The Department of Transport's (DoT) vision is to provide an effective transport system that contributes to the economic growth, quality of life and environmental sustainability of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. In line with its vision, DoT works on the regulation, planning and development of an efficient and well-integrated transport system that serves the public interest by enhancing mobility and delivering safe, secure and environmentally responsible public transport in Abu Dhabi.

Such a sophisticated public transport system can only be achieved through proper planning and regulation. Therefore, different public transport modes in Abu Dhabi are being planned and developed in response to the unprecedented urban expansion and population growth of the Emirate. These include Bus, Ferries, Metro, LRT and other modes of pubic transport in Abu Dhabi.

You must take an abra at least once while in Dubai. These are small ferries carrying about 20 people from one side of the Creek to the other. The fare is AED 2.00 (about EUR 0.40). Newer air conditioned abras have been introduced which are totally soulless but certainly more comfortable and cost 4Dhs.

If you are not in a hurry it can be good to get round Dubai by public bus. The bus network has been extensively improved and a typical fare from one end of Dubai to the other is around 4.10 Dhs. The front of the buses are reserved for women and families.

By far the most convenient and most popular way to get round Dubai is taxi. Taxis are metered. Minimum fare is 10 Dhs and it would cost you typically 80-100 Dhs to go from one end of Dubai to the other. Taxi fares from Diera to Dubai mall approx AED28, from Deira to Mall of Emirates AED50, from diera to wafi mall AED20.

The Red line and the Green line of the Dubai Metro are almost fully operational now. It runs from about 5:50am to 11:00 pm on weekdays and slightly later on weekends (Thursday-Saturday). However, it is closed on Friday mornings and starts operation at around 1:30pm. You can find more information here. Fares range from AED 1.80 to 5.60 according to length of journey.

Dubai: Dozens of gifts will up for grabs for commuters including Nol cards and cash prizes apart from free trips on Friday as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) marks fourth Public Transport Day (PT Day) in Dubai.

More than half a million Nol card holders are expected to use free trips from 1am to midnight on Friday on Dubai Metro, public buses and water bus as RTA marks the annual event.

Being held under the theme of 'Progress with Dubai', the PT Day is marked to promote use of mass transit means among the masses and classes.

A slew of activities are planned for the day that includes, a public transport marathon starting from Burj Plaza, a used book expo, a marine parade at Dubai Creek, a Dubai Tram show as well as several health camps at different locations.