Dubai Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) is located 40 km from the bustling city center of Dubai. There are three different modes of transport to take you from Al Maktoum Airport to the city: a taxi, a combination of bus and metro, or an Al Maktoum Airport transfer.
The quickest and most convenient option is to take an Al Maktoum Airport taxi or private transfer. These two transport options will get you to the very door of your accommodation in just 40 minutes.
The most affordable option is to take the Al Maktoum Airport to city bus. However, this transfer option isn’t direct. You’ll need to make a change from the F55 bus to the Red Line metro partway through your journey. Due to the changes, this mode of transport is a little stressful and very slow.
There is also a direct night bus available for those arriving in the early hours of the morning.
To find out more details, read on!
4 ways to get from Al Maktoum International Airport to Dubai
Useful if you're landing at night or in the early hours of the morning.
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How to get from Al Maktoum Airport to city center by taxi
Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) offers similar taxi services as the main Dubai Airport (DXB). All taxi companies are government-controlled, with cream-colored vehicles and metered fares.
DWC taxis are available 24 hours a day from the designated taxi rank, and taking an Al Maktoum Airport taxi to the city of Dubai will take around 40 minutes in light traffic.
Taxi cost from Al Maktoum Airport to downtown
All Dubai taxi operators must follow the government pricing system, which includes a €6 (AED 25) initial airport surcharge and a price per km of €0.53 (AED 2.19). Your final fare depends on your exact destination in Dubai and the levels of traffic on the day.
As a result, the Al Maktoum Airport to the city center taxi fare typically costs between €37 (AED 150) and €50 (AED 200).
*Extra charges for the number of passengers, tolls (salik), and excess luggage may be added to this cost.
Where do I get a taxi from?
At present, Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) only has one passenger terminal. You’ll find a designated taxi rank right outside the main terminal building. Simply follow the signs, exit the terminal, and join the taxi waiting line.
*As there is only one terminal at Al Maktoum Airport, there can sometimes be very long queues for a local taxi.
Convenience
Taking a taxi from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center is the quickest and most convenient way to travel. Your driver will drop you off directly at the door of your accommodation in Dubai and taxis are available no matter what time you land, day or night.
However, as DWC Airport only has one terminal, you may find yourself standing in the hot sun, queuing for a taxi during peak travel times.
Useful Tips
To avoid the long queues at the Al Maktoum Airport taxi rank, you can pre-book your transfers with a private company.
Ensure the taximeter is set to the airport starting fare before setting off.
Most Al Maktoum Airport taxi drivers accept card payments, but it's best to check. Generally, it's wise to bring cash in AED to pay for your ride.
Remember that a taximeter is the only legal pricing system, any driver charging otherwise is doing so illegally.
Try not to accept rides from drivers inside the airport offering fixed fares, these taxis are usually unlicensed and unregulated.
Taxis in Dubai can fit up to 4 passengers and 3 pieces of medium sized luggage as standard.
How to get from Al Maktoum Airport to city center by bus
There’s no direct public transportation from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center. You must take a combination of RTA services: the F55 bus and the metro network.
First, you’ll take the F55 bus from outside the passenger terminal to the “Expo 2020 Metro Station 2”, which takes approximately 50 minutes. You can then hop on the Red Line metro to the “Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro station” in around 45 minutes.
The total journey time is about 1 hour and 35 minutes, not including wait times.
Once you’re at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, you can use the Red metro line to explore more of Dubai, including the World Trade Center, Emirates Tower, and Dubai Mall.
Depending on where you’re staying, you may want to use the Green Line. To connect to this line, you must get off the Red Line at “Union Metro Station”, a few stops further than the Burj Khalifa station. We recommend checking the best option on the official RTA website or Google Maps.
How much is the Al Maktoum Airport to the city center bus?
To ride both the bus and the Al Maktoum Airport to city center metro, you must purchase a NOL pass. The best option for travelers is the Red NOL pass, which costs €0.50 (AED 2). It’s a paper-based ticket that can be topped up with 10 single trips or 5 daily passes and is valid for 90 days.
The cost of a single ride on the F55 bus is €1.50 (AED 6). The metro ticket price depends on how many zones you pass through, so your ticket should cost €1.50 (AED 6), the price of two zones. The total cost will be approximately €3 (AED 12) for taking public transport into Dubai.
*You can purchase and top up your NOL pass inside the airport or metro stations from the RTA automatic ticket machines.
