What is S’hail App? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Features and Benefits

Navigating a dynamic city like Dubai can be both exciting and challenging. With a wide range of transport options, Metro, Tram, public buses, taxis, ride-hailing services, and even water taxis, commuters and visitors often face the dilemma of choosing the fastest, most cost-effective, and least stressful way to get from point A to point B. Switching between different apps, checking schedules, comparing routes, and tracking real-time updates can quickly turn a simple journey into a complicated task, especially for newcomers and tourists.

This is where Shail App comes in. Developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), S’hail is the city’s official all-in-one mobility app designed to simplify travel across the emirate. Instead of relying on multiple platforms, Shail integrates all major public transport modes, Metro, Tram, Bus, and Marine transport, along with booking services such as taxis and ride-hailing options into a single, easy-to-use interface. The app allows users to plan their journeys, compare transport options, and receive real-time updates, all in one place.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Shail App is, its key features, and the benefits that make it a growing choice among modern users.

What is S'hail App?

The Shail app (previously known as Suhail) is Dubai’s official all-in-one mobility platform developed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It brings together all public transport options, including Metro, Tram, Bus, and Marine services, along with booking solutions such as taxis, ride-hailing, and smart rental services into a single, unified app. Designed for seamless travel across the emirate, Shail enables users to plan journeys efficiently, access real-time updates, and navigate Dubai with ease, making it a complete mobility solution for both daily commuters and visitors.

Key Statistics of S'hail App

Shail App RTA, a unified mobility platform by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), has recorded significant usage and positive user feedback since its 2017 launch.

• Total Planned Journeys: Approximately 1.9 million journeys were planned through the app between March 2017 and December 2019.
• Total Downloads: Over 313,000 downloads were recorded from app stores by early 2020.
• Monthly Active Users: As of early 2020, the app maintained a healthy monthly average of 27,000 users.
• Taxi Bookings: More than 25,000 taxi rides were booked through the app since its launch until July 2019.
• Average User Rating: The app generally holds a positive average rating of around 4.1/5 on various app stores.
• Journey Planning Time: The app reduced the average journey planning time to just 30 seconds. 

The app integrates all RTA transportation services (Metro, Tram, buses, taxis, and marine transport). It offers features such as real-time traffic updates, nol card balance management, and smart rental services like Ekar and Udrive.

Why S'hail App is Trending?

The Shail app, developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), is one of the most widely used transport apps in Dubai. It is popular among both residents and tourists who rely on public transportation. The app continues to trend because it works as an all-in-one mobility platform, offering features that go beyond regular map applications.

Why the S'hail App Is So Popular?

1. Integrated Mobility (MaaS Platform)

Shail is Dubai’s official Mobility as a Service (MaaS) app. It combines all RTA transport options in one place, including:

• Dubai Metro
• Tram
• RTA buses
• Marine transport
• Taxis
• Ride-hailing services like Careem

This integration makes journey planning across multiple transport modes simple and convenient.

2. Comprehensive Journey Planning

The app allows users to plan door-to-door journeys, showing:

• Suggested routes
• Travel duration
• Real-time arrival and departure timings
• Estimated fares

Users can easily compare options and choose the fastest or most cost-effective route.

3. Real-Time Updates & Accuracy

Shail provides live transport updates with highly accurate timings. This helps commuters avoid long waits and plan their trips more efficiently.

4. Nol Card Management

One of the most useful features is the Nol card integration. Users can:

• Check Nol card balance
• Top up their card directly through the app

This is essential for anyone using public transport in Dubai.

5. Additional Useful Features

The app also offers:

• RTA taxi booking
• Smart car rental options
• Offline maps and guides
• Transport news and service updates

The Shail App for Android makes daily travel in Dubai easier by providing accurate schedules and live transport information.

Key Features of S'hail App

The Shail app, developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), is a comprehensive, all-in-one mobility platform designed to help users plan, book, and manage their travel across Dubai efficiently. The app brings together multiple transportation services under one interface, making daily commuting and city travel easier for residents and visitors alike.

Comprehensive Journey Planner

The Shail app allows users to find the fastest, cheapest, or most convenient route between any two locations in Dubai. It intelligently combines different transport modes, including Dubai Metro, Tram, RTA buses, marine transport, taxis, e-hailing services, and even cycling options. This door-to-door planning ensures a smooth and well-coordinated travel experience.

