Whether you’re thinking of using public transport options more often or helping visiting friends and family get around, it’s always good to be clear on how public transport works in Dubai. Using public transport is indeed one of the easiest, most efficient ways to get around the city. With a world-class system that includes the Dubai Metro, tram, public buses, and water transport, getting from one point to another in the city is simple, affordable, and convenient. But just like anywhere else, there are rules, norms and etiquette to follow.
This guide is a quick refresher on the key dos and don'ts, ideal if you’re new to using public transport, planning to use it more often, or just want to help someone visiting navigate the system smoothly and respectfully.
Do:
1. Carry a valid Nol card
Before boarding any metro, bus or tram, make sure you have a nol card with enough balance. It’s your ticket to access all public transport modes in Dubai. You can top it up at stations or online through apps like nol Pay. There are different types of nol cards, from regular silver to gold card options, depending on your travel preferences.
2. Respect cultural norms and dress modestly.
Dubai is a multicultural city but very much rooted in its own traditions and norms, so modesty is expected in public spaces, including public transport. Both men and women are encouraged to wear respectful, non-revealing clothing. Also carrying alcoholic beverages inside public transport services can get you a fine of Dhs 500.
3. Stand in line and wait your turn
Whether you’re entering a metro train or waiting for a bus, always queue up and let others get off before you board. This makes things faster and more organised for everyone.
4. Respect priority seating
Seats marked for women, children, elderly passengers, and People of Determination should always be given up if needed. Even if a seat appears empty, it’s best not to use it if you’re not the intended user.
5. Use designated cabins
The Dubai Metro has separate cabins for women and children, and a Gold Class cabin for premium users. Make sure you’re sitting in the right section, or you could be fined.
6. Keep the volume down
Whether it’s a phone call or watching videos, keep your volume low and avoid disturbing other passengers. Public transport is a shared space, and quiet journeys are appreciated.
7. Be mindful of eating and drinking rules
Eating or drinking is not allowed on the metro, trams or buses. This rule helps keep public transport clean for everyone. A fine of Dhs 100 can apply for breaking this rule.
8. Follow safety instructions and signs
Always stand behind the yellow line at metro platforms, avoid leaning on train doors, and hold onto handrails on buses and trams. Listen to onboard announcements, which are clear, bilingual, and help ensure a smooth journey.
Don’t:
1. Travel without tapping in or out
Make sure to tap your Nol card before and after your journey. Forgetting to do so could lead to fines, or being charged the maximum fare. It also helps the system calculate your correct fare.
2. Chew gum or smoke onboard
Chewing gum or smoking, including e-cigarettes, are strictly not allowed in metro, tram, and bus systems. This helps maintain cleanliness and convenience for all passengers. Fines for chewing gum is Dhs 100 and for smoking, it is Dhs 200.
3. Sit in the wrong cabins
Men are not allowed in the women and children cabins. Gold Class cabins are only for passengers with gold nol cards. Sitting in the wrong place can lead to a fine of Dhs 100.
4. Block doors or aisles
Avoid standing in front of doors or blocking exits. This delays others and can cause safety issues. Move inside to allow more people to board and exit easily.
5. Litter or vandalise
Keep Dubai’s transport system clean and beautiful. Throw trash in bins, avoid graffiti or damaging property. Fines for littering is Dhs 200, while for vandalism and damage of property, fines can go up to Dhs 2,000.
6. Take photos or videos of others without permission
Respect privacy. Avoid taking photos or recording videos of other passengers. It’s a serious privacy concern and can result in complaints or penalties.
7. Use offensive language or behave rudely
Rudeness, arguments, or aggressive behaviour are not tolerated in public places, including on public transport. Even a small dispute can escalate and result in a fine or police involvement.
8. Try to board a moving bus or train
Never chase after a bus or try to board a train after the doors start closing. It’s dangerous and against the rules.
Dubai’s public transport is clean, efficient and designed with passenger comfort in mind. Whether you're commuting daily or heading out for a family trip, following these dos and don’ts will help you travel responsibly, avoid fines, and enjoy the journey.