Getting around Dubai can be tricky when you want to explore iconic sites like Palm Jumeirah. The Dubai Monorail solves this problem by offering convenient transportation and exceptional panoramic views of this man-made island.
In this article, you'll find out all you need to know about this aerial train that links the mainland with the UAE's star attractions, including the famous Atlantis Palm Hotel and its surroundings.
Discover the Dubai Monorail: A unique experience in Palm Jumeirah
The Dubai Monorail is much more than just a means of transport in the United Arab Emirates. This aerial train is the main link between the mainland and the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah, allowing visitors to discover one of the city's architectural gems.
Inaugurated in 2009, this transport system travels the 5.5 km length of Palm Jumeirah on a single rail, offering a unique perspective on this engineering feat. During your journey, you'll cross the island from end to end, passing through four strategic stations serving the main attractions. The entire route takes you directly to the iconic Atlantis Palm Hotel and Aquaventure water park, two top destinations for tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates.
Practical information and fares for Monorail Palm Jumeirah
| Route | One-way ticket | Round trip |
|---|---|---|
| Palm Gateway - Al Ittihad Park | 10 | 15 |
| Palm Gateway - Nakheel Mall | 10 | 15 |
| Palm Gateway - Atlantis Aquaventure | 20 | 30 |
| Al Ittihad Park - Nakheel Mall | 5 | 10 |
| Al Ittihad Park - Atlantis Aquaventure | 10 | 15 |
| Nakheel Mall - Atlantis Aquaventure | 10 | 15 |
| Unlimited day pass | 35 | |
Caption: Fares in United Arab Emirates Dirhams (AED) for various Palm Jumeirah Monorail routes. Children under 110 cm travel free.
Travelling around Palm Jumeirah on Dubai's monorail is cheaper than you might think, especially if you're planning several trips during the day. Fares vary according to the distance travelled, with an additional charge to reach the island's star attraction - the Atlantis Hotel and its water park.
The Palm Jumeirah monorail runs daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. from the Gateway station, while from the terminus at the Atlantis Hotel, trains run from 9:15 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Trains runapproximately every quarter of an hour, so you can plan your visits without too much waiting.
To buy your tickets, you have two options: the vending machines in each station or online purchase before you arrive. As the machines do not accept credit cards, be sure to bring enough cash in AED if you opt to buy on the spot. Since October 2022, Dubai Public Transport NOL cards have also been accepted for the monorail, provided they are loaded with the additional amount required for this specific service.
| Pass type | Price (AED) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Résident EAU (1 month) | 135 | 6 round trips, Emirates ID required |
| Family Pass | 99 | 4 people, Round trip Palm Gateway - Atlantis Aquaventure, ID required |
| Unlimited Monthly Pass (Palm Jumeirah residents) | 165 | Emirates ID and proof of residence required |
Caption: Details of the different passes available for residents and families, economical options for regular use of the Palm Jumeirah Monorail.
The Dubai Monorail tour experience
Panoramic views and visual experience
The Dubai Monorail offers spectacular views of the Palm Jumeirah artificial island and the city skyline.
To take full advantage of the panorama during your journey, sit at the front of the train, where the view is unobstructed. Photos are particularly good in the late afternoon, when the sun begins to set over the United Arab Emirates. During the journey, you'll catch a glimpse of the Palm Jumeirah complex with its branches stretching out into the Persian Gulf, as well as Dubai's iconic skyscrapers in the distance. In fact, the monorail is as much a tourist attraction as a means of transport, transforming a simple ride into a true experience of discovery.
Access to main attractions
Discover the main attractions within easy reach of Palm Jumeirah's monorail stations.
- Visit Al Ittihad Park, a unique park with local plants, accessible from the station of the same name.
- Direct access to Nakheel Mall, with its stores, restaurants and cinema, via Nakheel Mall station.
- Discover The View at the Palm, getting off at Nakheel Mall station for a panoramic view of Dubai.
- Enjoy direct access to the Atlantis hotel and Aquaventure water park from the Atlantis Aquaventure station.
The Dubai Monorail provides easy access to the Atlantis Hotel and Atlantis Aquaventure.
The entire journey on the Palm Jumeirah monorail takes around 20 minutes from one end to the other. Allow 5 to 7 minutes between each station, which gives you plenty of time to admire the scenery without the journey becoming monotonous. To optimize your visit, we recommend starting at the View Palm Jumeirah Observatory in the morning to take advantage of the ideal light conditions, then continuing to Atlantis for the afternoon.
Connections to other means of transport in Dubai
The Palm Gateway, the main station of the Dubai monorail, is a ten-minute walk from the Palm Jumeirah tramway station.
| Transport | Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Monorail Dubai | Panoramic view, direct access to Palm Jumeirah attractions | Not connected to the metro, higher fares |
| Dubai Metro | Economical, extensive network | Requires transfer to Palm Jumeirah |
| Cab | Comfort, flexibility | More expensive, possible traffic jams |
Caption: Comparison of the main modes of transport in Dubai, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each for getting to Palm Jumeirah.
The future of transport in Dubai looks bright, with several expansion projects planned for the monorail network. A new station called The Pointe is due to open shortly, increasing connectivity on Palm Jumeirah Island. Discussions are also underway to create a direct connection between the monorail and the Dubai Metro's Red Line, which would greatly facilitate travel between the city center and this tourist area. For the moment, no precise date has been given for the entry into service of these future improvements.
The Palm Jumeirah monorail remains the ideal option for exploring this iconic Dubai island without hassle. With its four strategically placed stations and breathtaking views, this aerial train transforms a simple trip into a true sightseeing experience. Don't wait until your next trip to the United Arab Emirates to add it to your itinerary!
