Besides an extensive ground transportation system, Dubai has well-developed marine transport, including the Dubai Water Taxi. These modern air-conditioned vessels can be booked to move between 40 stations across the city and enjoy a different perspective of the skyline. Dubai’s boat taxis allow you to escape the hassle of busy roads and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere on the water. However, taking a water taxi does not work the same way as ground taxis. Keep reading to learn how to use and book the Dubai Water Taxi, what are the benefits, stations, routes, prices and more.
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Is the Water Taxi service in Dubai worth it
Dubai Water Taxi is a comfortable and safe mode of transportation that allows you to navigate the city’s waterways. Operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the boats have luxurious cabins with big windows and reclining leather seats. RTA’s water taxis in Dubai fit 10 to 20 passengers and have an equipped space for people using wheelchairs. Please keep in mind that there are no restrooms on board.
Water taxis in Dubai have two functions: commuter and charter. What does it mean? You can book them to be picked up and dropped off at 40 marine stations across the city during regular operation hours. Moreover, you can rent them in advance for a private trip as a charter for a fixed period of time.
Have Fun Dubai’s Tip: These silver-coloured vessels are also currently used as regular water buses on the Dubai Marina Mall — Bluewaters (BM3) route, so don’t get confused.
Dubai Water Taxi stations
The Dubai Water Taxi stations are located throughout the city, making access from different parts of Dubai easy. The Dubai Water Taxi also has several routes that you can choose from, depending on your destination. Some popular routes include Dubai Marina to Palm Jumeirah and Deira Market to Dubai Festival City. The length of the ride depends on the route, but most rides take between 30 minutes to an hour.
Stations in Zone 1 can be found in areas like Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters and Dubai Marina, while Zone 2 covers Dubai Water Canal and Dubai Creek. There are also a few exclusive stations for charter pick-ups. You can find the map for boat taxi stations in Dubai below.
Here is a full list of Dubai Water Taxi stations:
Zone 1
- Dubai Marina Station
- One &Only Royal Mirage Station
- One &Only The Palm Station
- Rixos Hotel Station
- Dubai Marina Mall Station
- Sofitel Resort the Palm Station
- Marina Terrace Station
- Marina Promenade Station
- Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah Station
- Anantara Station
- Bluewaters Station
Zone 2
- Waterfront Market Station
- Deira Old Souq Station
- Al Sabkha Station
- Baniyas Station
- Dubai Festival City Station
- Al Shindagha Station
- Al Fahidi Station
- Al Seef Station
- Creek Park – A Station
- Creek Park – B Station
- Al Boom Tourist Village Station
- Al Ghubaiba Station
- Al Jaddaf Station
- Dubai Canal Station
- Jumeirah Station
- Al Wasl Station
- Al Safa Park Station
- Sheikh Zayed Road Station
- Business Bay Station
- Marasi Station
- Al Wajeha Al Maeyah Station
- Dubai Design District Station
- Godolphin Station
- Souq Al Marfa Station
Charter only stations
- Al Mamzar Station
- La Mer Marine Transport Station
- Jumeirah Beach Park Station
- Jumeirah Beach Hotel Station
- Al Sufouh Station
How to book a Dubai Water Taxi
To book a Dubai Water Taxi, call the RTA customer service centre at a toll-free number 8009090, or send an email to Wtbook@RTA.ae. If you want to rent a private charter, please make sure to do it at least 2 days in advance mentioning your pick-up date and time, number of passengers, departure and arrival points. On your trip date, be ready for boarding 15 minutes before the agreed departure time.
How much is Dubai Water Taxi
The Dubai Water Taxi fare will depend on your route, with prices starting at AED 55 per person. RTA’s boat taxis are also available as private charters, which is perfect for group travel or special occasions. The private charter costs AED 400 per hour and can accommodate up to 10 people.
Water taxi timings
RTA’s water taxis in Dubai operate every day between 15:00 and 23:00. Reservation is required.
Other water transportation options in Dubai
Apart from the Water Taxi, there are several other marine transportation options in Dubai, including water bus, abras and ferries. Traditional motorised abras operate in Dubai Creek and offer an authentic way to explore the historical part of the city. They cost from AED 1 per single trip. Besides that, you can take petrol or electric abras in areas like Dubai Creek, Dubai Water Canal, the Dubai Fountain and Global Village. Using a water bus, you can cheaply hop between the Dubai Marina shores.
I highly recommend taking one of the boat tours in Dubai. You will be spoilt for choice: from cruises on traditional dhow boats to elegant modern yachts. You can set off on a romantic dinner cruise enjoying a glass of champagne with fantastic harbour views, go snorkelling in a group or even rent a private boat charter to celebrate the best time in Dubai.
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