Glide Through Dubai: Your Guide to the Scenic Dubai Ferry
April 29, 2025
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Ever wondered what Dubai looks like from the water? Forget the traffic for a moment and imagine gliding along the coast, the city's stunning skyline unfolding before you. That's the magic the Dubai Ferry offers 
[1]
[7]
[13]. As a key part of the RTA's marine transport network, this service isn't just about getting from A to B; it's an experience in itself [1]
[3]
[5][7]
[8][13]. Whether you're a resident looking for a smarter commute or a visitor eager for breathtaking views, the ferry delivers [1][3]
[6]. This guide covers everything you need to know – routes, stations, fares, and those all-important sights – to make the most of your journey on the water [1][7][13].
What is the Dubai Ferry Experience?
Launched back in 2011, the Dubai Ferry was introduced by the RTA to boost water transit options and give people more ways to get around the city [6]
[10][13]
[31]. Think sleek, modern boats – typically 32 meters long, holding up to 100 passengers – designed for comfort and style [3][5][10]
[11][13][31]. The real draw? The incredible scenic views and the chance to bypass road congestion, connecting key spots like Dubai Marina, Al Ghubaiba, and the Dubai Water Canal smoothly [1][5][6][13]. It’s a refreshingly tranquil way to travel, offering a unique perspective on landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah [1][3][5][6][7][8][13]. You can hop on for a direct commute or opt for a circular sightseeing tour, though keep in mind some tours need a minimum number of passengers to set sail 
[2][6][7][8][13]
[19]. Fancy having the boat to yourself? Private charters are also an option [8][31].
Onboard Comfort: Facilities & Seating Classes
Stepping aboard a Dubai Ferry, you'll find it's designed for a pleasant journey [3][5][7][11]
[27]. First off, it's fully air-conditioned – a welcome relief from the Dubai heat [3][5][7][11][19][27]. Feeling peckish? There's an onboard kiosk selling snacks, drinks, and even souvenirs [3][5][6][10][11]
[16][31]. Clean restrooms are available for men, women, and people of determination [3][7][10][11][16][19][27]. Plus, LCD screens provide entertainment and interesting facts about the landmarks you pass, along with safety information [6][10][11]
[12]
[15][16]
[18][19][27].
You get to choose your comfort level with two seating classes [1][2][6][11][13]
[24]
[21]. Silver Class is the standard option, seating around 84 passengers, and crucially, it gives you access to the open-air viewing deck at the back – perfect for photos [2][6][11][24][21]. For a bit more luxury, Gold Class offers 14 premium, spacious seats at the front of the ferry, providing enhanced views through the windows [1][2][6][10][11][31][24][21]. Gold ticket holders can also use the Silver Class deck [24][21]. Accessibility is well-considered too; each ferry usually has dedicated space for two wheelchairs and accessible restrooms [2][8][10][11][12]
[14][15][16]
[17][18][19][24][27]. Stations are user-friendly, and people of determination with the right Nol card often travel free [3][7]
[9][12][14][15][18]
[29]
[25]. Safety is paramount, with the RTA ensuring high standards across the service [1][12][15][18].
Where Can You Go? Dubai Ferry Routes & Stations
So, where can the Dubai Ferry take you? It connects several key marine transport stations across Dubai and even reaches into Sharjah [1][5][10]. The main hubs you'll likely use are Al Ghubaiba (in Old Dubai, near the Creek), Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Canal, Bluewaters (home of Ain Dubai), Sharjah Aquarium, and Souk Al Marfa [2][3]
[4][5][6][9][10][16]
[22]. Some other stations might pop up in searches, but they could be served by different RTA services like the Water Taxi, or might no longer be active (like Al Mamzar) [2][4][6][11][31][24][21]. Always best to check the official RTA network map or app for the absolute latest station info 
[28].
Let's look at the key routes, designated with 'FR':
•
FR1 (Al Ghubaiba ↔ Dubai Marina Mall via Canal): This is a big one for both commuters and sightseers, linking Old Dubai to the Marina [2][7][25]. The journey takes roughly 1 hour 40 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes and offers spectacular views of Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, Burj Al Arab, and more [1][2][3][4][5][7].