Real-Time Information and Updates

The app provides live traffic conditions, real-time departure and arrival schedules for public transport, and timely alerts regarding delays, diversions, or service disruptions. Users can also set journey alarms and notifications, helping them stay on schedule and avoid unnecessary waiting time.

Booking Services

Through the Shail app, users can directly book RTA taxis, limousines, and smart rental vehicles such as eKar and Udrive. It also offers seamless access to third-party ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem, allowing users to compare options and book rides without switching between apps.

Nol Card Management 

Shail enables users to link and manage their RTA Nol cards conveniently. Features include checking card balances, viewing transaction history, topping up credit, and purchasing or renewing travel passes, making public transport payments simple and cash-free.

Fare Estimates

The app provides accurate fare estimates for journeys across different transportation modes. This allows users to plan trips according to their budget and choose the most cost-effective travel option.

Location Sharing

For added safety and convenience, users can share their real-time location and journey details with friends or family. This feature is especially useful for late-night travel, tourists, or coordinating meet-ups.

Points of Interest

Shail helps users discover nearby points of interest, including parks, hospitals, schools, beaches, and other key locations. This feature is helpful for both daily needs and exploring the city.

Multilingual Support

To serve Dubai’s diverse population, the S’hail app supports nine different languages, ensuring accessibility for users from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Feedback and Suggestions

The app allows users to rate their experience, submit feedback, and suggest new bus routes or service improvements. This feature enables continuous enhancement of Dubai’s public transport system through user input.

Availability

The Shail app is free to download and is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, making it easily accessible to all users.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using S'hail (for Travel Planning & Booking)

The shail app works as a comprehensive Dubai travel planner, allowing you to plan trips using public transport (bus, metro) or book RTA taxis/Careem, manage your nol card, and see live traffic; the basic steps involve entering your start/end points, choosing your transport mode, and confirming your booking, while also integrating nol card services for easier travel and payments within the app.

Download & Open

Download the Shail app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and register or log in using your details to access all features. 

The Shail APK allows users to download and install the Shail app on Android devices to access Dubai’s public transport services, route planning, and real-time travel updates in one place. The Shail App for iOS enables iPhone users to plan journeys, check real-time public transport updates, and travel across Dubai using a single integrated mobility platform.

Enter Journey Details

Tap “Book a Taxi” or use the Journey Planner. Enter your starting point and destination, which can be an address, landmark, or public transport stop name/ID.

Set Time

Choose your preferred departure time or travel schedule. This helps the app suggest the most accurate routes and availability.

Search & Review

Press Search to view multiple travel options, including public transport routes (metro, tram, bus) and taxi or e-hailing services. You can review timings, fare estimates, live traffic conditions, and route details before selecting.

Book a Ride (Taxi/Careem)

• Select your preferred RTA taxi or Careem option
• Review ride details such as estimated arrival time and fare
• Confirm the booking
• Track your ride and wait for your allocated vehicle to arrive

Plan Public Transport

• Choose your preferred public transport route
• Follow the on-screen directions, including walking paths and transfers
• Use real-time updates in the app to stay on track during your journey

With the Shail app download, users can manage their daily commute and explore Dubai using a single, reliable mobility platform.

Benefits of Using the S'hail App

The Shail app, developed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), is a powerful all-in-one mobility platform designed to deliver a seamless and connected travel experience. By bringing together both public and private transportation services into a single app, Shail makes travelling across Dubai simpler, faster, and more efficient for residents and visitors.

Comprehensive Journey Planning 

The app allows users to plan complete journeys using all modes of RTA transport, including the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses (including Bus On Demand), marine transport, and RTA taxis. In addition, Shail integrates cycling and e-scooter options through partner services, enabling flexible door-to-door travel across the city.

Real-Time Information

Shail provides live traffic conditions, real-time departure and arrival schedules, and updates on delays, service disruptions, or route diversions. This real-time data helps users plan their journeys efficiently, reduce waiting times, and avoid unnecessary delays.

Integrated Booking & Payment

Users can book RTA taxis and luxury vehicles directly through the app without switching platforms. The app also connects with third-party ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem, allowing users to compare fares, availability, and booking options in one place.

Nol Card Management

Shail offers full NOL card management, making it easy to check balances, review transaction history, and top up funds using NFC and Apple Pay. Users can also purchase or renew public transport travel passes directly through the app, ensuring a smooth and cashless commuting experience.

