Daily flights link Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. Flights can also be chartered and there are small landing fields throughout the United Arab Emirates.
Well lit, tarmac roads connect all emirates. Dubai is notorious for traffic and dangerous driving, but things can slow to a crawl during peak hour in some congested parts of the city. Most roads are well maintained, with one long highway known as Sheikh Zayed Road connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
There are good tarmac roads running along the west coast between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah; between Sharjah and Dhaid; and linking Dubai with other northern states and the interior. Roads are clearly signposted in Arabic and English.
Most international car hire companies have offices at airports, hotels and malls. A passport, credit card and either a valid international or national licence are necessary for tourists.
Taxis are a quick and convenient method of travel within the UAE, as they are available everywhere with metered fares. Make sure you carry smaller notes – anything over Dhs50 note will inspire grumbling. Pink taxis are driven by women for women passengers; these can be booked by calling the taxi hotlines or can be requested at the airport. Taxis are scarce around 1700. This is when the taxi drivers change shift and deliver their cars back to the depot.
Coach services in the UAE are of the luxury variety and many come with mini bars, massage chairs and TVs. Etihad offers an express service between Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain. This is a free service for Etihad customers. There are also a number of bus companies offering a hop on hop off sightseeing trip around Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Big Bus Tours (www.bigbustours.com/eng/dubai) cost US$55 per person for a 24-hour ticket.
The speed limit in built-up areas is 60 to 80kph (37 to 50mph) and 100 to 120kph (62 to 74mph) elsewhere – however don’t be surprised when other drivers seem to ignore this. Speeding fines of up to AED600 can be imposed.
An International Driving Permit is recommended, although it is not legally required. A valid national driving licence from UK, Australia and USA is acceptable.
Abra boats trips across the creek from the Deira Old Souk and Sabkha Abra Station at Dubai Old Souk Abra Station cost AED1 per passenger. The Dubai Ferry runs between Al Ghubaib and Dubai Marina. Fares start from AED50. In Abu Dhabi there is a ferry service from Jebel Al Dhanna port to Delma Island, which runs six times a day and costs AED25. There are also a number of private boat journeys from Abu Dhabi to various islands.
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