Getting Around United Arab Emirates
Buses
Exploring the UAE is not really a popular nor practical possibility for inter-state transport; most residents live in the cities where local buses and taxis are the norm. Local buses are easily found in cities such as Dubai and fares are low.
Taxis
Taxis are the preferred way to get around the UAE’s cities being both frequent and reliable. In Dubai for example the cream coloured Dubai Transport Corporation taxis are metered, clean and comfortable. Fares are not negotiable as the metres are always used. Other non-metered taxis also operate and negotiation is required here.
Abra’s, shared water taxis, operate on Dubai Creek and leave on a ‘when full’ basis between early morning and midnight.
Car Hire
This is a most popular way of exploring the UAE, especially for those visiting for stays other than shopping trips. Prices are not particularly high. Roads for example between Dubai, Sharjah and Ras al Khaimah are good but elsewhere need care. There is much traffic along this coast with traffic jams in Dubai particularly acute at rush hour.
Driving
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
Boats
Sightseeing by traditional boat, the dhow, is possible from Dubai and the abras of Dubai Creek provide both locals and visitors with a great way of getting around. Routes are Bur Dubai Abra Station to Deira Old Souk Abra Station, and the Dubai Old Souk Abra Station to the Sabakha Abra Station. Fare is around 50 fils.