Cost
€3
Trip Duration
1 H 35 Min
The waiting time for both the F55 Bus is 1 hour. The wait time for the Green or Red Line metro is 4-7 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The F55 bus runs from 06:31 to 22:31. The Dubai Metro runs from 05:00 to midnight on Monday through Thursday and Saturday, extends to 01:00 on Fridays, and begins at 08:00 on Sundays, operating until 00:00.
Where do I get the bus from?
The official bus stop for the F55 bus is located just outside of the passenger terminal. There are clear signs leading from the baggage claim to the bus stops. Plus, airport staff will be there to lend a hand if needed. The buses are red, making them easily identifiable.
Convenience
If you’re on a tight budget, taking public transport from Al Maktoum Airport to Dubai city is possible. However, as you will have to make multiple changes, carry your luggage through bus and train stations, and then find yet another mode of transport to your hotel once you reach the Burj Khalifa station, it’s very inconvenient.
Timetables
RTA Journey Planner
Stops, Routes and Prices for all Dubai public transport
Useful Tips
As the F55 bus leaves only every 60 minutes, there can be very long queues for the bus. This may result in you not getting a seat and having to wait for the next service.
Purchasing the Red NOL card is the best option when taking multiple modes of transport. If you're staying in Dubai for a while, you may want to consider purchasing the Silver NOL pass.
There are kiosks in the airport where you can purchase a NOL pass before getting on the bus.
NOL passes can be used on the metro, buses and water taxis in Dubai.
Luggage storage on the F55 bus is very limited, but the Red Line metro has dedicated luggage racks.
Children under the age of 5 can use the public transport free of charge.
How to get from Al Maktoum Airport to the city by bus
During the day, you can take the F55 bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center, but this service stops at 22:31 and becomes the N55 night bus. Unlike its daytime counterpart, the N55 night bus runs directly into the city center of Dubai, stopping at “Wasl, Emirates Bank 2”, which is 2 km from the Burj Khalifa.
The total journey time on the bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
How much is the bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center?
To ride the RTA bus, you need the NOL Red pass so that you can top it up with a single fare ticket, as the red pass only allows you to use one mode of transport at a time. The cost of a Red NOL pass is €0.50 (AED 2) and a single ticket for the N55 Bus from Dubai DWC Airport to the city center is €1.50 (AED 6).
*You can purchase your NOL pass inside the airport or metro stations from the RTA automatic ticket machines.
Cost
€1.50
Trip Duration
1 H 40 Min
There's an average wait time of 60 minutes for the night bus.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The N55 night bus runs from 22:31 until 06:31.
Where do I find the bus?
You will find the stop for the N55 night bus just outside the passenger terminal. The bus stop is signposted from the baggage claim area, and there are members of staff available to point you in the right direction. Once you reach your final stop, you will need to hop in a taxi or walk to your final destination, as the metro doesn’t operate at night.
Convenience
The best thing about the N55 night bus is that it runs during the early hours of the morning, allowing you to take one of the RTA buses 24/7. However, due to longer waiting and journey times, taking the bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center is the least convenient way to travel. Plus, you still need to find your way from the bus stop in the center to your accommodation.
Timetables
RTA Journey Planner
N55 Route and Stops
Useful Tips
If you're short on time or wish to get to your hotel as quickly as possible, we suggest taking a taxi or private transfer from Al Maktoum Airport to the city.
The maximum journey time you can spend on the RTA transport is 180 minutes per day.
Children under the age of 5 can travel on the metro and bus for free.
Luggage storage is limited, be sure to travel light if taking the bus.
How to get a private transfer from Al Maktoum Airport to city
Taking an Al Maktoum Airport transfer to the city is the best way to travel. Instead of waiting at the taxi rank in the hot Dubai sun, you can walk straight to your air-conditioned, private car and zip off directly to your accommodation in the city.
Taking a private transfer with a company such as Welcome Pickups has been voted the most convenient and relaxing way to start your vacation. We put your comfort at the top of our list, by offering exciting travel extras and plenty of perks:
Meet and greets
Trained English-speaking drivers
Flight monitoring
Guaranteed fixed fares
24/7 customer support
Choosing a private transfer allows you to plan and pay everything in advance, so when you land in Dubai, you have absolutely no worries or stress. Welcome Pickups drivers are also local experts, so your driver will offer a mini tour on the way to your hotel, so you can learn more about the area and places of interest to you.
