The modern Al Maktoum International airport (DWC) is the second airport of Dubai, located 52km southwest of the city centre. The airport is a major hub for smaller airlines and serves as a relief valve to Dubai International Airport (DXB). The fastest and most common method of transportation from the airport to downtown Dubai is by taking a Dubai Al Maktoum airport taxi. Alternatively, travellers can use F55 bus from the airport heading to Ibn Battuta Metro Station, in order to take a green line connection to Dubai Mall (city centre). Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Dubai at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.
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Getting from Al Maktoum Airport to City
Nadia AnagnostopoulouApril 22, 2021
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20 minute gap between transfers
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Regular Car Sanitisation
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Contactless ride
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Sanitiser in every car
Comparison of the options
| OPTION | PRICE | DURATION | AVAILABILITY | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | €37 | 40min | 24/7 | |
| Welcome Pickups | €46 | 40min | 24/7 | Book |
| Book | ||||
| Bus | €4 | 60min | 24/7 | |
How to get from Al Maktoum airport to city centre by taxi
Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) offers similar private taxi services as the main Dubai airport (DBX). All taxi companies are government controlled, with cream coloured vehicles and metered fares per kilometre. The trip to Dubai lasts around 40 minutes under regular traffic. During the day, a one-way trip costs €37 and should not exceed €40, whilst a night trip should cost €50.
Taxi fare from Al Maktoum airport to city centre
All taxi operators must follow the government pricing system which includes a €7 initial airport fee, a €0.45/km distance fee and a €0.15/min waiting fee. As a result, regular trips to the downtown district of Dubai cost between €37 (160 AED) and 50€ (215 AED) at most during the night.
Convenience
Despite Dubai's expensive and lavish reputation, taxi prices in the city and UAE are quite affordable in comparison to European and American cities. Looking at the taxi service market, a trip from Al Maktoum airport to Dubai would cost less than €10 per person for a group of four. Furthermore, taxi companies in Dubai operate relatively new and modern cars.
Editor’s Note
In all fairness, taxis and private transfers are the most convenient and easiest means of transportation from Al Maktoum airport to Dubai.
Useful Tips
How to get from Al Maktoum airport to city centre (Burj Khalifa) by bus
Unfortunately, Al Maktoum airport offers no direct public transportation to the heart of Dubai. Instead, people travelling to Dubai must take the provided airport bus (F55) to Ibn Battuta Metro Station and then get the green metro line to Burj Khalifa station. The total travel price for both transits will sum up to €2 (8.40 AED) and the journey will last around 60 minutes, excluding the waiting time at the metro station.
How much is the bus from Al Maktoum airport to the city centre?
Tickets can only be purchased through the red or silver NOL top up passes. Prices will vary depending on the number of regions you pass through. Consequently both the bus to Ibn Battuta Metro Station and the green metro line to Burj Khalifa station cost €1 (4.20 AED) each.
Cost
€2
Trip Duration
60 min
The waiting time for both the F55 and the F55A night bus is about 1 hour.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The F55 bus line is available 24/7.
Where do I get it from?
The bus stop for the F55 and F55A night bus is located outside the arrivals hall. The airport staff and signage can help direct you to the bus stop.
Convenience
The F55 and the F55A night buses are the only means of public transportation to the city centre of Dubai. They only offer a connection to the Ibn Battuta Metro Station, and this, once every hour. In other words, travellers on a tight schedule should not consider this method of transportation since it's neither efficient nor frequent. However, it is important to note that the connection is available 24/7 which can be very helpful in certain situations.
Editor’s Note
Similar to Dubai airport, public transportation at Al Maktoum does not follow a set timetable, just a few trips within certain time periods, so waiting times can be long.
Useful Tips
Welcome Pickups transfer
Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line
If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Dubai. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.
Read morePrices
DAYTIME
€46NIGHTTIME
€46 Same price as a regular taxi from the line
PRICES FOR
Sedan Car
4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest month to travel to Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. Weather-wise, Dubai really only experiences two seasons: hot and hotter. During the winter months, the city sees blue skies and primo beach weather. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect plenty of company on Jumeirah Beach.
What is the closest metro station to Al Maktoum airport?
The nearest metro station is located at Ibn Battuta Mall which can be reached via bus or taxi.
What medical facilities are available and where can I find them?
If you have unfortunately fallen ill while at the airport, please don’t worry. There are world-class medical facilities and response teams on hand 24/7 to assist you.
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