Cutting-edge Metro of Dubai City offers a cost-effective and speedy way to explore Dubai’s surroundings and attractions. It comprises two lines that run across nearly 90 kilometers, providing seamless connectivity to major attractions and business districts throughout Dubai.
RTA announces Dubai Metro Timings that are tailored to cater to your busy schedules. The Metro runs from 5:00 am till midnight on weekdays and Saturdays. From 5:00 am to 1:00 am the following morning on Fridays. And from 8:00 a.m. till midnight on Sundays.
You can easily navigate throughout the city and take advantage of your stay in Dubai thanks to the Green and Red Lines’ overlapping schedules.
Whether you’re a visitor discovering the city’s marvels or a UAE resident traveling to do business, Dubai Metro, tram, and buses are undoubtedly important components of your daily routine.
With its state-of-the-art facilities and user-friendly ticketing system, getting around Dubai has never been easier. So, feel free to indulge in the hassle-free commutes aboard the metro’s cozy cabins with air-conditioning. Have a pleasant journey!
Key Facts
The amazing metro system in Dubai is built to provide easy and pleasurable city-wide travel.
- Metro in numbers: The Dubai Metro has two main lines, the Red and Green ones, covering a total distance of 75 km and serving 55 stations.
- The Guinness World Record-Winning Line: Metro in Dubai was named the longest driverless metro in the world in 2012.
- Communication is key: Metro is equipped with various conveniences, including Wi-Fi, to keep you connected during your commute.
- Safety properties: With over 3000 surveillance CCTVs and a dedicated Metro Police, your safety is prioritized at all times. In case of emergencies, you have access to an emergency call box to quickly get assistance.
- For individuals with disabilities: It has special measures in place to ensure a comfortable experience for people of determination, including tactile guidance paths and wheelchair access at every station.
- New and innovative: A remarkable addition to the metropolitan system is the Expo 2020 station, which connects you to Expo 2020 – a spectacular event showcasing innovation, sustainability, and human progress.
- Conceptual UAE design: Every station is designed to represent five UAE themes, including history, nature, wind, sea, and fires. Also, stations have artworks and installations by different artists.
- Dubai Metro as a podium: In 2013, residents and guests of the city were able to see trendy outfits during a fashion show by Bloomingdales.
To sum up, the metro is an efficient and dependable way to go around Dubai’s fascinating metropolis. Thanks to its thorough coverage, user-friendly layout, and accessibility features, you can efficiently tour the city.
Timings
Navigating this urban oasis is easier than ever thanks to various metro, tram, and bus stations. Let’s dive into the operating hours of metro journeys that will help you make the most of your time in the city.
From Monday to Thursday, the trains are completely at your disposal from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, providing you with ample time to explore various attractions and business districts. Whether you are heading to work in the morning or enjoying a late-night dinner, the metro’s got you covered.
Fridays are special, with extended operating hours. On this day, the trains start at 5:00 AM and run until 1:00 AM the following day. This lets you take advantage of Dubai’s exciting nightlife without worrying about getting back to where you are staying.
Saturdays follow the same timings as weekdays, with trains running from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight). Enjoy a leisurely day shopping or visiting landmarks, knowing that the metro can take you back home in no time.
Lastly, on Sundays, the first train departs at 8:00 AM and services are available until 12:00 AM. This is perfect for a laid-back start to your week or a day of exploration of sights.
Check out the Roads and Transport Authority website for more info about the current breaks and rescheduling, especially before the public holidays RTA announces Dubai Metro changes in timings.
Lines
The Red Line
One of the 2 main lines of the Metro in Dubai is the Red Line. It travels a distance of around 67 kilometers from Al Rashidiya Station (formerly known as Centrepoint) to UAE Exchange Station.
This route plays a significant part in linking well-known tourist sights, shopping malls, and commercial areas.
You’ll discover that getting to some of the city’s most famous monuments and buildings is surprisingly simple and quick thanks to the 35 stations along the route. Key stations on the Red Line include Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall (R20), Mall of the Emirates (R19), and Dubai International Airport (R34).