Fare Estimates

The app provides accurate fare estimates across different transport modes. This enables users to compare costs and choose the most economical or fastest route based on their travel preferences.

Some Other Value-Added Benefits

QR Code Scanning

Users can scan QR codes at bus stops and stations to instantly view live departure schedules and service information for that specific location.

Offline Maps

Shail allows users to download Metro, Bus, Tram, and Marine route maps and guides for offline access, which is especially useful when travelling without internet connectivity. 

Lost & Found

The app makes it easy to report lost items, especially those left in RTA taxis, and submit feedback directly to RTA through a simple in-app process.

Biometric Login

For added security and convenience, users can log in using fingerprint or facial recognition, allowing quick and secure access to all app features.

Who Should Use the S'hail App?

Daily Commuters

Office professionals and regular workers who depend on public transport can use S’hail to plan efficient routes, check real-time metro and bus schedules, manage nol cards, and avoid delays during rush hours.

Tourists & Visitors

Tourists visiting Dubai can easily navigate the city using S’hail’s journey planner, fare estimates, and nearby points of interest. The app removes the need to download multiple transport or map apps.

Occasional Travelers

Residents who travel occasionally can quickly search routes, compare public transport and taxi options, and choose the most convenient or affordable travel method for their trip.

Taxi & Ride-Hailing Users

Users who frequently book taxis, Uber, or Careem can compare fares, book rides, and track vehicles in real time, all from a single platform.

Students

Students commuting to schools, colleges, or universities can plan low-cost routes, monitor transport timings, and keep track of their NOL card balance easily.

Families & Group Travelers

Families traveling together can plan smooth journeys, share live locations for safety, and select travel options that best suit group needs and budgets.

Cyclists & E-Scooter Users

Eco-conscious users who prefer cycling or e-scooters can locate routes and access bike and e-scooter services through integrated partners in the app.

New Residents in Dubai

Newcomers to Dubai can use S’hail as a complete transport guide to understand routes, fares, and available travel modes across the city, making daily travel easier from day one.

The Shail App roadmap outlines future improvements and feature upgrades aimed at enhancing user experience, real-time accuracy, and smart mobility services in Dubai.

Is the Shail App Safe and Legit?

Yes,  the S’hail app is both safe and fully legitimate.

Here’s why:

Official RTA Platform

Shail is developed and maintained by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai, the official government body responsible for the city’s transport infrastructure. It’s not a third-party or unofficial app, so you’re using a trusted source for travel information and services.

Secure Booking & Transactions

The app uses standard security protocols for booking rides and handling payments, including Nol card top-ups and digital transactions. Sensitive data, such as payment details and personal information, is encrypted and managed securely.

Real-Time Transport Data from Official Sources

All journey information, traffic updates, and transport schedules come directly from RTA systems, meaning the data is accurate, verified, and regularly updated.

Privacy Controls

Shail only collects necessary information for providing travel services, and users have control over permissions like location access, notifications, and biometric login. You can opt into features like location sharing only when needed.

Biometric & Password Protection

For quick access, the app supports biometric login (fingerprint/face ID) and password protection, helping ensure that only you can access your personal profile and settings.

User Feedback & Support

The app includes built-in tools to report issues, submit feedback, and contact RTA support, which helps maintain quality and safety over time.

Widely Used by Millions

Millions of residents, commuters, and tourists in Dubai rely on the S’hail app daily for journey planning and bookings, a clear sign of trust and legitimacy.

Common Problems & Fixes for the S'hail App

App not opening or stuck on loading

Fix:

• Update the app to the latest version
• Force close and reopen
• Restart your phone
• Uninstall and reinstall if the issue continues

Live bus or metro tracking is not working

Fix:

• Turn on location services and allow precise location
• Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data
• Disable VPN if enabled
• Refresh the map screen

Journey planner not showing routes or stops

Fix:

• Re-enter start and destination points
• Try nearby landmarks instead of exact pins
• Clear app cache (Android) or reinstall (iPhone)
• Update the app

Login or UAE Pass issues

Fix:

• Make sure the UAE Pass is fully set up and verified
• Complete face verification if required
• Restart the app and try again
• Visitors may have limited access to some features

NOL Card top-up done but balance not updated

Fix:

• Wait for processing time (can take up to a few hours)
• Tap your NOL card at a Metro gate or top-up machine to activate
• Use NFC scan if supported on your phone

Unable to add or register a NOL card

Fix:

• Ensure you are logged in
• Enter nol card details manually if the NFC scan fails
• Check that your account meets registration requirements

Top Alternatives for S'hail App

While Shail is comprehensive, other apps may offer better user experience or specific features depending on your needs.

