See Dubai Differently: Your Guide to the Scenic Ferry Ride
April 29, 2025
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Thinking about exploring Dubai from a different angle? Forget the traffic for a bit and imagine gliding across the water, taking in those iconic skyline views. The Dubai Ferry offers exactly that – a unique blend of public transport and sightseeing adventure, managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
[1]
[7]
[13]. It’s a fantastic way to see landmarks like the Burj Al Arab or Palm Jumeirah from the water, connecting key spots like Dubai Marina, Al Ghubaiba, the Water Canal, and even Sharjah[1]
[3]
[5]
[6][7]
[8][13]. This guide is your go-to resource for figuring out the Dubai Ferry timings, fares, different classes, and how to snag your tickets for a smooth journey in 2025[1]
[2][5]
[10]. Let's get you ready for a scenic trip on Dubai's waters with the RTA ferry Dubai[1][7].
Understanding the Dubai Ferry Service
So, what exactly is the Dubai Ferry? Launched back in 2011 by the RTA, it was designed to boost water travel options and give people more ways to get around the city[6][10][13]
[31]. It quickly became popular with both commuters looking to skip road jams and tourists eager for those picture-perfect coastal views[1][3][5][7][8][13]. Honestly, seeing the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, and the Marina skyline from the ferry is quite special[1][3][5][6][7][8][13]. It’s a calmer, often quicker way to travel between places like Dubai Marina and Al Ghubaiba[1][5][6][13].
The service offers different types of trips. You can take a straightforward point-to-point journey, much like a bus or metro, or opt for a circular sightseeing tour designed purely for soaking up the views, usually lasting about an hour[2][6][7][8][13]. The ferries themselves are pretty sleek, typically holding around 100 passengers[3][5][10]
[11][13][31]. You can even charter one privately if you fancy[8][31]! Just keep in mind, some of those dedicated tourist loops might need a minimum number of people onboard (like 10 or 12) to set sail, though the regular commuter routes run regardless[3][5][8]
[19][31].
Dubai Ferry Routes & Stations: Where Can You Go?
Wondering where the Dubai Ferry can take you? It connects several key marine transport stations across the city and even reaches into Sharjah[1][5][10]. The main hubs you'll likely use include Al Ghubaiba (great for Old Dubai and the Creek), Dubai Marina Mall (right by the mall, naturally), Dubai Canal Station (for those canal and Burj Khalifa views), Bluewaters (home to Ain Dubai), Sharjah Aquarium Station (for the inter-emirate trip), and Souk Al Marfa on Deira Islands[1][2][3]
[4][5][6]
[9][10]
[16]
[22].
Now, services can change – stations like Al Mamzar aren't used anymore, and some Canal routes might use Water Taxis instead[4][6]
[24]
[21][31]. So, it's always smart to check the official RTA maps or app for the absolute latest station list before you head out
[28]. Here’s a look at the main routes based on current info:
•
FR1 (Al Ghubaiba ↔ Dubai Canal ↔ Dubai Marina Mall): This is a big one for both commuters and sightseers, linking Old Dubai to the Marina via the Canal[2][7]
[25]. The full trip takes roughly 1 hour 40 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes and passes major sights like Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab[1][2][3][4][5][7]. Sometimes you'll see FR1 just referring to the Al Ghubaiba-Canal part
[30]
[23][25].
•
FR4 (Dubai Marina Mall Sightseeing): A very popular hour-long circular trip starting from the Marina[2][7][13][30][23][25]. You'll cruise along the Marina, head out towards Palm Jumeirah for views of Atlantis and Ain Dubai, and then loop back[1][2][3][5][6][7][13]. This might also require minimum passengers[3][7].
Dubai Ferry Timings: Planning Your Trip
Okay, let's talk schedules. The Dubai Ferry runs seven days a week, but the timings can really vary depending on the route and whether it's a weekday or weekend (especially for the FR5 Sharjah route)[1][4][9]
[29]. Things can also change, so here’s the crucial bit: Always, always double-check the latest Dubai Ferry schedule directly with the RTA before your trip. You can use their website, the S'hail app, or call their helpline at 800 9090[1][2][3][4][5][7][9][10][29]
[20]. Plan to get to the station about 15 to 30 minutes before your ferry is due to leave[3][5][9][13][25][29].
Just to give you an idea, here are some example timings based on recent information (but please verify!):
Dubai Ferry Fares & Classes: Costs and Comfort
First, the classes:
Now for the Dubai Ferry price (these are examples and subject to change, so check with RTA):
What about discounts?
•
There might also be a 50% discount for children aged 2-10 on round trips[25].
Booking & Paying for Your Dubai Ferry Trip
Getting your Dubai Ferry tickets is straightforward. You can buy them directly at the ticket offices located at the marine transport stations[3][5][9][10][21][24][29]. Wondering how to pay? They usually accept cash, credit/debit cards, and, importantly, Dubai's Nol Card[1][9][21][24][25][29]. If you're using your Nol card (like the Silver Card which costs AED 25 but comes with AED 19 credit), just make sure you have enough balance loaded onto it to cover the fare[1][21][24]
[26]. Using the Nol card is super convenient, especially if you're already using it for the Metro or buses[1][21][24].
Onboard Experience & Final Tips
What's it like once you're on the ferry? Well, comfort is key. The vessels are fully air-conditioned, which is a blessing in the Dubai heat[3][5][7][11][19]
[27]. There's usually a small kiosk onboard where you can grab snacks and drinks[3][5][6][10][11][16][31]. You'll also find clean restrooms for men and women, including accessible facilities for people of determination[3][7][10][11][16][19][27]. Look out for the LCD screens too; they often show entertainment or interesting facts about the landmarks you're passing[6][10][11][16][19][27].
So, why choose the ferry? It offers incredible views you just can't get from the road, it's comfortable, and it's a genuinely pleasant alternative to sitting in traffic[1][3][6][7][8]. Just one last reminder: ferry timings and fares can change[1][2][3][4][5]. Always give the official RTA sources a quick check before you set off to ensure you have the most current information for your trip[1][2][3][4][5][7][9][20][29]. Enjoy the ride!
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