How to get around Dubai with children using public transport and taxis

Dubai's metro, buses, and taxis are child-friendly with dedicated family areas, stroller access, and car seats available in premium taxis. The metro is your best bet for major attractions, while taxis work best for door-to-door trips with young children. Buy a Nol Card at any station and always use the Family/Women carriages on the metro.

  1. Get a Nol Card for each family member. Buy Nol Cards at any metro station or authorized retailer. Children under 5 travel free. Kids 5-15 get discounted fares. Load at least 50 AED per card to start. One adult can pay for multiple children on the same card if needed.
  2. Master the metro family rules. Use the Gold Class or Family/Women sections only - regular carriages prohibit children under 12. Board at the front of the platform for Family/Women carriages. Fold strollers during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM). Keep children seated and supervised at all times.
  3. Plan your metro routes strategically. Red Line connects major family attractions: Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Marina Walk, JBR Beach. Green Line serves Dubai Creek, Gold Souk, and traditional areas. Download the RTA Dubai app for real-time schedules and route planning.
  4. Use buses for short local trips. Dubai buses have dedicated family sections at the front. Press the stop button early - drivers don't always wait long. Carry small change as not all buses accept Nol Cards, though most do. Buses 8, 81, and F55 connect major tourist areas.
  5. Book the right type of taxi. Regular taxis: No car seats provided, children under 4 must sit on adult laps. Ladies taxis (pink roof): Female drivers, safer for solo moms. Premium taxis: Car seats available on request when booking through Careem or Uber. Book 15 minutes early for car seat requests.
  6. Navigate with strollers and bags. All metro stations have elevators - look for the accessibility signs. Escalators allow strollers but hold tight and face forward. Taxis have limited trunk space, so pack light or book larger vehicles through apps.
Can I bring a stroller on the Dubai Metro?
Yes, but fold it during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM). Use elevators, not escalators, when possible. All stations have elevator access.
Do taxis in Dubai provide car seats?
Regular taxis don't provide car seats - children under 4 sit on adult laps. Premium taxis through Careem or Uber can provide car seats on request when booking.
Are there family areas on public transport?
Yes. Metro has Family/Women carriages (Gold Class also works). Buses have family sections at the front. Regular metro carriages don't allow children under 12.
How much does public transport cost for children?
Under 5: free. Ages 5-15: discounted fares (about 1 AED for metro, 1.50 AED for buses). Adults pay 3-7.50 AED depending on zones traveled.
What's the best transport option for very young children?
Taxis for convenience and door-to-door service. Metro works well for longer distances if you're comfortable with the family carriage rules and have a lightweight stroller.