What's the cost of a private transfer from Al Maktoum Airport to the city?
One of the most comforting things about booking your transfer in advance is that you will receive a fixed, all-inclusive cost. You won’t need to watch the taximeter climb higher or worry about having enough cash to pay your driver.
A private transfer from Al Maktoum Airport to the city of Dubai in a standard 3-seater vehicle will cost €46 (AED 193). For families or groups of up to 7, you can expect to pay €78 (AED 326) and for larger groups of up to 12, prices start from €138 (AED 577)
Booking your private transfer with Welcome Pickups has never been easier. You can book your rides online or through our app in a matter of minutes by entering your flight number, the number of passengers and your pickup time. Once you have your quote, no surcharges, waiting times or extras will ever be added.
Cost
€46
Trip Duration
40 Min
*Pre-booking your private transfer from Dubai World Central to the city will guarantee a seamless ride.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfers are available 24/7 from DWC.
Where do I find my private transfer?
As soon as you exit the baggage claim hall, you will see your friendly driver waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall. To ensure you know exactly who to look for, they will be holding a sign with your name printed on it. After a warm greeting, your English-speaking driver will then lend a hand with your luggage and will lead you and your party to your pre-selected vehicle.
Convenience
Although taking a taxi is a good transfer option, booking a private transfer offers much more comfort and reliability. With a private transfer, you also get so much more value for your money.
There will be no need to wait in the sun for your ride or watch the taximeter climb higher. Instead, you are guaranteed on-time pickups, English-speaking drivers, all-inclusive pricing and a 5-star service every time. Using a private transfer will take all of the stress out of arriving in a new city, allowing you to start your time in Dubai the right way.
Useful Tips
To give yourself enough time to pass through customs, we recommend booking your pickup around 30 minutes after your landing time, though you won't be charged extra if they have to wait.
Sedan vehicles can handle up to 3 passengers, while minivans can take up to 7 people in comfort, and our minibusses can fit up to 12..
24 hours before you fly, you will receive an email containing your driver's name, photo and phone number, so you know exactly who you will be meeting on the day of your pickup.
If you need a child seat or a booster seat, you can pre-book these during the booking service or by contacting our customer service team.
Our drivers are available through WhatsApp, if you have any questions or concerns about your pickup.
Dubai Airport private transfers
Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
There are three transport options from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center: taxi, bus, or private transfer. Taking an Al Maktoum Airport taxi or private transfer is the quickest and most convenient transfer option, as they are direct and take just 40 minutes. Otherwise, you can take a combination of a bus and the metro, but this option takes well over an hour.
How much is taxi from Dubai Airport to Center?
There are no fixed fares for taking a taxi from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center. To cover the Al Maktoum Airport distance to the city, you will be charged using a taximeter. The average cost of a taxi into Dubai will be €37 (AED 150) to €50 (AED 200), depending on the traffic levels and your exact destination in the city.
For a fixed rate fare with no hidden costs, you can pre-book your taxi ride with a private company such as Welcome Pickups.
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.
Is there a metro station near Al Maktoum Airport?
Unlike its larger counterpart, Al Maktoum doesn’t have its own metro station. The nearest metro station to Al Maktoum Airport is located at the Ibn Battuta Mall, which can be reached via car or taxi. Or, you can hop on the F55 bus to “Expo 2020 Metro Station 2”.
What bus number for Al Maktoum Airport?
If you’re traveling during the day, you can hop on the F55 bus to “Expo 2020 Metro Station 2” and then on the Red metro line to get further into the center. For those arriving at night, the N55 bus offers a direct service to “Wasl, Emirates Bank 2” near the Burj Khalifa.
Fern Coll
Fern is originally from England, but her love of travel led her to lay roots in Mexico. She’s a business owner and published author with a passion for storytelling. Fern specialises in travel content, helping brands connect with audiences through engaging writing.
Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) offers similar taxi services as the main Dubai Airport (DXB). All taxi companies are government-controlled, with cream-colored vehicles and metered fares.
DWC taxis are available 24 hours a day from the designated taxi rank, and taking an Al Maktoum Airport taxi to the city of Dubai will take around 40 minutes in light traffic.
