Water Taxi Dubai: Guide to Scenic Rides in the UAE

Dubai offers a unique way to explore its beauty through water taxis(Abra). These boats provide a scenic, convenient, and eco-friendly way to travel across Dubai’s waterways, from the historic Dubai Creek to the modern Dubai Marina. Whether you're a tourist or a resident, a water taxi ride is a must-do in the UAE.

How to Book a Water Taxi in Dubai?

Booking a Water Taxi in Dubai is simple and can be done through multiple channels:

1. RTA Website or App:
• Visit the RTA website or download the RTA Dubai app.
• Select “Water Taxi” and choose your route or customize your journey.
• Pay securely online with a credit/debit card.
2. On-Site Booking:
• Head to water taxi stations like Dubai Marina Mall or Al Seef.
• Book directly at the counter for same-day rides.
3. Phone Booking:
• Call RTA at 800-90-90 to reservation

Pro Tip: Book in advance during peak tourist seasons (October - April) to secure your spot.

What are the Popular Water Taxi Routes in Dubai?

Dubai’s water taxis connect various parts of the city:

What are the Abra Routes and Timings?

Motorised Traditional Abra

Explore Dubai Creek and Bur Dubai with motorised traditional abras, ideal for sightseeing around the Old Souk.

• Route 1: Bur Dubai Abra Station to Deira Old Souk Abra Station (and vice versa)
  6:00 AM - 12:00 AM (daily)
• Route 2: Dubai Old Souk Abra Station to Al Sabkha Abra Station (and vice versa)
  24/7
• Fare: AED 1 per person (single trip)
• Private Bookings: AED 60 (30 mins), AED 120 (1 hour)

Air-Conditioned Abra

Comfortable, air-conditioned abras combine tradition and technology, perfect for scenic rides along Dubai Creek and Marina.

• Route 1: Al Jaddaf Marine Station to Dubai Festival City (BM2)
• Mon - Fri: 8:00 AM - 11:30 PM
• Sat - Sun: 8:00 AM - 12:10 AM

• Route 2: Marina Mall to Marina Walk (BM1)
• Mon - Thu: 11:00 AM - 3:50 PM, 10:15 PM - 10:35 PM
• Fri: 11:00 AM - 4:45 PM, 10:15 PM - 11:40 PM
• Sat: 11:00 AM - 4:50 PM, 10:35 PM - 11:40 PM
• Sun: 11:00 AM - 4:50 PM, 10:30 PM - 11:40 PM
• Route 3: Marina Promenade to Marina Mall (BM1)
• Mon - Thu: 1:55 PM - 3:55 PM
• Fri - Sun: 1:55 PM - 4:45 PM
• Route 4: Marina Walk to Marina Terrace (BM1)
• Mon - Thu: 2:00 PM - 3:40 PM
• Fri - Sat: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Sun: 2:00 PM - 4:45 PM

• Route 5 - Marina Mall to Bluewaters (BM3)

• Mon - Thu: 4:50 PM - 11:25 PM
• Fri: 4:50 PM - 11:25 PM
• Sat - Sun: 4:10 PM - 11:45 PM

• Full Route (BM1/BM3)

• Mon - Thu: 4:00 PM - 10:10 PM
• Fri & Sun: 5:10 PM - 10:15 PM
• Sat: 5:00 PM - 10:30 PM
• Fare:
• BM2: AED 2 (one-way)
• Marina Mall to Marina Walk: AED 5
• Marina Promenade to Marina Mall: AED 3
• Marina Walk to Marina Terrace: AED 3
• Marina Mall to Bluewaters: AED 4
• Full Route: AED 3 - 11 (based on stops)

RTA Petrol Heritage Abra

Modernised abras for up to 20 passengers, ideal for exploring Al Fahidi Historical District, souks, Dubai Museum, and Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s house.

