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Dubai Public Transportation in 2023

6 min read
Published: 09 Mar 2023

In the year 2023, the transport system in Dubai is expected to be more modern and efficient than ever. With an extensive range of options for commuters, Dubai is sure to be one of the most forward-thinking cities in terms of transportation. From taxis and public transport cards called NOL cards to buses and metros, trams and a monorail, and even water transport - there are so many ways to get around the UAE’s largest city.


  • Taxis remain a popular choice for many expats living in Dubai. Most taxis are operated by the Road & Transport Authority (RTA) and are conveniently located at major locations such as malls and airports. Taxis can be booked via the apps in Dubai like Careem or hailed directly in the street by waving your hand at passing cabs.


  • The NOL card is a reloadable card that allows travelers to access all public transportation services in Dubai, including buses, water buses, metros, and trams. It’s easy to purchase an NOL card from any RTA station or from retailers across Dubai, and it works just like a debit card, with money being deducted every time you use it on public transport networks.


  • Dubai has an extensive bus network that connects different parts of town with several bus routes running throughout the day. Bus fares usually depend on distance, but there are discounted fares available for those holding NOL cards. All buses in Dubai are air-conditioned, with comfortable seating, free WiFi, and USB ports for charging devices while traveling.


  • The metro system is another convenient way to get around town and is made up of two lines: The Red Line runs from Rashidiya to Jebel Ali, while The Green Line runs from Etisalat Station to Creek Station. The metro offers an inexpensive way to travel between different parts of Dubai, with fares starting from AED 2 per trip depending on travel distance. Metro stations also have convenient facilities such as information booths, prayer rooms, ATMs, retail shops, and plenty of parking spaces for cars as well as bicycles for those wanting a greener alternative!


  • The monorail system is fairly new, having only been launched in 2009. Still, it’s already become popular among commuters due to its speedy connection between Palm Jumeirah Islands and Discovery Gardens area on Sheikh Zayed Road. There are plans for future expansion, so watch this space!


  • Trams are also becoming increasingly popular in recent times, with two lines connecting Al Sufouh Road with JBR stations which offer access to RTA's light rail network called Tramlink, which covers most areas around New Dubai, including Business Bay district and Al Sufouh road area near Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). Finally, there's also water transportation options available in Dubai, such as ferries that operate between Palm Jumeirah Island's Marina district and the Deira creek area near Gold Souk market, where passengers can hop onto an abra (small wooden boat) or larger vessels that cruise along the waterways which make for great sightseeing trips too!


  • Transport fines are issued when rules aren't followed when using public transport systems such as when fare rates aren't paid correctly or when riding without tickets/cards etc., so make sure you always pay your fare correctly when using any form of public transportation!


So whether you're looking to get around quickly via taxi or you want something more affordable like taking one of the many public transportation networks available, be sure that your travels around Dubai will be safe, secure, and efficient thanks to its myriad of transport options in 2023!

What Should I Know About Dubai Public Transportation Fines in 2023

Dubai is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, with an ever-growing population. As the city grows, so does its public transportation network. As was said above, there are many ways to get around Dubai, including buses, trams, taxis, monorails, and more. You can even use an NOL card to pay for your trip! But if you use the Dubai public transportation system wrong, you could get fined a lot of money. In this article, we'll explain how to stay safe when using Dubai's public transport system and how to avoid any associated fines. We'll also discuss some of the changes that are taking place in Dubai's public transport system in 2023. With this information, expats in Dubai won't have to worry about getting fined as they move around the city.

Taxis in Dubai

Taxis are a popular way to get around Dubai, especially for tourists who are there for a short time. However, there are certain rules that must be followed when using them, such as not hailing taxis from unauthorized areas or not using the taxi meter. Failure to do so can result in fines ranging from AED 50 to 200 (USD 13 to 55). In addition, passengers may be subject to fines of up to AED 500 (USD 136) for any damage to the taxi.

NOL Cards

The NOL card is an easy way for people living in and visiting Dubai to pay for their public transportation fares. The NOL card can be used on all forms of public transportation, including buses and trains. If you use a card that has expired or doesn't have enough money on it, you could be fined AED 50 to 500 (USD 13 to 136). There is also a fine for traveling without valid tickets, which is AED 400 (USD 109).

Buses in Dubai

Buses provide another efficient means of getting around Dubai, with routes connecting all major areas of the city. The fines here are slightly more lenient than other forms of transportation, with individuals found traveling without valid tickets fined only AED 200 (USD 55). Also, people who cause any kind of trouble, like smoking or eating on board, can get an AED 100 (USD 27) fine.

The Metro and Monorail

Two other popular forms of transport in Dubai are the Metro and Monorail systems, which both offer efficient connections across long distances throughout the city. Rules vary between both, but generally, passengers must follow safety instructions or risk facing fines up to AED 500 (USD 136). Also, people who travel without valid tickets can be fined up to AED 400 (USD 109), depending on which line they are on.

Trams in Dubai

The recently opened tram system provides another efficient way for residents and visitors alike to get around more quickly than before. As such, violations such as smoking or failing to show the correct fare will result in fines ranging from AED 100 to 200 (USD 27 to 55). Also, anyone caught vandalizing property in a tram station could get an extra fine of up to AED 1,000 (USD 272).

Water Transport 

Last but not least, there is water transportation, which is often overlooked compared to other ways to get around. However, traveling along the city's many rivers and waterways can give you great views of the skyline. Here the rules include no drinking alcohol onboard or riding without paying applicable fares, which may attract fines between AED 100 to 400 (USD 27 to 109) depending on the severity of the violation committed.


As a resident or visitor to Dubai, it's important to follow all of the rules set by the authorities when using these different kinds of transportation. If you don't, you could get fined a lot if you don't follow the rules. According to the examples above, it's clear that violations will typically result in fines between AED 50 to 500. However, greater sums may be imposed if deemed necessary by officials responsible. So, of course, you'll experience comfortable rides within this modern metropolitan area, but make sure to read up on regulations beforehand to prevent yourself from hefty inconveniences later down the line!

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