The modern Al Maktoum International airport (DWC) is the second airport of Dubai, located on the south west of the city. The airport is a major hub for smaller airlines and serves as relief valve to Dubai International Airport (DXB). The most common and fastest method of transportation from the airport to the downtown area of Dubai is currently by taking a Dubai airport taxi. Journeys usually take 40 minutes and fares range from 32€ (134 AED) to 37€ (155 AED) depending on traffic. On the other hand, travelers 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). The combined travel time should take 60 minutes on average.
Comparison of the options
PRICE FOR 2PASSENGER
OPTION
PRICE
DURATION
AVAILABILITY
Bus
€4
60min
24/7
Taxi
€37
40min
24/7
How to get from Al Maktoum airport to city centre (Burj Khalifa) by bus
Unfortunately, Al Maktoum airport offers no direct public transportation method to the heart of Dubai. Instead, people traveling to Dubai must take the provided airport bus (F55) to Ibn Battuta Metro Station and then get on board the green metro line to Burj Khalifa station. The total travel price for both means of transit will sum up to 2€ (8.40 AED) and the journey will last around 60 minutes, not including waiting time at the metro station.
How to get from Al Maktoum airport to city centre (Burj Khalifa) by bus
Unfortunately, Al Maktoum airport offers no direct public transportation method to the heart of Dubai. Instead, people traveling to Dubai must take the provided airport bus (F55) to Ibn Battuta Metro Station and then get on board the green metro line to Burj Khalifa station. The total travel price for both means of transit will sum up to 2€ (8.40 AED) and the journey will last around 60 minutes, not including waiting time at the metro station.
How much is the bus from Al Maktoum airport to 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 F55 and F55A night bus is 1 hour at most.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The F55 bus line is available 24/7.
Where do I get it from?
The bus station for the F55 and F55A night bus is located at the corresponding bus station outside of the arrivals hall. Airport staff and signage can help you get to the bus stop.
Convenience
As the only mean of transportation to the city centre of Dubai, the F55 and F55A night buses offer connection only to Ibn Battuta Metro Station and only once every hour. In other words, travelers on a tight schedule should consider this method of transportation since neither is itefficient nor trustworthy. 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, the public transportation services at Al Maktoum do not follow a certain locked timetable, just connections per time periods.
Useful Tips
If you plan to take a bus from the airport, it’s important to note that Dubai buses do not accept payment in cash or coins.
You’ll find kiosks in the airport that will allow you to purchase a NOL card before getting on the bus.
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.
How to get from Al Maktoum airport to city centre by taxi
As the second airport of Dubai, Al Maktoum International Airport offers similar private taxi services with cream colored vehicles and metered fares per kilometer. All taxi companies are government controlled and tariffs are expected to be comparable. The trip to Dubai normally lasts around 40 minutes under regular traffic, while one way prices should not exceed 37€ (155 AED) regardless of the operator.
How to get from Al Maktoum airport to city centre by taxi
As the second airport of Dubai, Al Maktoum International Airport offers similar private taxi services with cream colored vehicles and metered fares per kilometer. All taxi companies are government controlled and tariffs are expected to be comparable. The trip to Dubai normally lasts around 40 minutes under regular traffic, while one way prices should not exceed 37€ (155 AED) regardless of the operator.
Taxi fare from Al Maktoum airport to city centre
All taxi operators must follow the government pricing system which includes; 7€ initial airport fee, 0.45€/km distance fare and 0.15€/km waiting fare. As a result, regular trips to the downtown district of Dubai cost 32€ (134 AED) to 37€ (155 AED) at most.
Book a transfer
Convenience
Despite Dubai's expensive and lavish reputation, taxi prices in the city and UAE in general are quite affordable compared 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
Taxis at the airport are not equipped with card readers, so make sure you exchange money beforehand so you can pay in cash.
Remember that a taximeter is the only legal pricing system, any driver charging otherwise is doing so illegally.
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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