Best apps for tourists in Dubai (2026)

Updated October 2026. App features checked against RTA and Dubai Media Office announcements, the UAE Federal Tax Authority and the u.ae government portal.

The right apps make a Dubai trip much easier, from paying for the Metro to booking a taxi or claiming back VAT at the airport. This list covers the best apps for tourists in Dubai in 2026, grouped by what you will actually need them for. Most are free, and many are worth downloading before you land.

Which transport apps do I need in Dubai?

S’hail (RTA)

S’hail is the Roads and Transport Authority’s journey planner. It plans routes across the Metro, buses, tram, abras and ferries, shows fares and arrival times, and lets you top up a Nol card. If you only download one transport app, make it this one.

nol Pay

nol Pay is RTA’s app for managing Nol cards, the travel cards used on the Metro, buses and tram. RTA released an upgraded version in November 2025 with instant top-ups, balance checks, travel pass purchases and low-balance reminders. On supported Samsung and Huawei phones you can also add a digital Nol card and tap your phone at the gates.

Careem

Careem is a regional super app. Tourists mostly use it to book rides, including Dubai’s official Hala taxis, but it also covers food delivery and other services.

Uber, Bolt and other ride-hailing apps

Uber works in Dubai and is handy if you already have an account at home. Bolt, Yango and Zed also operate in the city. Prices and availability vary by time of day, so it can pay to compare.

What are the best apps for navigation and parking?

• Google Maps: Reliable for walking and driving directions and for finding restaurants and attractions.
• Waze: Popular with drivers for live traffic, road closures and speed camera alerts.
• Parkin: Pays for most public parking in Dubai if you rent a car.
• Car rental apps: Apps such as Udrive and ekar rent cars by the hour or day. Check the age, licence and deposit rules for visitors before you book.

Which apps help you plan things to do?

Visit Dubai

Dubai’s official tourism app and website. Use it to discover attractions, events and restaurants, and to plan itineraries.

Ticketing apps

Many attractions sell tickets through their own websites and through major ticketing platforms. Booking online in advance often secures a time slot at busy attractions.

What are the best food and delivery apps in Dubai?

Dubai has a huge delivery culture, and hotels are used to receiving orders.

• Talabat and Deliveroo: Restaurant delivery from thousands of outlets.
• Careem: Also offers food and grocery delivery.
• noon and Instashop: Groceries, pharmacy items and everyday essentials, often delivered within the hour.

Which government apps are useful for tourists?

Dubai Police

The Dubai Police app lets you report non-emergency incidents, contact the police, pay traffic fines if you are driving and access a range of other services. In an emergency, call 999.

UAEICP or GDRFA Dubai

The federal ICP app and the Dubai GDRFA services let you check visa status and handle some visa requests. Most tourists will not need them, but they are useful if you want to extend a visit or check your entry permit.

Planet Tax Free

If you shop, the Planet Tax Free ME app helps you track your VAT refund claims. Under the UAE Tax Refund for Tourists Scheme, each tax-free transaction must be at least AED 250 before VAT, and you must validate purchases within 90 days and leave the UAE within 6 hours of validating. A fee of 13% of the VAT plus AED 3.60 per transaction is deducted.

What should I know about phones and internet calls in the UAE?

Voice and video calling inside some popular messaging apps is restricted in the UAE, while text messaging works normally. Licensed calling apps are available, and hotel and mall Wi-Fi is widely available. For mobile data, tourists can buy a visitor SIM or eSIM from the UAE’s licensed operators at the airport or in malls.

Quick list: best apps for tourists in Dubai

If Dubai is starting to feel like home, you can browse properties for rent when you are ready.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best app for public transport in Dubai?

S’hail, the official RTA journey planner, covers the Metro, buses, tram, abras and ferries, and lets you top up a Nol card.

Does Uber work in Dubai?

Yes. Uber operates in Dubai, alongside Careem, Bolt and other ride-hailing apps.

Can I pay for the Dubai Metro with my phone?

On supported Samsung and Huawei phones you can add a digital Nol card through the nol Pay app and tap your phone at the gates. Otherwise, use a physical Nol card.

Which app do I use for a VAT refund in Dubai?

Use the Planet Tax Free ME app to track claims, and validate your purchases at a Planet kiosk or desk before you leave the UAE.

Do I need the Dubai Police app as a tourist?

It is not essential, but it is useful for reporting non-emergency incidents and accessing police services. In an emergency, call 999.