United Arab Emirates airport exit guides

Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports are squeaky-clean and basically scam-free. The risk is overpaying for convenience — limos, premium taxis, and resort transfers when the metro or Careem does the job for a tenth of the price.

Common exit risks
  • Limo counter quoting AED 200+ for a AED 60 metered ride
  • Resort 'meet and greet' fees buried in fine print
Cash & card advice
  • Cream RTA taxis run a meter and accept card. Avoid the 'limo' counter inside arrivals.
Ride-hailing status
  • Careem and Uber both work. Pickup from designated zones outside arrivals.
AIRPORTS IN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
POPULAR ROUTES IN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

FAQ

Does Uber work at airports in United Arab Emirates?
Careem and Uber both work. Pickup from designated zones outside arrivals.
Should I pay an airport taxi in cash or card in United Arab Emirates?
Cream RTA taxis run a meter and accept card. Avoid the 'limo' counter inside arrivals.
What currency do I need for a taxi in United Arab Emirates?
United Arab Emirates uses the AED (AED). Card accepted at RTA taxis; small AED for street. Avoid changing money at airport kiosks — the rate is usually 5–15% worse than a bank ATM inside the terminal.
Do I tip taxi drivers in United Arab Emirates?
Not expected — round up. Drivers do not rely on tips the way US drivers do, and inflated "tips" are sometimes used to justify an overcharge — pay the metered fare first, then decide.
What airport scams are common in United Arab Emirates?
The three most reported on arrival: Limo counter quoting AED 200+ for a AED 60 metered ride; Resort 'meet and greet' fees buried in fine print. See the individual airport guides for terminal-specific details.
Which airports in United Arab Emirates have exit guides?
We cover 3 airports in United Arab Emirates — including DXB, SHJ, AUH. Each guide has the official taxi rank location, fair fare, ride-hailing status and the scams to watch for on arrival.