Google Maps

Google Maps is widely used for everyday navigation and works well for both driving and public transport. It provides turn-by-turn directions, estimated travel times, traffic conditions, and nearby places. While it supports public transport routes in Dubai, it does not integrate NOL card services or real-time RTA system features, making it less specialized for daily commuters.

Careem / Uber

Careem and Uber are ride-hailing platforms focused on private transport. They are ideal for users who prefer door-to-door travel, comfort, and convenience. These apps allow users to book taxis or private cars, track drivers in real time, and make cashless payments. However, they do not offer metro, bus, or marine transport planning, and costs are generally higher than public transport options.

2GIS

2GIS is a detailed city guide and navigation app known for its accurate maps, building layouts, and offline functionality. It is useful for finding businesses, offices, and landmarks, especially without internet access. While it supports route planning, its public transport coverage and live updates are more limited compared to dedicated transit apps.

Moovit

Moovit is a public transport–focused app designed for daily commuters. It offers step-by-step transit navigation, bus and metro schedules, service alerts, and crowd-sourced updates. Moovit works in many cities worldwide, including Dubai, but it lacks direct NOL card management and deep RTA system integration.

Transit

Transit is a modern public transport app that emphasizes simplicity and real-time updates. It shows nearby transport options, live arrival times, and multi-modal routes in an easy-to-read interface. While it provides reliable transit information, its coverage and local service integration in Dubai are not as comprehensive as the official RTA app.

How to Develop An App Like S'hail?

Step 1: Define the App Concept and Scope

Start by clearly defining the purpose of the app. An app like Shail is a Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform that combines public transport, route planning, and mobility services in one application. Decide early whether you are building a basic journey planner or a full mobility solution with payments and services. This helps control cost, time, and complexity.

Step 2: Conduct User Research and Requirement Analysis

Identify your target users, such as daily commuters, tourists, or students. Understand their travel problems and convert them into simple requirements like route accuracy, live timings, or ease of use. These requirements become the foundation of your feature list.

Step 3: Plan Core Features

Focus on essential features first. These include journey planning, real-time transport updates, interactive maps, nearby stops, and saved locations. Advanced features such as digital wallets, ticketing, and ride-hailing integration can be added in later phases.

Step 4: Integrate Transport and Location Data

An app like Shail relies heavily on accurate data. You must integrate transport schedules, routes, stops, and real-time vehicle tracking through reliable data sources. Without accurate and updated data, the app cannot deliver a good user experience.

Step 5: Design a simple and commuter-friendly UI

The user interface should be fast, minimal, and easy to use with one hand. Key actions like searching routes, viewing timings, and selecting transport options should be accessible within a few taps to ensure smooth daily usage.

Step 6: Choose the Right Technology Stack

Select scalable and reliable technologies for both mobile and backend development. Cross-platform frameworks help reduce cost, while a strong backend ensures real-time performance, data handling, and system stability.

Step 7: Develop the Routing and Real-Time System

Build or integrate a routing engine that can calculate optimal routes and update arrival times in real time. This system must handle traffic changes, delays, and multiple transport modes efficiently.

Step 8: Implement Payments and User Accounts

If the app includes ticketing or top-ups, integrate secure payment systems and user authentication. Security and data protection should be treated as a priority from the beginning.

Step 9: Test the App Thoroughly

Test the app in real-world conditions such as low internet coverage, peak travel hours, and different device types. This ensures reliability before public launch.

Step 10: Launch and Scale Gradually

Release the app in phases, starting with core features. Collect user feedback, monitor performance, and continuously improve accuracy, usability, and features over time.

Cost to Develop an App Like S'hail App

Basic Version (MVP)

Who it’s for: Small startups, testing the idea, limited budget

What it includes:

• Route planner with public transport
• Static schedules (no real-time)
• Basic map & nearby stops
• Basic UI/UX
• Simple search + directions

Estimated Cost: $40,000 – $80,000

What you get:

• Android + iOS (cross-platform)
• Basic backend + API
• Map integration
• QA & launch support

Ideal if you want to validate demand before investing big.

