Experience Dubai from the water with its iconic water transport options, including abras, ferries, and water buses. Using your Nol Card, you can enjoy a scenic ride across Dubai Creek or the Marina while soaking in the city’s stunning skyline. Perfect for tourists and locals, water transport offers a unique way to travel. Here’s your guide to Dubai’s water transport in 2025.
Overview of Water Transport in Dubai
Dubai’s water transport, operated by the RTA, includes traditional abras, modern ferries, and air-conditioned water buses. These services operate on Dubai Creek, the Marina, and coastal routes, connecting historical areas like Deira and Bur Dubai with modern hotspots like Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah.
Types of Water Transport
- Abras: Traditional wooden boats on Dubai Creek, connecting Deira and Bur Dubai.
- Ferries: Modern boats linking Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and coastal areas like Al Ghubaiba to Sharjah.
- Water Buses: Air-conditioned boats in Dubai Marina, offering a comfortable ride with panoramic views.
Water Transport Fares and Nol Card Usage
Fares vary by service, and your Nol Card makes payment easy. Tap your card on the reader when boarding: Service Fare (AED, Silver Card) Abra (Dubai Creek) 2 Water Bus (Marina) 3-5 Ferry (e.g., Marina to Palm) 15-25
Tip: Use a Silver Nol Card for the best value on water transport.
Water Transport Timings and Routes
Timings vary by service:
- Abras: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM (every 5 minutes).
- Water Buses: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (every 15-20 minutes).
- Ferries: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (check RTA schedules for specific routes).
Popular Routes: Bur Dubai to Deira (Abra), Dubai Marina to Palm Jumeirah (Ferry), Marina Walk to Marina Mall (Water Bus).
Tips for Using Water Transport
- Take an abra ride at sunset for breathtaking views of Dubai Creek.
- Check ferry schedules on the RTA website or S’hail app, as they’re less frequent.
- Opt for a water bus in Dubai Marina for a cool, air-conditioned experience.
- Carry your Nol Card—some services don’t accept cash.
Explore More with Your Nol Card
Your Nol Card works across all Dubai transport modes. Combine your water journey with the Metro, buses, or trams to explore more of Dubai.