Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For longer rentals, prebooked and prepaid packages, arranged in your home country,
may work out cheaper than on-the-spot-rentals. Check for deals with the online travel
If you plan on taking the car to Oman, bring written permission from the car rental
company in case you're asked for it at the border. You'll also need car insurance that's
valid in Oman. Omani insurance is available at most border crossings.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are the only emirates with public bus services. Dubai also
has the high-tech Dubai Metro, which links some of the major attractions and malls and is
an inexpensive, efficient way to get across town. See the Getting Around sections in this
chapter for details.
TAXIS
Taxis are cheap, metered and ubiquitious and - given the dearth of public transportation in
some emirates - often the only way of getting around.
Most drivers can also be hired by the hour. In that case, rates should be negotiated un-
less fixed fees are set in place. In Dubai, for instance, the fee for six hours is Dh300, for
12 hours it's Dh500.
Most cabs can also be engaged for long-distance travel to other emirates, in which case
you should negotiate the fee at the beginning of the trip.
Few drivers are fluent English speakers and many are more familiar with landmarks
than streets names. It helps if you mention parks, shopping malls or hotel names when
giving directions for your desired destination. Tip about 10% for good service.
Shared Taxis
For inter-emirate travel, shared taxis are an alternative for some travellers. Although fares
tend to be similar, they leave when full, which may be more frequently than scheduled bus
service. They do get cramped, so people in need of much personal space will likely not
feel so comfortable. Women solo travellers may feel especially uncomfortable. You can
get these taxis engaged (ie privately, not shared) if you are willing to pay for all of the
seats.
TOURS
The following companies are all well established and licensed by the Department of Tour-
ism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM). They offer a wide choice of tours, ranging from
city excursions of Dubai, Al Ain and Abu Dhabi to more active trips, such as trekking in
the Hajar Mountains or overnight desert safaris. Check the websites for details and prices.
