Top Must Have Apps for Tourists & Expats in the UAE

Must Have Apps

Whether you’re a tourist exploring the UAE or an expat settling in, these essential apps will help you navigate transport, communication, shopping, and more with ease. 🚀

1. Navigation & Transport Apps

Careem (Super App for Rides, Food, & More)

Careem is the UAE’s homegrown ride-hailing service, now owned by Uber. It offers not just taxis and private cars but also food delivery, bike rentals, and even bill payments. Many expats prefer Careem over Uber due to its availability, loyalty points, and better pricing for certain routes. The app also allows you to book Hala taxis (RTA taxis) at cheaper rates.

Services Offered:

• Ride-hailing (economy, business, and Hala taxis)
• Food delivery from local restaurants
• Bike rentals (Careem Bike)
• Grocery and essentials delivery
• Mobile recharge & bill payments

Uber (International Ride-Hailing Service)

Uber is widely available in major UAE cities, offering safe and convenient rides with premium vehicle options. It’s often preferred by business travelers for its high-end ride choices. Compared to Careem, Uber can sometimes be more expensive, but it offers reliable service with upfront pricing and estimated arrival times.

Services Offered:

• Ride-hailing (UberX, UberXL, Uber Black, Uber Comfort)
• Airport transfers
• Schedule-a-ride feature

RTA Dubai (Public Transport & Nol Card Services)

If you plan to use Dubai’s extensive public transport system, the RTA Dubai app is essential. It allows you to check metro, tram, and bus routes, plan trips, and even recharge your Nol card (used for paying public transport fares). The app also provides real-time updates on transport schedules.

Services Offered:

• Metro, bus, tram, and marine transport schedules
• Nol card balance check and recharge
• Taxi booking services
• Real-time traffic updates

S’hail (All-in-One Public Transport App for Dubai)

S’hail integrates all modes of transport in Dubai, making it easy to plan your journey across metro, tram, buses, and even ride-hailing options. It’s especially useful for tourists who want an all-in-one transport solution.

Services Offered:

• Multi-modal route planning (metro, tram, bus, taxi)
• Real-time arrival update
• Fare calculations

2. Communication Apps

BOTIM / C’Me (VOIP Calling Apps in UAE)

Since WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Skype calls are blocked in the UAE, BOTIM and C’Me are the go-to apps for making internet calls. These apps require a subscription (around AED 50 per month) and work with Etisalat and Du networks.

Services Offered:

• Voice and video calls over the internet
• Secure messaging
• Available on both mobile and desktop

Telegram (Messaging App with Unblocked Calling Features)

Telegram is widely used in the UAE for its strong privacy features and cloud-based messaging. Unlike WhatsApp, certain Telegram calling features remain unblocked, making it a preferred choice for many expats.

Services Offered:

• Messaging with encrypted chats
• Voice and video calling
• Large group chats and channels

3. Banking & Finance Apps

DubaiNow (Government Payments & Financial Services)

DubaiNow is a one-stop app for managing government services, from paying bills to checking visa status. It’s a must-have for residents who need to handle paperwork efficiently.

Services Offered:

• Pay utility bills, traffic fines, and parking fees
• Renew your car registration and driving license
• Apply for visas and track residency status

Payit (Digital Wallet for Easy Payments)

Payit is a UAE-based digital wallet that allows cashless payments for shopping, bill payments, and even sending money abroad. It’s useful for tourists and residents who prefer cashless transactions.

Services Offered:

• Peer-to-peer money transfers
• International remittances
• Online and in-store purchases

4. Food & Grocery Delivery Apps

Talabat (Food, Groceries & Essentials Delivery)

Talabat is the UAE’s leading food delivery app, offering meals from hundreds of restaurants. It also provides grocery delivery and pharmacy services, making it a must-have for expats and tourists.

Services Offered:

• Restaurant food delivery
• Grocery and pharmacy delivery
• Daily essentials shopping

Instashop (Fast Grocery Delivery App)

Instashop specializes in delivering groceries within 30-60 minutes from local supermarkets. It’s especially useful for those who prefer quick and hassle-free grocery shopping.

Services Offered:

• Fast grocery delivery
• Pet food and pharmacy items
• Fresh produce and organic options

5. Shopping & E-commerce Apps

Amazon.ae (Online Shopping in UAE)

Amazon.ae offers a huge variety of products, from electronics to household essentials, with fast delivery options. Prime membership includes free shipping and access to Amazon Prime Video.

Services Offered:

• Online shopping with next-day delivery
• Electronics, fashion, and home essentials
• Exclusive deals for Amazon Prime members

Noon (UAE’s Homegrown E-commerce Giant)

Noon is a local competitor to Amazon and offers great deals on fashion, electronics, and household products. It frequently runs promotions and discounts.

Services Offered:

• Online shopping with frequent sales
• Express delivery options
• Noon Food for restaurant delivery

6. Government & Visa Services

ICA UAE Smart (Visa & Residency Services for Expats)

This app is essential for tourists and expats to check visa validity, residency status, and entry permits. It also allows residents to apply for visa renewals.

Services Offered:

• Check visa status and validity
• Apply for residency permits
• Visa renewals and extensions

7. Entertainment & Leisure Apps

OSN+ (Streaming Platform for International Content)

OSN+ is the Middle East’s top streaming service, offering exclusive Hollywood movies, HBO series, and Arabic content.

Services Offered:

• Movies and TV shows from HBO, Disney, and more
• Arabic and international content
• Mobile and smart TV access

Anghami (Music Streaming App for the Middle East)

Anghami is the UAE’s version of Spotify, with a vast collection of Arabic and international music. It’s a must-have for music lovers.

Services Offered:

• Arabic and international music streaming
• Offline listening for premium users
• Personalized playlists

8. Healthcare & Emergencies Apps

Dubai Health Authority (DHA) (Medical Services & Appointments)

DHA’s app allows users to book medical appointments, check lab results, and even find nearby pharmacies in Dubai.

Services Offered:

• Book doctor appointments
• Check medical records
• Pharmacy and hospital locator

Conclusion

With these essential apps, life in the UAE becomes much easier, whether you’re a tourist exploring Dubai’s attractions or an expat settling into your new home. From transport to shopping and government services, these apps provide everything you need at your fingertips.

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