Living in Dubai Without a Car: Is It Possible in 2025?

Sunday, 11 May 2025

Dubai is known for its futuristic skyline, sprawling highways, and a lifestyle that often seems built around owning a car. But as the city evolves, so does its infrastructure — and with a robust public transport system, pedestrian-friendly developments, and an increasing focus on sustainability, living in Dubai without a car in 2025 isn’t just possible — it’s becoming more practical than ever.

Dubai’s Evolving Mobility Landscape

Historically, Dubai’s urban planning revolved around cars. This focus led to widespread traffic congestion, with many professionals reportedly spending close to two hours commuting each day. In response, Dubai’s government has rolled out major transport reforms aimed at reducing car dependency. The Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy targets 25% of all trips being handled by driverless vehicles by 2030. Meanwhile, projects like the 40-mile-long “Green Spine,” featuring autonomous trams, walking lanes, and bike paths, are reshaping urban mobility.

Table of Contents

• Getting Around: Public Transport in Dubai
• Metro System
• Public Buses
• Trams & Monorails
• Marine Transport
• Frequently asked questions

Getting Around: Public Transport in Dubai

Dubai has built an efficient, modern, and integrated public transportation system. Here’s a breakdown of the key options available to residents and tourists alike:

Metro System

The Dubai Metro is a fully automated, driverless rail network that serves as the city’s public transit backbone.

1. Red Line:

The Red Line is the longest and busiest route in the Dubai Metro network. It stretches from Centrepoint Station (formerly Rashidiya) in the northeast to UAE Exchange Station in Jebel Ali, running parallel to Sheikh Zayed Road—the city’s main highway.

Main Stops: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, DIFC, Business Bay, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Internet City, Ibn Battuta, and Expo City Dubai.

2. Green Line:

The Green Line complements the Red Line by covering older parts of Dubai, running from Etisalat by e& Station in Al Qusais to Creek Station in Al Jaddaf.

Main Stops: Al Qiyadah, Salah Al Din, Union, Al Fahidi, Al Ghubaiba, Oud Metha, Dubai Healthcare City.

3. Blue line(under construction)

The Dubai Metro Blue Line is a major expansion project currently under construction and expected to open by 2029. It is being developed to support the growing population along Dubai’s eastern and inland corridors.

Route: Will connect key areas such as Mirdif, Warqa, Ras Al Khor, and Dubai Creek Harbour, linking with existing lines at strategic points like Centrepoint, Union, and BurJuman.

Metro stations operate from 5 AM to midnight, with extended weekend hours. Trains are air-conditioned, Wi-Fi enabled, and accessible for individuals with disabilities.

Public Buses

With over 1,500 buses operating on 119 routes—including metro feeder and intercity services—the bus system reaches 87% of the city. Air-conditioned buses and shelters offer comfort, and routes are well connected with metro and tram stations.

Popular Routes

• Route F55: Feeder bus from Expo City Metro Station to Al Maktoum International Airport
• Route 8: Connects Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Ibn Battuta Mall via Jumeirah Road
• Route X28: Express bus from Dubai Internet City to Gold Souk
• Route E101: Intercity service between Ibn Battuta and Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station

Trams & Monorails

While the Dubai Metro serves as the city’s primary high-speed transit backbone, the Dubai Tram and Palm Monorail complement it by offering convenient travel across key leisure and residential zones. These systems are ideal for tourists and residents looking to explore Dubai’s vibrant coastal neighbourhoods without a car.

Dubai Tram: Linking the Marina to Palm Jumeirah

The Dubai Tram operates along Al Sufouh Road and was the first tram system outside Europe to run on a ground-based power supply (no overhead wires).

Route and Stations

• Stations: 11 stations from Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) to Al Sufouh
• Key Stops:
  • Dubai Marina Mall
  • Jumeirah Beach Residence 1 & 2
  • Palm Jumeirah (connects to Monorail)
  • Knowledge Village
  • Dubai Media City

Features

• Fully air-conditioned and modern
• Dedicated cabin for women and children
• Integrated with Nol card payment system
• Ideal for short city commutes, beach access, and leisure travel

Palm Monorail: Exploring Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Monorail is a scenic light rail line that runs the length of Palm Jumeirah, Dubai’s iconic man-made island.

Route and Stations

• Stations:
  1. Palm Gateway (Mainland Entry Point)
  2. Al Ittihad Park
  3. Nakheel Mall
  4. Atlantis Aquaventure (Final Stop)

Metro & Monorail Connectivity

• DAMAC Properties Station and Jumeirah Lakes Towers Station connect the Tram to the Red Line of Dubai Metro.
• The Palm Jumeirah Tram Station links to the Palm Monorail via a short walk.

Marine Transport

For a unique view of the city, Dubai’s water transport system offers:

• Abras: Traditional boats crossing Dubai Creek.
• Water Taxis & Buses: Linking key destinations like Marina, JBR, and Dubai Canal.
• Dubai Ferry: Longer, scenic routes connecting major waterfront destinations.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing

• RTA Taxis: Government-regulated and metered, these cream-colored cabs are easy to hail across the city.
• Uber & Careem: Widely available, offering different vehicle types for various budgets and needs.

In 2025, living in Dubai without a car is not just possible — it’s increasingly convenient thanks to smarter transport systems, growing walkable zones, and tech-powered services. While having a car may still be useful for some, you can definitely enjoy a full, active lifestyle in Dubai without one — and save money while you’re at it.