Getting Around UAE: Transport Guide

By air
Air services between the emirates are limited to a few inter-city routes between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It is possible to charter flights within the emirates.

By Road
The emirates have good roads and excellent highways. Traffic keeps to the right. The bus service is extremely limited between cities. Only Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai have a local municipal bus system. Though Abu Dhabi's local buses are not recommended, those of Al Ain and Dubai will drop you off at convenient points. There are mini buses between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Taxis in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain have meters while those in Dubai and other emirates don't, so always negotiate the fare before travelling. Service taxis are inexpensive but be warned that they leave only when they are full. Hitching a ride is not common but for women it is taboo.

Car rentals are easily arranged at hotels and airports. UAE residents are required to have a UAE driving license. For non-residents, the UAE accepts international driving licenses issued by the motor driving authority of the same country as the driver's passport is issued. Licenses issued by other Gulf Cooperation Council states are recognized only if the bearer is driving a vehicle registered in the same GCC state.

By Waterways
The coastal ports are served by commercial and passenger ferry services, while a water taxi service connects Dubai and Deira.