Taxi cost from Al Maktoum Airport to downtown
All Dubai taxi operators must follow the government pricing system, which includes a €6 (AED 25) initial airport surcharge and a price per km of €0.53 (AED 2.19). Your final fare depends on your exact destination in Dubai and the levels of traffic on the day.
As a result, the Al Maktoum Airport to the city center taxi fare typically costs between €37 (AED 150) and €50 (AED 200).
*Extra charges for the number of passengers, tolls (salik), and excess luggage may be added to this cost.
Where do I get a taxi from?
At present, Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) only has one passenger terminal. You’ll find a designated taxi rank right outside the main terminal building. Simply follow the signs, exit the terminal, and join the taxi waiting line.
*As there is only one terminal at Al Maktoum Airport, there can sometimes be very long queues for a local taxi.
Convenience
Taking a taxi from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center is the quickest and most convenient way to travel. Your driver will drop you off directly at the door of your accommodation in Dubai and taxis are available no matter what time you land, day or night.
However, as DWC Airport only has one terminal, you may find yourself standing in the hot sun, queuing for a taxi during peak travel times.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreThere’s no direct public transportation from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center. You must take a combination of RTA services: the F55 bus and the metro network.
First, you’ll take the F55 bus from outside the passenger terminal to the “Expo 2020 Metro Station 2”, which takes approximately 50 minutes. You can then hop on the Red Line metro to the “Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro station” in around 45 minutes.
The total journey time is about 1 hour and 35 minutes, not including wait times.
Once you’re at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, you can use the Red metro line to explore more of Dubai, including the World Trade Center, Emirates Tower, and Dubai Mall.
Depending on where you’re staying, you may want to use the Green Line. To connect to this line, you must get off the Red Line at “Union Metro Station”, a few stops further than the Burj Khalifa station. We recommend checking the best option on the official RTA website or Google Maps.
How much is the Al Maktoum Airport to the city center bus?
To ride both the bus and the Al Maktoum Airport to city center metro, you must purchase a NOL pass. The best option for travelers is the Red NOL pass, which costs €0.50 (AED 2). It’s a paper-based ticket that can be topped up with 10 single trips or 5 daily passes and is valid for 90 days.
The cost of a single ride on the F55 bus is €1.50 (AED 6). The metro ticket price depends on how many zones you pass through, so your ticket should cost €1.50 (AED 6), the price of two zones. The total cost will be approximately €3 (AED 12) for taking public transport into Dubai.
*You can purchase and top up your NOL pass inside the airport or metro stations from the RTA automatic ticket machines.
The F55 bus runs from 06:31 to 22:31. The Dubai Metro runs from 05:00 to midnight on Monday through Thursday and Saturday, extends to 01:00 on Fridays, and begins at 08:00 on Sundays, operating until 00:00.
Where do I get the bus from?
The official bus stop for the F55 bus is located just outside of the passenger terminal. There are clear signs leading from the baggage claim to the bus stops. Plus, airport staff will be there to lend a hand if needed. The buses are red, making them easily identifiable.
Convenience
If you’re on a tight budget, taking public transport from Al Maktoum Airport to Dubai city is possible. However, as you will have to make multiple changes, carry your luggage through bus and train stations, and then find yet another mode of transport to your hotel once you reach the Burj Khalifa station, it’s very inconvenient.
Timetables
RTA Journey Planner
Stops, Routes and Prices for all Dubai public transport
Useful Tips
During the day, you can take the F55 bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center, but this service stops at 22:31 and becomes the N55 night bus. Unlike its daytime counterpart, the N55 night bus runs directly into the city center of Dubai, stopping at “Wasl, Emirates Bank 2”, which is 2 km from the Burj Khalifa.
The total journey time on the bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
How much is the bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center?
To ride the RTA bus, you need the NOL Red pass so that you can top it up with a single fare ticket, as the red pass only allows you to use one mode of transport at a time. The cost of a Red NOL pass is €0.50 (AED 2) and a single ticket for the N55 Bus from Dubai DWC Airport to the city center is €1.50 (AED 6).
*You can purchase your NOL pass inside the airport or metro stations from the RTA automatic ticket machines.
The N55 night bus runs from 22:31 until 06:31.
Where do I find the bus?
You will find the stop for the N55 night bus just outside the passenger terminal. The bus stop is signposted from the baggage claim area, and there are members of staff available to point you in the right direction. Once you reach your final stop, you will need to hop in a taxi or walk to your final destination, as the metro doesn’t operate at night.
