Renting a Car in Dubai vs. Public Transport |The Best for Tourist and Residents!

Dubai is a city full of luxury, skyscrapers, and attractions. When you visit, one big decision is how to get around. Should you rent a car or use public transport like buses, taxis, or the metro? This guide compares both options, looking at costs, convenience, and time-saving benefits to help you choose what’s best for you.

1. Transportation Options in Dubai

Dubai has many ways to travel. Here’s a quick look:

• Renting a Car: Renting a car in Dubai from a wide choice of agencies.
• Public Transport: The Dubai Metro, buses, water taxis, and trams are all available.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Taxis and services like Uber and Careem are easy to use.

Each option has pros and cons, depending on your stay’s length and budget.

2. Things to Consider while Renting a Car in Dubai:  

Renting a car in Dubai gives you freedom and flexibility. Here’s what you should know.

2.1 Costs of Renting a Car

Car rental prices vary. You can expect to pay:

• Economy Cars: AED 29–150 per day ($22–$40)
• Mid-Range Cars: AED 70 –300 per day ($40–$82)
• Luxury/SUVs: AED 250–700 per day ($110–$190)

Although renting is more expensive than public transport, it’s convenient if you’re staying for several days or need flexibility.

2.2 Extra Costs

Besides the rental price, consider these additional costs:

• Fuel: AED 2.50 per liter ($0.68), relatively cheap in Dubai.
• Tolls: AED 5 per crossing (Salik tolls).
• Parking: Costs range from AED 5 to AED 20 per hour ($1.40–$5.50).
• Insurance: Most rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage can be costly.

2.3 Convenience of Renting a Car

Having a car means freedom. You can visit places not served by public transport, like:

• Desert safari locations
• Remote resorts and beaches
• Malls and attractions away from the metro

If you’re in Dubai for business, it’s often faster to drive than wait for a taxi or public transport.

2.4 Driving Challenges

While renting a car is convenient, there are some challenges:

• Traffic: Roads get busy, especially during rush hours.
• Parking: It’s hard to find parking in busy areas like Downtown Dubai.
• Road Rules: Dubai has strict driving laws. Fines for speeding or seatbelt violations can be expensive.

3. Public Transport in Dubai: A Budget-Friendly Choice

Public transport is a cheap and easy way to get around. Here’s a breakdown of the options.

3.1 Dubai Metro

The Dubai Metro is quick and efficient. It covers popular areas like:

• Red Line: From Rashidiya to UAE Exchange.
• Green Line: Connecting Deira, Al Rigga, and Bur Dubai.

Metro Costs:

• Single Ride: AED 3–8 ($0.80–$2.20)
• Day Pass: AED 20 ($5.50) for unlimited travel on metro and buses.

The metro is perfect if you’re staying in central areas like Downtown, as it’s close to major attractions. However, it doesn’t go to remote places like the desert.

3.2 Dubai Buses

Buses are a good option for places not covered by the metro. The bus system has over 100 routes.

Bus Costs:

• Single Ride: AED 3–6 ($0.80–$1.60)
• Day Pass: AED 20 ($5.50)

While affordable, buses can be slower, especially during rush hours. They also don’t run as frequently as the metro.

3.3 Trams

The Dubai Tram connects the Dubai Marina area to Al Sufouh, with stops at:

• Jumeirah Beach Residences
• Dubai Marina Mall

Tram Costs:

• Single Ride: AED 3–5 ($0.80–$1.30)
• Day Pass: AED 20 ($5.50)

The tram is useful for visitors in areas like Dubai Marina but isn’t good for long trips.

3.4 Water Taxis and Abra

Water taxis and abras (traditional boats) let you explore Dubai Creek and nearby areas.

Water Taxi Costs:

• Abras: AED 1 per ride ($0.27)
• Water Taxis: AED 50–100 per ride ($13.60–$27)

These are fun but not practical for daily travel unless you’re near the creek.

3.5 Convenience of Public Transport

Dubai’s public transport is fast, clean, and modern. The metro, buses, and trams are well-connected to attractions, malls, and business areas. But, there are some downsides:

• Limited Coverage: It doesn’t cover remote areas like the desert or resorts.
• Waiting Times: You may have to wait during rush hours.
• Crowds: Public transport can get crowded at peak times.

4. Renting a Car vs. Public Transport: Cost Comparison

Here’s how the costs stack up for a 3-day stay:

Expense	Renting a Car (Economy)	Using Public Transport
Car Rental	AED 240 ($65)	N/A
Fuel	AED 40 ($11)	N/A
Parking	AED 60 ($16)	N/A
Tolls (Salik)	AED 25 ($7)	N/A
Metro/Buses	N/A	AED 20–50 ($5.50–$14)
Taxis (if needed)	N/A	AED 30–100 ($8–$27)
Total	AED 365 ($99)	AED 50–150 ($14–$41)

• Renting a Car: Costs about AED 365 for three days, excluding food and extra expenses.
• Public Transport: Using the metro, buses, and taxis costs between AED 50 and AED 150.

So, if you plan to stay in the city, public transport is often cheaper.

5. Time-Saving: Which Option Saves More Time?

Renting a car can save time, especially if you need to reach places not served by public transport. You don’t need to wait for taxis or buses. However, traffic during rush hours can slow you down.

• Renting a Car: Offers door-to-door convenience, but there may be traffic delays.
• Public Transport: Waiting times and crowded trains may cost you some time.

If you want to explore Dubai more freely and visit remote locations, renting a car may be your best choice. However, for budget travelers staying in the city center, public transport offers a convenient and cheaper option.