GUIDE
Getting around Dubai: Metro, nol, driving and parking
Guides in this topic
- How do Salik tolls work?
- What should I budget for beyond the price of a car?
- What is a nol card, and where can I use it?
- How do I use Dubai's Metro, buses and trams?
- Can I exchange my overseas licence for a UAE licence?
- Can I drive using my existing driving licence?
- Should I rent, lease or buy a car after moving?
- How do I check and pay traffic fines in Dubai?
- How do I pay for public parking?
- What documents do I need to rent or buy a car?
Public transport
| Mode | Good for | Pay with |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Metro (Red and Green lines) | Commuting along Sheikh Zayed Road, Deira, Bur Dubai, the airport | nol card |
| Dubai Tram | Dubai Marina, JBR, Al Sufouh | nol card |
| Buses | Routes the Metro doesn't reach | nol card |
| Taxis and ride-hailing | Door to door | Cash, card or app |
Get a nol card at any Metro station and keep it topped up. RTA advises keeping a minimum balance of AED 7.50. See how to use the Metro, buses and tram and what a nol card is.
Driving in Dubai
- Visitors can usually drive on a valid home licence or international driving permit, depending on nationality.
- Residents need a UAE driving licence. Some nationalities can exchange their licence, others take lessons and tests.
Read driving on a foreign licence and exchanging your licence.
Rent, lease or buy a car?
Renting suits your first weeks, leasing spreads the cost with servicing often included, and buying is usually cheapest long term. Compare: rent, lease or buy and documents you need.
Running costs
- Salik tolls, charged automatically each time you pass a toll gate: how Salik works.
- Public parking, paid by zone through Parkin: paying for parking.
- Insurance, registration, fuel and servicing: car running costs.
Parking at home
Check how many parking spaces come with your lease before you sign, and register your car with building management to get access. See is parking included? and keys, access cards and parking.
Signed your lease?
Your free move-in checklist puts Ejari, DEWA, cooling, gas, internet and your move-in permit in the right order for your building. Start with what to do after signing.
Common questions
Do I need a car in Dubai?
Not always. If you live and work near the Metro or tram, public transport and taxis can be enough. Villa communities usually need a car.
What is a nol card?
Dubai's travel card for the Metro, tram, buses and some public parking. Buy and top it up at Metro stations, ticket machines or online.
Can I drive in Dubai with my UK or US licence?
Visitors can usually drive on it. Residents need a UAE licence, and several nationalities, including the UK and US, can exchange theirs without a test.
How do Salik tolls work?
A tag on your windscreen is charged automatically each time you pass a toll gate. Keep your account topped up to avoid fines.