• Route 1 - Dubai Old Souq to Baniyas (CR3)

• Mon - Sat: 7:30 AM - 10:55 PM
• Sun: 10:00 AM - 11:35 PM

• Route 2 - Al Sabkha to Al Fahidi (CR4)

• Mon - Sat: 8:00 AM - 10:25 PM
• Sun: 10:00 AM - 11:55 PM

• Route 3 - Al Fahidi to Deira Old Souq (CR5)

• Mon - Sat: 8:00 AM - 10:25 PM
• Sun: 10:00 AM - 11:55 PM

• Route 4 - Al Seef to Baniyas (CR6)

• Mon - Sat: 7:30 AM - 10:50 PM
• Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:20 AM

• Route 5 - Al Seef to Al Fahidi to Dubai Old Souq (CR7)

• Sat - Sun: 3:10 PM - 11:00 PM (no weekday service)

• Route 6 - Dubai Festival City to Dubai Creek Harbor (CR9)

• Sat - Sun: 4:00 PM - 11:55 PM (no weekday service)

• Route 7 - Sheikh Zayed Road to Jumeirah (TR6)

• Daily: 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM
• Fare:
• CR3, CR4, CR5, CR6, CR7, CR9: AED 2 (one-way)
• TR6: AED 25 per person

Electrical Traditional Abra

Eco-friendly abras for up to 8 passengers, offering scenic rides to popular spots like Dubai Mall and Global Village.

• Route 1 - Dubai Mall / Burj Plaza / The Palace
• Daily: 6:00 PM - 11:30 PM
• Route 2 - Global Village
• Daily: 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM
• Fare:
• Dubai Mall / Burj Plaza / The Palace: AED 68.25 per person (25 mins)
  Global Village: AED 52.5 (full abra, 12 - 15 mins)

How Much Does a Water Taxi Cost in Dubai?

Water taxi prices depend on the route, distance, and type of service (shared or private):

Tip: Use your Nol card for shared water taxi rides to save time and money. Discounts may apply for children and seniors.

Best Times to Ride a Water Taxi

The best time for a water taxi ride depends on your preferences:

• Morning: Calm waters and cooler temperatures (8 AM - 11 AM).
• Evening: Stunning sunset views and city lights (5 PM - 8 PM).
• Winter Months (November - March): Ideal weather with temperatures between 20 - 30°C.

Avoid midday rides in summer (June - August) due to high temperatures.

Why Choose a Water Taxi in Dubai?

Water taxis are a fantastic way to experience Dubai’s landmarks from a new perspective. Here’s why they’re popular:

• Scenic Views: Glide past iconic sights like the Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, and traditional souks.
• Convenient Travel: Avoid traffic and enjoy a relaxing ride between key locations.
• Eco-Friendly: Water taxis produce fewer emissions than cars, supporting Dubai’s sustainability goals.
• Unique Experience: Ideal for tourists, families, or a romantic getaway.

Tips for a Great Water Taxi Experience

1. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Light, breathable clothes are best, especially in summer.
2. Bring Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun.
3. Carry a Camera: Capture iconic landmarks from unique angles.
4. Check Weather Conditions: Strong winds may affect schedules.
5. Plan Your Route: Confirm stops and timings with RTA for a smooth trip.

FAQs

1. Are water taxis safe in Dubai?

Yes, water taxis are operated by RTA and follow strict safety protocols, including life jackets and trained staff.

2. Can I book a private water taxi for events?

Yes, private water taxis are available for birthdays, weddings, or corporate events. Contact RTA or tour operators for details.

3. Do water taxis operate at night?

Some routes, like Dubai Marina, offer evening rides with stunning city views. Check RTA schedules for timings.

4. Are water taxis wheelchair-accessible?

Select water taxis are equipped for accessibility. Confirm with RTA when booking.

5. How do water taxis compare to abras?

Abras are traditional wooden boats, cheaper (AED 2 - 5), but less modern. Water taxis offer more comfort and cover longer routes.