•
FR4 (Dubai Marina Mall Sightseeing): Hugely popular, this one-hour circular tour starts at Dubai Marina Mall [2][7][13]
[30]
[23][25]. You'll cruise along the Marina, head towards Palm Jumeirah for views of Atlantis and Ain Dubai, and soak in that iconic skyline [1][2][3][5][6][7][13]. Again, minimum passenger numbers might apply [3][7].
•
FR5 (Al Ghubaiba ↔ Sharjah Aquarium): This inter-emirate route is a game-changer for commuters, connecting Dubai and Sharjah by water in about 35 minutes [1][3][4][5][9][13][16]
[20][29][30][23][25]. It offers a stress-free alternative to road traffic and views of the Deira Corniche [1][4][9][16][29].
Planning Your Journey: Timings & Fares
Alright, let's talk logistics: when do the ferries run and how much does it cost? The service operates daily, but timings vary quite a bit depending on the route and whether it's a weekday or weekend (especially for the Sharjah FR5 route) [1][4][9][29]. Schedules can change, so always double-check the latest timings with the RTA via their website, app, or helpline (800 9090) just before you travel [1][2][3][4][5][9][10][29]. Plan to arrive at the station a good 15-30 minutes before your ferry is due to depart [3][5][9][13][29][25].
Just as examples (and remember, these can change!), FR1 (Al Ghubaiba-Marina) often runs around 1 PM and 6 PM/6:30 PM [1][2][5][6][13]. The FR4 Marina tour might depart around 11:30 AM and 4:30 PM/5:00 PM [1][2][5][6][13]. The FR5 Dubai-Sharjah route has distinct weekday (Mon-Thu) and weekend (Fri-Sun) schedules, often starting earlier on weekdays for commuters [9][29][20]. Also, keep in mind there's usually a pause in service during Friday prayer times (around 1 PM - 2 PM) [9][29].
Fares depend on your route and whether you choose Silver or Gold Class [1][2][5][10][24][21]. You can buy tickets at the station counters using cash, credit/debit cards, or your Nol Card (make sure it has enough credit!) [1][3][5][9][10][29][24][25][21]. Booking online via the RTA website is another option [9][29][24][25][21]. A Nol Silver card itself costs AED 25 and comes with AED 19 usable credit 
[26].
Here are some sample one-way fares (again, check RTA for current prices):
Good news on discounts: children under 5 usually travel free [2][3][6][9][16][29][24][25][21]. People of Determination often get free travel too, likely with their personalized Nol card [3][9][12][15][16][17][18][29][25]. Look out for family packages on tourist routes (like 2 adults + 2 kids for AED 140 Silver / AED 210 Gold) and potential 50% discounts for kids aged 2-10 on round trips [1][3][5][7][11][16][24][25][21].
Which Dubai Ferry Route is Best for You?
With several routes available, which one suits your needs? Let me break it down.
If you're a tourist focused on sightseeing, FR1 (Al Ghubaiba to Marina) gives you the grand tour of the coastline, covering both old and new Dubai landmarks [1][7][8]. For stunning views of the Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Atlantis, the FR4 circular trip from Dubai Marina is perfect [1][7][13]. And for a taste of history, the FR3 Creek tour is a great option [7]. Compared to private boat tours, the ferry offers fantastic value [1][8].
For residents commuting, especially between Sharjah and Dubai, FR5 is a lifesaver, dodging traffic jams for a very reasonable price [1][9][16]. FR1 can also be handy for getting between the Creek/Bur Dubai area and the Marina/JBR [1]. Using a Nol card makes payment seamless across the RTA network [1][24][21].
Essential Tips & Quick FAQs
Ready to ride? Here are a few final pointers and answers to common questions.
Top Tips:
How much is the ferry from Al Ghubaiba to Marina?
Can I buy food/drinks onboard?
Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?
How long is the Dubai Marina sightseeing trip?
Do children travel free?
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