The 35-kilometer route from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) takes you across the city to Dubai's popular beachfront district on the western coast. By taxi, expect a 30–45 minute drive via Sheikh Zayed Road, while the Metro combined with a tram connection takes about 50–60 minutes. This is one of the longer airport transfers in Dubai but leads to one of its most vibrant waterfront areas.

About Dubai Marina / JBR

Dubai Marina is a stunning man-made canal city built along a 3-kilometer stretch of shoreline, lined with soaring residential towers, luxury yachts, and a lively pedestrian promenade packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Marina Walk is one of Dubai's best spots for an evening stroll, with waterfront dining and views of the illuminated skyline. Adjacent to the marina, JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) features The Walk and The Beach — open-air shopping and dining complexes right on the sand.

The area is a favorite among tourists and residents alike for its beach lifestyle. JBR's public beach offers free access to clean, well-maintained sand with the iconic Ain Dubai (the world's largest observation wheel) and Bluewaters Island as a backdrop. Water sports, beach clubs, and sunset dhow cruises are readily available. The Marina itself hosts a regular Friday market and is home to some of Dubai's best international restaurants.

For travelers staying in this area, you'll have easy access to beach activities, nightlife, and dining, while still being well-connected to the rest of Dubai via the Metro and Tram. The nearby Mall of the Emirates (with its indoor ski slope) and Palm Jumeirah are just a short ride away.

Nearby Landmarks

Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye) JBR Beach Marina Walk Bluewaters Island The Beach at JBR

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost AED 80-120 (~$22-33)
Time 25-40 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Train (Dubai Metro Red Line to DMCC)

Cost AED 10 (~$3)
Time 45 minutes
Frequency Every 4-7 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. From DXB Terminal 1 or 3, follow signs to the Metro station and purchase a Nol card
2. Board the Red Line heading toward UAE Exchange / Expo 2020
3. Ride to Sobha Realty Metro Station (formerly DMCC, about 35 minutes)
4. Exit and follow signs to the Dubai Tram interchange — it's a short covered walk
5. Board the Tram heading toward Dubai Marina (use the same Nol card — tap on entry and exit)
6. Alight at Dubai Marina Station for the Marina Walk area, or JBR Station for Jumeirah Beach Residence
7. From the Tram stop, most Marina and JBR hotels are within a 5–10 minute walk

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi AED 80-120 (~$22-33) 25-40 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Train AED 10 (~$3) 45 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

After the Metro and Tram stop running (midnight weekdays, 1:00 AM Friday), taxis remain the primary option. The taxi rank at DXB operates 24/7, and the fare to Dubai Marina at night is approximately AED 100–130 with the nighttime surcharge. Uber and Careem are both active around the clock and may offer slightly lower fares than metered taxis for this longer route. Late-night ride-hailing wait times from DXB are typically under 10 minutes. Within Dubai Marina itself, taxis are easy to find at hotel ranks and along the Marina Walk even past midnight.

Luggage Tips

This route requires a Metro-to-Tram transfer at Sobha Realty Station, involving walking between platforms. The transfer is indoors with elevators but tiring with heavy bags. The Tram is spacious, but Metro cars get packed during rush hour. With more than a carry-on, a taxi or Uber direct to your hotel is more comfortable and avoids the multi-step transfer.

Accessibility

Both the Dubai Metro and Tram are fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and designated spaces. The transfer between Metro and Tram at Sobha Realty is step-free with elevator access. JBR's beachfront promenade (The Walk) is flat and paved, suitable for wheelchair users. Most hotels in Dubai Marina have accessible rooms and lobby-level access. RTA accessible taxis can be booked via the RTA app for door-to-door service.