Dubai Ferry: Routes, Timings, Tickets & Must-See Views

The traffic congestion became a major issue as the huge surge of tourists, However, authorities in Dubai have worked hard to improve the transport mechanisms in the city. The focus is to develop a strong, friendly transportation network that works well for both residents and tourists. Despite being a relatively new addition to the Emirate’s expanding public and tourist transport system, the Dubai Ferry project has surely made Dubai’s transport more manageable and tourist-friendly. Usually, the word ferry is used for a boat and it is a regular means of transport for the local population. However, the Dubai Ferry is more of a tourist attraction. The route of Dubai Ferry as designed by the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) covers areas of interest for tourists. The ferry starts and returns to the same station with each trip lasting for about sixty or ninety minutes.

Most of us reading this article, might have seen the Dubai Skyline, while zipping through the infamous Sheikh Zayed Road(SZR) which runs through Dubai’s Heart with towering skyscrapers gazing at either side. What about seeing the same towering skyline via a Ferry Boat. Dubai Ferry was opened in 2011 and each boat can take around 100 passengers. It goes along the Creek and then out into the Arabian Gulf towards and behind the SZR skyline, the Burj Al Arab, Legendary Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and then into the Marina Area. You also see the trunk road of Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis. You can go outside the cabin area of Dubai Ferry to take pictures in fresh air.

Top Attractions to See from the Dubai Ferry

One of the biggest perks of the Dubai Ferry is the breathtaking views. The Dubai ferry covers major attractions of Dubai, like Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah. It is worthwhile to experience Dubai from the waterways.

Pro Tips: 

If you take a Ferry from Bur Dubai to Dubai Marina, ask for directions to HSBC bank in Bur Dubai and not Al Ghubaiba Boat Station, as its old Landmark. If you get down at Marina Mall station, be prepared to walk for a bit to find a taxi, you end up in the middle of a slightly strange and very quiet section of the Marina, not the Marina Mall area which is bustling with vehicles and commuters. 

If you ask for recommendations, we suggest hopping on to Dubai Ferry from Marina Mall Station to Bur Dubai Ferry station. Once you get off, wander around the Al Fahidi Area of Bur Dubai, and have something authentic to eat before moving on. We recommend the South Indian Dosa at Infamous Tamilian Restaurant adorning the streets.  After filling your stomach to full, you can take a small walking trip to look at Bastakiya, the heritage area of Dubai. It take your about 20 minutes to walk there from the ferry station, all the way along Al Fahidi Street, just one straight road. 

Main Dubai Ferry Routes

Dubai Marina – Al Ghubaiba
1 hour 55 minutes duration, Dubai Marina Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Al Ghubaiba (near Dubai Creek) are Key Stops.
Best for: Scenic views of Dubai’s coastline.

Dubai Marina – Bluewaters Island (Circular Route)
60 minutes duration, Ain Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) are key Stops. Best for: Tourists & photography lovers

Dubai Water Canal Route
90 minutes duration, Burj Khalifa, Business Bay, Al Jaddaf are key Stops. Best for: Experiencing Dubai’s modern skyline

Al Ghubaiba – Sharjah (Intercity Route)
45 minutes duration, Connects Dubai and Sharjah. Best for: Daily commuters between Emirates

Timings & Schedule
check with the RTA website or call 800 9090 for updated timings.

Where to Buy Tickets

• Ferry terminal ticket counters (cash, card, and Nol card accepted)
• RTA website & app (Book in advance to secure your seat!)
• Nol card payment (Ensure it has sufficient balance before boarding)

In most Dubai Ferry terminals, there is just one single window kiosk selling tickets . Due to this, ticket lines can take up to 30 minutes during peak hours. Moreover, quite a few people take a while to decide the route and finalize on which ticket they want, amounting to more waiting in lines. Hence, buying your Dubai Ferry tickets online is highly recommended, in order to save yourself the trouble of standing in queues under the scorching sun.

Ready to experience Dubai from the water? Book your Dubai Ferry tickets today via RTA’s official website or visit your nearest ferry terminal!