Convenience
The best thing about the N55 night bus is that it runs during the early hours of the morning, allowing you to take one of the RTA buses 24/7. However, due to longer waiting and journey times, taking the bus from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center is the least convenient way to travel. Plus, you still need to find your way from the bus stop in the center to your accommodation.
Timetables
RTA Journey Planner
N55 Route and Stops
Useful Tips
Taking an Al Maktoum Airport transfer to the city is the best way to travel. Instead of waiting at the taxi rank in the hot Dubai sun, you can walk straight to your air-conditioned, private car and zip off directly to your accommodation in the city.
Taking a private transfer with a company such as Welcome Pickups has been voted the most convenient and relaxing way to start your vacation. We put your comfort at the top of our list, by offering exciting travel extras and plenty of perks:
Choosing a private transfer allows you to plan and pay everything in advance, so when you land in Dubai, you have absolutely no worries or stress. Welcome Pickups drivers are also local experts, so your driver will offer a mini tour on the way to your hotel, so you can learn more about the area and places of interest to you.
What's the cost of a private transfer from Al Maktoum Airport to the city?
One of the most comforting things about booking your transfer in advance is that you will receive a fixed, all-inclusive cost. You won’t need to watch the taximeter climb higher or worry about having enough cash to pay your driver.
A private transfer from Al Maktoum Airport to the city of Dubai in a standard 3-seater vehicle will cost €46 (AED 193). For families or groups of up to 7, you can expect to pay €78 (AED 326) and for larger groups of up to 12, prices start from €138 (AED 577)
Booking your private transfer with Welcome Pickups has never been easier. You can book your rides online or through our app in a matter of minutes by entering your flight number, the number of passengers and your pickup time. Once you have your quote, no surcharges, waiting times or extras will ever be added.
Private transfers are available 24/7 from DWC.
Where do I find my private transfer?
As soon as you exit the baggage claim hall, you will see your friendly driver waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall. To ensure you know exactly who to look for, they will be holding a sign with your name printed on it. After a warm greeting, your English-speaking driver will then lend a hand with your luggage and will lead you and your party to your pre-selected vehicle.
Convenience
Although taking a taxi is a good transfer option, booking a private transfer offers much more comfort and reliability. With a private transfer, you also get so much more value for your money.
There will be no need to wait in the sun for your ride or watch the taximeter climb higher. Instead, you are guaranteed on-time pickups, English-speaking drivers, all-inclusive pricing and a 5-star service every time. Using a private transfer will take all of the stress out of arriving in a new city, allowing you to start your time in Dubai the right way.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 4 passengers
€25Starting from 6.3 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 7 passengers
€37Starting from 5.3 EUR / passenger
Minibus up to 12 passengers
€75Starting from 6.3 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Al Maktoum Airport to Dubai?
There are three transport options from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center: taxi, bus, or private transfer. Taking an Al Maktoum Airport taxi or private transfer is the quickest and most convenient transfer option, as they are direct and take just 40 minutes. Otherwise, you can take a combination of a bus and the metro, but this option takes well over an hour.
How much is taxi from Dubai Airport to Center?
There are no fixed fares for taking a taxi from Al Maktoum Airport to the city center. To cover the Al Maktoum Airport distance to the city, you will be charged using a taximeter. The average cost of a taxi into Dubai will be €37 (AED 150) to €50 (AED 200), depending on the traffic levels and your exact destination in the city.
For a fixed rate fare with no hidden costs, you can pre-book your taxi ride with a private company such as Welcome Pickups.
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.
Is there a metro station near Al Maktoum Airport?
Unlike its larger counterpart, Al Maktoum doesn’t have its own metro station. The nearest metro station to Al Maktoum Airport is located at the Ibn Battuta Mall, which can be reached via car or taxi. Or, you can hop on the F55 bus to “Expo 2020 Metro Station 2”.
What bus number for Al Maktoum Airport?
If you’re traveling during the day, you can hop on the F55 bus to “Expo 2020 Metro Station 2” and then on the Red metro line to get further into the center. For those arriving at night, the N55 bus offers a direct service to “Wasl, Emirates Bank 2” near the Burj Khalifa.
Fern Coll
Fern is originally from England, but her love of travel led her to lay roots in Mexico. She’s a business owner and published author with a passion for storytelling. Fern specialises in travel content, helping brands connect with audiences through engaging writing.
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