Dubai airport to city centre: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Ideal for: FamiliesCouplesSoloSeniorsOn a budget
Contents
In short: The Red Line metro serves Terminals 1 and 3 of Dubai International Airport directly and runs to Downtown and the Marina. Taxis are plentiful and practical, and a booked transfer drops you at your hotel. Some flights use Al Maktoum (Dubai World Central), further out.
Your options
Metro (Red Line)
The Red Line links Terminals 1 and 3 to Downtown, the Marina and Jebel Ali. Pay with the rechargeable Nol card. Terminal 2 isn’t on the line: take a taxi or shuttle.
Taxi
Taxis wait outside the terminals and run on the meter: simple and quick for most hotels.
Al Maktoum (Dubai World Central)
This second airport, to the south, is further from the centre: plan a taxi or transfer, and check which airport you land at.
Booked transfer
A driver meets you on arrival: handy with kids, at night or to reach a beach hotel.
Our tips
- Check your arrival airport and terminal: some cities have several, far apart.
- Plan the journey before you leave: offline route, hotel address in local script if needed.
- Have data from touchdown (eSIM or a suitable plan) to follow your route or call a ride.
- Late arrival, kids or big bags: a booked transfer avoids waiting and haggling.
- Beware of unofficial drivers approaching travellers in the arrivals hall.
What next?
To choose your area, see Where to stay in Dubai; for sightseeing, Things to do in Dubai. All our tips for the country: Travel in Dubai.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dubai's metro go to the airport?
Yes: the Red Line serves Terminals 1 and 3 of the international airport and runs to Downtown and the Marina.
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
French nationals can enter visa-free for tourism; check the current rules for your nationality before you go.
How do I pay for the metro?
With the rechargeable Nol card, sold at station machines.