Visiting or Living in Dubai? Download These Must-Have Apps 2025

REAL ESTATE1 week ago

Dubai is a city that thrives on innovation, efficiency, and smart living. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a new expat, or a first-time tourist, there’s one thing you should never go without—a set of must-have Dubai apps. From transport and food delivery to government services and travel guides, the right app can completely change the way you experience the city.

In this article, we explore some of the most useful and trusted apps that make life easier, smoother, and more connected in one of the world’s most advanced cities.

1. DubaiNow: Your One-Stop Smart Government App

If you only download one app in Dubai, make it .

This all-in-one government services app allows users to access over 130 services from more than 30 government and private entities. You can pay your utility bills, renew your car registration, top up your Salik (road toll) account, and even donate to charity—all from one clean, user-friendly interface.

Key features of DubaiNow:

Pay DEWA, Etisalat, and du bills
Renew your Emirates ID and driving license
Check and pay traffic fines
Track visa and residency applications
Locate service centers and hospitals

Why it’s a must-have: It saves time, reduces paperwork, and helps you stay updated with official services. It’s especially useful for busy professionals, families, and anyone who wants to avoid long queues.

2. Careem: Dubai’s Go-To Ride-Hailing and Delivery App

While Uber is available in , Careem is the local favorite. Founded in the Middle East and now part of the Uber family, Careem offers ride-hailing, food delivery, and even grocery services.

Why Dubai residents love Careem:

Multiple car types for all budgets (Economy, Business, Max)
Easy ride-booking and real-time GPS tracking
Careem Pay for fast and secure digital payments
Careem Bike for eco-friendly transport
Food and grocery delivery from top local brands

Whether you need a ride to the Burj Khalifa or want dinner delivered to your hotel, Careem is fast, reliable, and user-friendly.

3. S’hail: The Smart Transport App by RTA

Moving around without a car? S’hail is your travel companion.

Developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), S’hail brings together all modes of public transport into one app. It includes metro, tram, buses, marine transport, and taxis, making it a must for commuters and tourists alike.

With S’hail, you can:

Plan routes across metro, buses, and trams
View real-time schedules and expected arrival times
Book taxis and limousines
Pay for your rides using Nol card integration

If you want to navigate affordably and efficiently, S’hail is essential.

4. Talabat: Fast Food and Grocery Delivery at Your Fingertips

Dubai is famous for its world-class dining, and Talabat brings that experience home.

As one of the UAE’s top food delivery platforms, Talabat partners with thousands of restaurants, supermarkets, and even pharmacies. The app is known for its wide selection, speedy delivery, and regular promotions.

Features that stand out:

Filter by cuisine, rating, and delivery time
Grocery and essentials delivery from Carrefour, Lulu, and more
Secure online payment options
Live order tracking
Multilingual interface

Perfect for lazy evenings, late-night cravings, or quick grocery top-ups.

5. The Dubai Mall App: Shop, Explore, and Never Get Lost

Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. The official Mall app is a lifesaver for anyone who wants to explore it fully without getting overwhelmed.

The app features:

Interactive indoor map with store search
Real-time navigation inside the mall
Details on sales, events, and promotions
Information on parking and valet services
Online shopping and food ordering from mall outlets

For both tourists and locals, it’s an essential tool to enhance your mall experience.

6. Zomato: Explore Dubai’s Food Scene Like a Local

If you love dining out, Zomato is your foodie guide to .

This popular app lets you discover restaurants, cafes, and lounges based on cuisine, budget, location, and ratings. It also features reviews, photos, and digital menus to help you decide where to eat.

Zomato benefits include:

Honest customer reviews and photos
Menus with prices and restaurant info
Book tables directly through the app
Explore trending spots and hidden gems

Zomato helps both tourists and residents enjoy dynamic food culture.

7. Noon: The All-in-One Shopping App for Everything You Need

Noon is the UAE’s answer to Amazon, offering everything from electronics and beauty to fashion and homeware all delivered to your door.

Why it’s useful:

Daily deals and flash sales
Easy return and refund policies
Express delivery in many areas
Integrated digital wallet
Wide range of local and international brands

Noon makes online shopping fast, affordable, and convenient for every lifestyle.

8. Visit Dubai: Your Official Travel Guide App

If you’re new to the city, the Visit Dubai app is a must. Created by Department of Economy and Tourism, it’s your one-stop guide to attractions, activities, events, and hidden gems.

Main highlights:

Plan your itinerary with “My Trip” feature
Discover cultural sites, beaches, and theme parks
Check event schedules and buy tickets
Access exclusive offers and discounts

Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, the app helps you experience Dubai like a local.

Final Thoughts

Dubai is a city that never stops moving and these must-have apps help you keep up. Whether you’re managing bills, catching a metro, ordering groceries, or discovering a new café, there’s an app designed to simplify your daily life in the city.

By keeping these smart tools at your fingertips, you’ll save time, avoid stress, and get the most out of everything Dubai has to offer. Most of them are free to download and available on both Android and iOS.

As Dubai continues to grow as a smart city, having the right digital tools is no longer just a convenience it’s a necessity.