Transfers vs. Other Ways to Travel from Dubai Airport
Dubai Airport is not only the busiest airport in the world, but also the one with the biggest territory. The way from one terminal to another one may take up to 25 minutes. Many tourists arrive first at Dubai Airport to start here their journey across the country to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Umm al Quwain or Ajman. Arab Emirates are located in the middle of the desert and there are no trains in the country. That’s why, one can only travel between the regions by car or by bus (11 routes in total).
How to get from Dubai Airport to city center, or the other way round
Distance between the airport and Dubai downtown is only 5 km. However, the city stretches along the coast of the Persian Gulf, so many hotels are at least 30–40 km away from the airport. Luckily, there are many types of transport running from Dubai Airport to the city:
- city buses (№2, 4, 11, 15, 33, 44, 401, 402). Tickets cost from 2 dollars;
- two subway lines: a red one (to the center) and a green one. Subway is closed at night. Fare is paid according to the city zones;
- taxi, booked on-site or via the app. Because of taxi monopoly in Dubai, all the companies on the market (“Cars”, “Metro” and “National taxis”), belong to the state. By the way, a colorful car roof points to a particular purpose (for example, pink cars are only for women: both drivers and passengers);
- transfer, booked in advance.
Buses from Dubai center run even at night, and the red subway line runs along all most popular hotels in the city. That is why public transport is a good option for all those travellers, who are not afraid of getting lost and can stand a minimum discomfort.
Transfer from Dubai Airport vs. Taxi booked via the app
Advantages of a private transfer
Travel legally. Uber is still working in the country half legally. UAE’s legislation does not regulate such activity, which means, you will not be given a receipt. In case of problems, it will be unclear who is responsible for your trip. All Kiwitaxi drivers are certified to work in transport sphere and you can get a bill for our service.
Don’t wait for the car. When booking a taxi via the app, you will have to wait. Whereas, a taxi booked on-site or transfer booked in advance will let you get in the car right after leaving the arrivals area. That is how Uber clients complain about taxi delay:
Better service for the same money. You can leave the airport for 130 dirhams (35,8 dollars) by local taxi, or you can order a transfer from Dubai Airport for 38 dollars with personal meeting, help with luggage, and a small city tour.
Transfer vs. Taxi from Dubai Airport, booked on site
Advantages of a private transfer
Directly to your destination. Tourists complain that taxi drivers often get lost in Dubai center, not mentioning the Emirates they are not familiar with, so they often have no idea where to drive tourists. They start driving circles and asking strangers in the street, which affects the time and cost of the trip. Transfer drivers have your destination address in advance and plan the route on maps before your arrival.
No extra payment for airport pick-up. Transfer price is always fixed, whereas taxi cost considerably depends on pick-up location. A taxi from Dubai Airport will cost 7 dollars, whereas a minimum trip price within the city limits is only 2.5 dollars.
Disadvantage of a private transfer
Twice as expensive. Taxi from Dubai Airport to Palm Jumeirah will cost $21 ($7 starting fee + $14 metered for 32 km). In case of transfer, you will pay $40 to the same destination.
Transfer vs. Subway from Dubai Airport
Advantages of a private transfer
No need to walk with a suitcase to the hotel. Even if your hotel is located near the subway station, you will have to cross the distance between the station and hotel reception, carrying your luggage. When booking transfer, our driver will help you with your suitcases and bring you directly to the hotel door.
You can leave the airport at night. Subway is closed at night. So, if you arrived after midnight, you will have to wait till 6 before the subway is open. Transfers from Dubai Airport operate 24 hours.
Disadvantage of a private transfer
More expensive. Subway ticket price depends on the city zone. On average, you will have to cross 3-4 zones to get from Dubai Airport to the city center and pay around 2 dollars per person.
Transfer vs. Buses from Dubai Airport
Advantages of a private transfer
No need to wait for transport in the heat. Buses depart from Dubai Airport every 20 minutes, so if you are late, you will have to wait for the next bus in the sun at 40-45°С. Transfer, on the opposite, is provided by the time of your arrival and you will get in the car with air conditioner immediately.
Twice as fast. Although the buses in Dubai are new, they go to the downtown considerably slowlier, than subway or transfer. A trip by city bus to Dubai including waiting time will take around 1,5 hours, whereas transfer will get you to your destination in 45 minutes.
Disadvantage of a private transfer
More expensive. Bus ticket costs 2 dollars per passenger (up to 4 dollars to remote hotels).
