Frequently Asked Questions about Dubai Ferry
As a lot of people are posting comments which ask the same questions (most answers of which are on the site), I thought it would be helpful to provide an FAQ section where hopefully you can immediately find the answers that you are looking for.
How Many Passengers Can the Ferry Carry?
The ferry has a capacity of 100 passengers. At peak times the ferry may fill up but off peak there is usually plenty of room for everyone.
Where Can I Buy Tickets?
You can buy tickets at the ticket booths that are located right next to where the ferry departs. You need to go to the ticket booth around half an hour before departure.
You can also buy sometimes buy tickets online via the Burj Khalifa website. There is a 5 dirham per ticket booking fee and the tickets that you can buy on there vary so you just need to check what is available. Not all trips can be booked online and this booking service comes and goes!
You can also try to book online via the RTA website although you will need a UAE phone number and even then sometimes this service doesn’t seem to work.
Can I Buy Tickets In Advance?
Yes you can buy tickets for certain trips (see above) online up to 30 days in advance.
Where do the Ferries Depart From?
Ferries depart from specific Marine Transport Stations. For maps of the locations of the ferry terminals please see the maps page.
Will the Trip Definitely Run?
Ferries that go from one marine transport station to a different one will always run but round trips (those that depart and return to the same station) may only run with a minimum of 10 passengers.
Will the Ferry Be Crowded?
On some occasions the ferry might be busy – this is usually only on public holidays and sometimes on a Friday. If in doubt then arrive around 30 minutes before the ferry is due to depart.
Do I Get a Discount with my Emirates NBD Card?
Yes you can currently get a free ride on the Dubai Ferry with the Emirates NBD Go4It Credit Card. You can find out further details here.
What is the Difference between Gold and Silver Class Tickets?
Gold class tickets give you access to a more luxurious seating area at the front of the boat. Silver class is at the back with access to the outside (although you can still go outside with gold class tickets).
When Do the trips Run?
The trips run 7 days a week from Al Ghubaiba, Dubai Marina, Sharjah Aquarium and the Dubai Water Canal. Check out the Routes page for trip info but be aware there may be temporary route closures depending on current circumstances.
Do Children Get Reduced Price Tickets?
Yes, children under the age of 5 years travel for free on the commuter ferry that runs between Al Ghubaiba and Dubai Marina.
For the circular (tourist) trips, children under 2 travel for free and children aged 2-10 pay half price.
Is There Wheelchair/Pushchair Access?
Yes you can use the ferry with a wheelchair and take pushchairs on board. There are special spots for wheelchairs to park on board.
How Much Are the Tickets?
Gold class tickets are 75 dirhams and Silver class tickets are 50 dirhams for the trips to/from the Marina and Al Ghubaiba. All prices can be found on the tickets page.
How long Does the Trip Last?
The trip between Dubai Marina and Al Ghubaiba takes around 1hr 40 minutes. Circular trips from Dubai Marina take around an hour. The Dubai-Sharjah trip takes about 35 minutes.
Can You Get Refreshments On Board?
Yes there is a limited snack and beverage service on board.
Can You Take a Bike or Scooter On Board?
Yes there is limited space for these. See this announcement for more details.
Are There Toilet Facilities On Board?
Yes there are toilet facilities (including some for disabled passengers) on board.
How Can I Get a Job on Dubai Ferry?
You will need to contact the RTA with regard to any possible job vacancies for Dubai Ferry.