Getting around UAE is one of the first things you figure out as a visitor or expat. Taxis, metro lines, buses and the unwritten rules locals follow shape your daily routine more than any guidebook.
In UAE, getting around comes down to a few things: taxis are cheap and everywhere, the metro is pristine, and driving culture is intense.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have metered cream/gold taxis. Rides are affordable — a 20-minute trip rarely exceeds 30 AED. Careem and Uber work seamlessly.
Tip: Pink-roofed taxis are women-and-family only. Men traveling alone cannot use them.
Dubai Metro is driverless, air-conditioned, and spotless. Gold Class carriages cost extra but are worth it during rush hour. A Nol card works across metro, tram, and buses.
Tip: There's a dedicated women-and-children cabin at the front. Fines for being in the wrong section are enforced.
Everyone drives. Roads are wide and well-maintained but speeds are high and lane discipline is creative. Flashing headlights means 'move over, I'm coming through.'