:
Gold Class
- Exclusive wagons with more comfortable and spacious seats
- Less crowded environment, ideal for studying while traveling
- Free premium WiFi with higher speed
- Differentiated rate (double the standard price)
- Onboard service on some specific lines
Standard Class
- Regular wagons with excellent standard of comfort
- Air conditioning system and free Wi-Fi
- Clearly marked preferred seats
- Regular rate with excellent value for money
Women and Children Only
- Exclusive wagon for women and children
- Same rate as standard class
- More reserved and comfortable environment
- Constant surveillance to ensure exclusivity
Traveling Safely: A Guide for Women
Dubai is considered one of the safest cities in the world for women, but some guidelines are important:
- Exclusive Transportation: In addition to the specific wagons in the subway, you can opt for pink-roofed taxis, driven exclusively by female drivers. This service can be requested through the RTA app with the “Ladies Taxi” option.
- Cultural Codes: Dress appropriately on public transport, covering shoulders and knees to respect local culture. This helps to avoid any type of discomfort.
- Night Schedules: Although Dubai is safe 24 hours a day, we recommend that students use taxi or car services by app after 23:00, especially if they are alone.
- Security Apps: The Dubai Police SOS app allows you to quickly call for help in the event of an emergency. Keep it installed on your phone.
VLT and Palm Monorail
The Light Rail Vehicle (Light Rail Vehicle) system complements the subway, serving important areas such as Dubai Media City and Dubai Knowledge Village - regions with a large concentration of educational institutions. The Palm Monorail offers spectacular views of the city while connecting strategic points on the Palm Jumeirah.
Bus: Connecting the entire city
The Dubai bus system operates practically 24 hours a day, with main routes running from 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., and some high-demand lines operating around the clock. The buses are modern, air conditioned and equipped with free Wi-Fi, making travel comfortable even on the hottest days.
Essential apps for mobility
To optimize your displacements, install and configure:
- RTA Dubai: Information about bus schedules, station locations and mParking service
- Dubai Metro: Train schedules and station information in real time
- S'hail: Official app for calling taxis with English interface
- Careem: Popular mobility service in the region with competitive prices
Active mobility and alternatives
During the winter months (November to March), when the weather is milder, Dubai offers excellent hiking and biking options. Explore:
- Boardwalks at the Dubai Marina for beachfront walks
- Historic Al Seef neighborhood to explore local culture
- Professional bike paths for experienced cyclists
- Adequate infrastructure for bicycles close to universities
Be Easy: Your Support for Mobility in Dubai
Na Be Easy, we understand that adaptation to the transportation system is essential for a positive exchange experience. Our team offers:
- Full guidance on transportation options before traveling
- Assistance in obtaining the Nol card and necessary documentation
- Personalized tips based on your university's location
- Ongoing support throughout your stay in Dubai
Want to learn more about how to make your mobility experience in Dubai smoother? Get in touch with our expert advisors and start planning your study journey in the United Arab Emirates.
