Everything You Need to Know about Dubai Ferry
The Dubai ferry is one of the best options to explore the exotic sea and heritage of the city. It travels around the Emirates in traffic-free waterways. The ferry rides are gaining popularity among tourists, owing to the comfortable and fully air-conditioned cabin made for passengers.
In this guide, we will provide you with complete information regarding the Dubai ferry, its timing, routes and fares.
All About RTA’s Dubai Ferry
The Dubai ferry is a major part of marine public transport in Dubai. The RTA ferry ride in Dubai was initiated in 2011 and now it is a popular marine attraction. The word ‘Ferry’ refers to a water vehicle that transports cargo and passengers from one place to another. However in Dubai, the ferry is more than just public transport. Let’s discuss the Dubai ferry trip in detail.
Features
The Dubai ferry was designed to facilitate passengers by all means. The seating capacity of the ferry is 98 passengers with wheelchairs and stroller spaces. Moreover, it has separate restrooms for males, females and a specially designed one for people of determination. Every ferry is equipped with a kiosk that sells snacks and souvenirs. Four different LCD screens are also placed inside the ferry to entertain passengers during the journey.
Route Map and Timings
The Dubai ferry currently runs on six major routes and has three terminals:
- Al Ghubaiba
- Dubai Marina
- Dubai Canal Station
The ferry also runs on the inter-Emirate route and connects Dubai with Sharjah. This ferry route is gaining popularity as a marine public transport. The ferry provides a comfortable ride without traffic which is common on major UAE highways like E11 or E31. Therefore, the majority of people are using it as a source of daily commute. The routes within Dubai cover major tourist destinations and run 7 days a week. See the following information about Dubai ferry timings and destinations covered.

Dubai Marina Terminal
The Dubai Marina ferry station is operational throughout the week. The first ferry ride starts at 11:30 am and the last ride leaves at 06:00 pm.
- 11:30 am: It’s a round trip that covers Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah and then back to the station.
- 01:00 pm: It’s a one-way trip from terminal to Al Ghubaiba with a pit stop at Dubai Water Canal.
- 04:30 pm: Round trip that covers areas near Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis.
- 06:00 pm: It’s a one-way trip to Al Ghubaiba with a stay at Dubai Water Canal.
Al Ghubaiba Terminal
There are three different routes available from Al Ghubaiba station.
- 01:00 pm: One-way trip from terminal to Dubai Marina via Dubai Water Canal.
- 04:30 pm: Circular trip to Dubai Creek. This is especially for tourists.
- 06:00 pm: One-way trip to Dubai Marina via Dubai Water Canal.
Water Canal Marine Station
The ferry route from Marine station is a single route that runs from terminal to terminal.
- 02:05 pm and 07:05 pm: from terminal to Al Ghubaiba
- 01:50 pm and 06:50 pm: from terminal to Dubai Marina

Fares and Rental Options
The fares of the Dubai ferry are different as per the class and route of the ferry. You can also rent the whole boat for private and commercial purposes. The rent of the Dubai ferry is flat AED 2,800/hour and it is available from 10:00 am to 06:00 pm.
You can pay the ticket price at ticket booths at every ferry station. Other details regarding Dubai ferry tickets are mentioned below:
- Al Ghubaiba Station: It will cost AED 50 for silver and AED 70 for gold class. Whereas, for children from 0 to 5 years of age it’s free.
- Al Ghubaiba Station (Creek) and Dubai Marina Mall: It is AED 50 for silver class and AED 75 for gold class. The terminal also provides a family package that includes 2 adults and 2 children. The fares of the family package are AED 140 for silver and AED 210 for gold class. Moreover, children aged 2 to 10 can avail 50% discount.
- Water Canal Marine Station: It is AED 50 for the silver class and AED 70 for gold. Whereas, children between the age of 0 to 5 years are free.
- Al Ghubaiba Station to Sharjah: The fare for one way is AED 15 for silver class and AED 25 for gold. However, the service is currently unavailable due to travel restrictions.

How to Book
RTA Dubai provides multiple options for booking ferry rides. You can access timings and other details regarding the ferry through RTA Mobile App (Android | Apple) or S’hail App (Android | Apple). You can also call 800-9090 for pre-booking and further information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the Dubai ferry?
Each ferry boat is 32 meters in length with a seating capacity of 100 people and three restrooms.
Is the Dubai Water Canal ferry service operational?
Yes, the Dubai Water Canal ferry stations became operational recently. It is one of the longest routes covered by the ferry.
How to reach Dubai Marina Mall ferry station?
The Dubai Marina Mall ferry station is located at a distance of 457 meters from Dubai Marina Mall. You have to turn left from the mall and walk straight to the station.
This was all about the Dubai ferry. Water transports are gaining popularity due to the heavy traffic jams on roads. However, routes of ferry services are limited, if you want to explore every bit of the Dubai water channel, browse through these used boats for sale in Dubai.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on water transport in Dubai.