Transportation
Travel To, From and Around Dubai
Dubai sits at the crossroads of Asia, Europe and Africa, and is a gateway to the rest of the world. It is conveniently accessible, easy to get around and attracts visitors who are looking for a destination that combines the traditions of the East with the comforts of the West.
Airports and Airlines
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the busiest airport in the Middle East. With an increased passenger capacity from 18 million people per year in 2003 to a projection of 70 million by 2015, the airport is also one of the world’s fastest growing. Located 5 km (3 mi) from the city centre, more than 120 airlines fly to and from Dubai from more than 260 destinations. DXB is also the home of Emirates, the official international airline of the UAE, which operates scheduled services to more than 100 destinations.
Al Maktoum International Airport (JBX), which will be Dubai’s second, is located in Jebel Ali. When fully operational, the new airport is forecast to be the world’s largest, with two mega-terminals, six runways and six concourses that have the capacity to accommodate more than 120 million passengers annually.
Taxis and Rental Cars
An excellent highway system, with road signs in English and Arabic, connects the coastal cities on the Arabian Gulf, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Self- and chauffeur-driven rental cars, as well as taxis, are readily available, travelling freely between the emirates. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
Cars are available from rental companies for visitors who hold an international driving licence. Alternatively, visitors may obtain a temporary local driving licence if they hold a valid national licence from one of 31 recognised countries. For full details about Dubai’s car rental requirements, contact the Traffic Department of the Police online or by phone 24 hours a day at +971 4 269 4444.
Buses
Dubai has an excellent municipal bus service, which also services the airport. Buses run every ten minutes between its terminals and central Dubai.
