ComeToGuide
11.7 km • ~14 mins

How to Get from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Seef (Dubai Creek)

Al Seef (Dubai Creek) lies about 11.7 km south-west of Dubai International Airport (DXB) on the Bur Dubai side of the Creek. Depending on traffic, the trip takes 14–60 minutes, with taxis fastest and the Metro cheapest.

✓ Verified Oct 29, 2026 • 11.7 km road distance

RTA Dubai Taxi from DXB

Fastest
14 mins •24/7 (Rank at Arrivals)
€13.50 - €16.00 (Per Vehicle)
Luggage: 2 Large Bags OK (Limited Boot Space)
How to take it step-by-step:
  1. Leave Arrivals via the official taxi rank signs; ignore touts inside the terminal.
  2. Join the RTA taxi queue and state Al Seef / Dubai Creek.
  3. Confirm the meter shows the airport start of 25 AED before moving.
  4. Pay by card or cash; Salik tolls and waiting time are added to the meter.

Dubai Metro Red + Green Line to Al Fahidi

Cheapest
45 mins •Every Few Minutes (Check rta.ae)
€1.20 - €1.80 per Person + Nol Card
Luggage: Max 2 Pieces (1 Large ≤81x58x30 cm + 1 Small)
How to take it step-by-step:
  1. From Terminal 1 or 3, follow Metro signs to Airport T1 or Airport T3 station. If arriving at Terminal 2, first take a taxi or bus to Airport Free Zone Green line station.
  2. Buy or use a Silver Nol card; ensure at least 15 AED balance to enter.
  3. Board a Red Line train towards Life Pharmacy or Expo 2020 and change at BurJuman or Union onto the Green Line towards Creek.
  4. Get off at Sharaf DG (Al Fahidi) or Al Ghubaiba; Al Seef has no Metro station, so walk about 10–15 minutes along the Creek to the waterfront.

RTA Public Bus from DXB (Via S'hail App)

Local Option
60 mins •Routes Vary; Plan in S'hail App
€1.20 - €1.80 per Person + Nol Card
Luggage: Limited Luggage Space
How to take it step-by-step:
  1. From Arrivals at any terminal, follow RTA bus signs to the bus stands.
  2. Use a Nol card (cash is not accepted on buses) and check the route in the S'hail app or rta.ae before boarding.
  3. Find a service heading to Bur Dubai / Al Ghubaiba or Al Fahidi area; route numbers change often.
  4. Alight near Al Fahidi or Al Ghubaiba and walk about 10–15 minutes to Al Seef.

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⚠️ Important Local Taxi & Arrival Tips

  • Only use the official RTA taxi rank; ignore touts inside arrivals offering 'private taxis'.
  • Make sure the taxi meter starts at 25 AED from DXB; drivers must add Salik tolls, not negotiate a fixed fare.
  • Buy Nol cards only from official Metro ticket offices or machines; avoid people selling or recharging cards on the street.
  • Confirm card payment with the taxi driver before the ride; some taxis may prefer cash or have card machines switched off.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way from DXB to Al Seef?

Take the Dubai Metro Red Line from Airport T1 or T3, change to the Green Line at BurJuman or Union, and walk from Sharaf DG (Al Fahidi) or Al Ghubaiba. A Silver Nol fare costs about €1.20–€1.80 per person plus the card fee.

Can I take the Metro with large suitcases?

Metro passengers are limited to two pieces: one large suitcase up to 81 x 58 x 30 cm and one small bag up to 55 x 38 x 20 cm. If your bags are larger or you have more, use a taxi or private transfer.

How long is a taxi from DXB to Al Seef?

Without heavy traffic the drive is about 14 minutes for the 11.7 km route. Expect roughly 20–30 minutes in peak traffic; the metered fare with airport start and tolls is about €13.50–€16.00.

Is there a direct bus from DXB to Al Seef?

RTA buses run from all three terminals, but route numbers were not verified for October 2026 and change often. Plan in the S'hail app and expect to change or walk; the Metro is usually a clearer public-transport choice.

Are taxis available at DXB at night?

Yes, official RTA taxi ranks operate 24/7 at every terminal. App taxis such as Careem, Uber and Bolt also operate, but may add a booking fee.

Which option is best for families with luggage?

A private fixed-price transfer is the most comfortable, because the driver meets you inside and luggage is included. An official taxi is also convenient; the Metro is cheaper but has strict luggage limits and a final 10–15 minute walk.

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