Advanced Version

Who it’s for: Main commuter app, regional rollout

What it includes: Everything in Basic, plus:

• Real-time transport tracking
• Live ETAs for buses/metro
• Route suggestions with multiple options
• Notifications & service alerts
• Favorites/saved places
• Better UI/UX design

Estimated Cost: $80,000 – $140,000

Add-ons often included:

• More polished UI
• User accounts
• Admin dashboard
• Better analytics

This version works well for a city-wide public transport tool.

Enterprise Version (Full-Scale MaaS)

Who it’s for: Large transport authorities or market-leading mobility platforms

What it includes: Everything in Advanced, plus:

• Wallet & digital ticketing
• In-app payments & recharge
• Taxi/ride-hailing integration or your own fleet
• Loyalty/rewards programs
• Parking, micro-mobility, multi-city features
• Admin portal with analytics + live operations panel
• SLA support, monitoring, compliance

Estimated Cost: $140,000 – $250,000+

Why it’s expensive:

• Real-time data pipelines
• Secure payments & compliance
• Integrations with multiple partners
• High scalability & uptime

Tech Stack Used to Build An App Like S'hail App

Mobile App (Frontend)

• Flutter or React Native for cross-platform iOS & Android
• Native option: Swift (iOS), Kotlin (Android)

Backend & APIs

• Node.js (Express/NestJS), Java Spring Boot, or .NET Core
• REST APIs for app–server communication

Database & Caching

• PostgreSQL + PostGIS for transport and location data
• Redis for fast real-time updates and caching

Maps & Location Services

• Google Maps, Mapbox, or HERE Maps
• Geocoding and directions APIs for routing

Public Transport & Routing

• GTFS for routes and schedules
• GTFS-Realtime for live vehicle data
• OpenTripPlanner for multi-modal route planning

Real-Time Updates

• WebSockets for live arrival times
• Kafka / RabbitMQ (optional) for data streaming

Authentication & Security

• OAuth 2.0 with JWT
• Optional integration with national ID systems (e.g., UAE Pass)

Payments & Wallet (Optional)

• Stripe / Adyen / Checkout.com
• Apple Pay / Google Pay

Notifications & Analytics

• Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM)
• Firebase Analytics / Crashlytics

Cloud & Deployment

• AWS / Azure / Google Cloud
• Docker for deployment
• CI/CD via GitHub or GitLab

How DXB APPS Builds the Best Mobile Apps in the UAE?

DXB APPS builds the best mobile app development Dubai solutions by combining deep market understanding with strong technical expertise. The team of mobile app developers focuses on the real needs of UAE users, designing apps that are intuitive, fast, and easy to use across all devices. 

In addition, DXB APPS follows an agile development approach, allowing continuous improvement through testing, feedback, and data-driven decisions. Security, performance, and compliance are treated as priorities from day one, especially for industries like transport, e-commerce, and fintech. 

From idea validation to post-launch support, DXB APPS works as a long-term mobile application development Abu Dhabi partner, helping businesses in the UAE launch, scale, and succeed with high-quality mobile applications. Businesses rely on web development Dubai experts such as DXB APPS to create responsive websites that drive engagement and conversions.

Conclusion

The Shail App is a powerful all-in-one mobility solution that simplifies travel across Dubai by bringing public transport, route planning, real-time updates, and essential RTA services into a single platform. Designed for both residents and visitors, it helps users save time, plan journeys efficiently, and move around the city with greater confidence and convenience. Its user-friendly interface, accurate transport information, and integration with multiple travel modes make daily commuting and city exploration much easier.

Overall, Shail stands out as a smart mobility companion for modern urban life in Dubai. By reducing the hassle of switching between multiple apps and offering reliable, up-to-date transport insights, it supports a smoother and more sustainable travel experience. As Dubai continues to evolve as a smart city, the Shail App plays a key role in shaping the future of connected and intelligent transportation.

FAQs

What is the S'hail app? 

Shail is a free RTA app that helps users plan journeys around Dubai using various modes of transport, including metro, bus, tram, marine transport, taxis, e-hailing, and cycling. It offers real-time traffic updates and cost estimates.

Do I need to register?

You can use the app as a guest, but creating an account (or logging in with your UAE Pass) is recommended to access all features, such as linking your NOL card and booking taxis.

What data does the app collect? 

The app may collect personal info and messages, and data is encrypted in transit. You can request data deletion.