With its architecture, skylines, malls, beaches, and grandeur, Dubai is among the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world. However, navigating the city can be challenging without a vehicle. Should I rent a car in Dubai or use public transport?
Public transport and Dubai car rentals each have their pros and cons. Your decision will ultimately boil down to your preferences, budget, plans, and plans. In this guide, we break down both sides of the argument to help you decide.
Dubai: A Brief Introduction
As you’d expect, Dubai is a sprawling metropolis. Unlike most European cities, it’s not particularly pedestrian-friendly, apart from specific areas like Downtown Dubai, Marina Walk, or City Walk. Malls, landmarks, and business districts are spread across the city, connected by roads and highways.
Over the last two decades, Dubai has invested heavily in building a public transport system, with a metro and bus network that is rapidly expanding. However, the city’s public transport convenience is largely catered to car owners. That’s why many tourists and locals turn to Dubai car rentals to move around freely, while others rely on the simplicity of public transport.
Pros of Renting a Car in Dubai
Flexibility and convenience
If you’re renting a car in Dubai, you’re in control of your time. Instead of sticking to the train schedule or relying on a ride-hailing service, you can go where you want, whenever you want.
As travelers often want to cover the desert, the mountains, and the coastline during their visit, renting a car is the best way to go. Plus, it’s ideal for parents with kids, business travelers on a tight schedule, or people visiting hard-to-reach locations.
Saving time
If you rent a car in Dubai, you’ll never have to waste time waiting for the metro or stuck in a long taxi queue during rush hour. Dubai’s highways are smooth and fast-moving, making it a great place to drive.
Also, Dubai doesn’t make you wait in lines for taxis or worry about traffic. You also don’t need to worry about salik gates if you stick to the routes mentioned later in this article.
Comfort and privacy
One of the biggest perks of having your own car in Dubai is the privacy and comfort it provides. Especially during the peak hour rush, it can be tough to find a seat on the train or bus, even in the quiet cabin.
In a car, you can return from the beach with sand in your hair or shop at the Dubai Mall without worrying about your shoes and clothes. Whether it’s a formal meeting or a family dinner, you can drive to the location without being jostled by other commuters.
Availability of parking
While parking is scarce in most major cities, Dubai has plentiful free and paid spaces in malls, commercial areas, hotels, and attractions. Using the RTA system, most of the spots are marked and easy to find.
Cost-effectiveness for groups
If you’re traveling with family or friends, you can divide the cost of the rental between several people instead of spending money on metro or taxi fares every day. Many long-term rentals are even discounted, making it a good choice for travelers staying in Dubai for an extended period.
Pros of Using Public Transport in Dubai
Affordability
While you can argue that renting a car in Dubai is more affordable in the long term, public transport is cheaper. Dubai has an extensive metro, bus, abras (water taxi), and tram network. You can use a Nol card on all of them.
With that card, you can visit most major tourist destinations in Dubai at a low cost, compared to renting a car or taking cabs. Backpackers, solo travelers, and budget travelers can take advantage of this.
Connected metro
The Dubai metro is clean, comfortable, air-conditioned, and on time. The Red Line connects major destinations like Dubai International Airport, Deira, Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, and Jebel Ali. The trains are always on time and run every few minutes during rush hour, even if you wait for a few minutes, they’re rarely overcrowded.
The Green Line connects many residential and older areas like Al Ghubaiba and Al Qusais, making it a suitable solution for most tourist hotspots.
Eco-friendliness
One of the reasons you should use public transport is that it’s more environmentally friendly. Dubai’s public transport authority is working hard to create a greener transport system. If you’re an eco-conscious traveler, opting for the metro or tram instead of renting a car aligns better with your beliefs.
Convenience
When you choose to drive in a new city, there’s always the hassle of figuring out local road signs, following new rules, and avoiding speed cameras. As a result, you’re less likely to focus on your trip. If you’re more concerned about a stress-free vacation where you don’t have to worry about salik gates, tickets, or parking, you should use public transport.
Safety and cleanliness
Dubai’s public transport is clean and among the safest in the world. It’s well-maintained, with surveillance and signs in both English and Arabic. It also has separate cabins for women and children. It’s especially useful for female travelers or solo travelers who are not familiar with the city.
Before You Decide
When it comes to public transport vs. renting a car in Dubai, there’s no definitive answer. Here are a few guidelines that can help you make the right decision:
If you’re in Dubai for a short period (less than a week), you’re better off using public transport. There’s little need for the paperwork, deposit, and car insurance that comes with a car rental. However, if you’re staying in Dubai for a week or more, you’re better off with a rental.
If you’re visiting malls, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Marina, public transport and taxis will work. If you’re also visiting Hatta, Ras Al Khaimah, or Abu Dhabi, renting a car is a must.
Travel companions
While solo travelers may be able to save money on metro and cabs, families, senior travelers, and friends may benefit from a car. Sometimes, having your own vehicle is easier than fitting in a crowded bus or metro during rush hour.
Experience with driving abroad
Driving in large cities is often nerve-racking. However, if you’re used to driving in Dubai’s traffic, you’ll feel at home. If you’re used to driving in small towns, renting a car in Dubai may be more difficult.
Accessibility
If you have accessibility needs, a rental car can be modified to suit you. For example, most taxi cabs are accessible, but metro and bus lines may have different limitations based on the station or the vehicle type.
Renting a Car vs. Public Transport: Costs Compared
Here’s a quick breakdown of the daily costs for reference:
Costing Renting a Car Public Transport
Vehicle $80 – $150 None
Fuel $20 – $30 None
Parking $5 – $20 None
Salik gates $4 – $16 None
Public transport None $7.5 – $20
Taxis (Occasional) None $30 – $100
Total $110 – $200 $40 – $120
If you’re commuting between distant places or traveling with a group, a rental car makes sense. However, if you’re visiting mostly areas near the metro, you can easily stick to public transport.
Dubai’s Driving Laws You Should Know
Driving in Dubai isn’t too different from other cities. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
You drive on the right-hand side of the road.
There are speed cameras everywhere. Obey the speed limits.
Salik gates are located on major highways. Stick to these routes to avoid paying extra.
If you have to make a call, keep your phone on hands-free.
Don’t drink and drive. Dubai’s police do not tolerate this behavior.
If you’re visiting Dubai for the first time, you need a valid UAE driving license or an International Driving Permit.
Summary: Which Is the Right Choice for You?
Here are a few guidelines for making the right decision:
If you’re visiting Dubai for a short time, use public transport. It’s cost-effective, safe, clean, and expanding.
If you’re visiting malls, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Marina, public transport and cabs are good enough. If you’re also visiting Hatta, Ras Al Khaimah, or Abu Dhabi, you should rent a car.
If you’re visiting with friends or family, you’re better off with a rental. However, if you’re traveling alone, you’re better off with public transport.
If you’re visiting Dubai for a long time, you should rent a car. You can even split the cost between people. Otherwise, you have to pay the cab fare daily.
Conclusion
Both public transport and car rentals have their advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences, travel plans, and budget. Many travelers search for “Dubai car rentals” to find the cheapest rental deals. However, they never ask if they even need a car during their visit.
To make the right decision, analyze your travel goals, budget, and preferred comfort levels. With this guide, you’re well-positioned to make the right decision and enjoy Dubai on your terms.