Here’s a table with metro stations on the Red Line and nearby attractions to choose from:
| Station Name | Area | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Rashidiya | Deira | Dubai Festival City, Dubai International Airport |
| Emirates | Al Garhoud | Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai Festival City |
| Airport Terminal 3 | Al Garhoud | Dubai International Airport, Dubai Tennis Stadium |
| Airport Terminal 1 | Al Garhoud | Dubai International Airport, Dubai Tennis Stadium |
| GGICO | Al Garhoud | Deira City Centre, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club |
| Deira City Centre | Deira | Deira City Centre Mall, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club |
| Al Rigga | Deira | Al Ghurair Centre, Reef Mall |
| Union | Deira | Al Ghurair Centre, Union Square |
| BurJuman | Bur Dubai | BurJuman Mall, Dubai Museum |
| ADCB | Bur Dubai | Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre |
| Al Jafiliya | Bur Dubai | Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Crossing, Zabeel Park |
| World Trade Centre | Sheikh Zayed Road | Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre |
| Emirates Towers | Sheikh Zayed Road | Emirates Towers, Dubai International Financial Centre |
| Financial Centre | Sheikh Zayed Road | Dubai International Financial Centre, The Dubai Mall |
| Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall | Downtown Dubai | Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain |
| Business Bay | Business Bay | Dubai Canal, Bay Avenue Park |
| Noor Bank | Al Quoz | Noor Bank, Al Quoz Industrial Area |
| First Abu Dhabi Bank | Al Quoz | First Abu Dhabi Bank, Al Quoz Industrial Area |
| Mall of the Emirates | Al Barsha | Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai |
| Sharaf DG | Al Barsha | Sharaf DG Metro Station, Mall of the Emirates |
| Dubai Internet City | Dubai Media City | Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City |
| Nakheel | Dubai Marina | Nakheel Metro Station, Jumeirah Beach Residence |
| Sobha Realty | Dubai Marina | Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah Beach |
| Jumeirah Lakes Towers | Jumeirah Lakes Towers | Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Marina |
| Dubai Marina | Dubai Marina | Dubai Marina Mall, The Walk at JBR |
| Ibn Battuta | Jebel Ali | Ibn Battuta Mall |
| Energy | Al Quoz | Alserkal Avenue, Dubai Garden Centre |
| Danube | Jebel Ali | Jebel Ali Industrial Area, Jebel Ali Village |
| UAE Exchange | Jebel Ali | Jebel Ali Free Zone, Jebel Ali Industrial Area |
| The Gardens | Jebel Ali | The Gardens, Ibn Battuta Mall |
| Discovery Gardens | Jebel Ali | Discovery Gardens, Ibn Battuta Mall |
| Al Furjan | Jebel Ali | Al Furjan, Ibn Battuta Mall |
| Jumeirah Golf Estates | Jebel Ali | Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai Sports City |
| Dubai Investment Park | Dubai Investment Park | Dubai Investment Park, Green Community |
| Expo 2020 | Dubai South | Expo 2020, Al Maktoum International Airport |
The Green Line
The 22.5 km railway track that makes up the Green Line carries travelers from Etisalat Station to Creek Station. It provides access to important industries, markets, and governmental facilities while also serving the requirements of people in Dubai’s historic neighborhoods, such as Deira and Bur Dubai.
There are 20 green line stations, including well-known stations like Al Ras (G10), Al Ghubaiba (G15), and Oud Metha (G15). These stations also act as interchange points for public bus stations, water transport services, and even the Dubai Tram. So you can conveniently switch between metro, tram, and buses and experience the different charms that Dubai has to offer.
Here’s a table of the Green Line stations and nearby attractions:
| Station Name | Area | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Etisalat | Al Qusais | Etisalat Academy, Al Qusais Industrial Area |
| Al Qusais | Al Qusais | Madina Mall, Al Qusais Pond Park |
| Dubai Airport Free Zone | Al Garhoud | Dubai International Airport, Dubai Tennis Stadium |
| Al Nahda | Al Qusais | Sahara Centre, Al Nahda Park |
| Stadium | Al Qusais | Al Mulla Plaza, Dubai Police Headquarters |
| Al Qiyadah | Deira | Al Qiyadah Centre, Zabeel Park |
| Abu Hail | Deira | Abu Hail Centre, Dubai Municipality Centre |
| Abu Baker Al Siddique | Deira | Hamarain Centre, Dubai Creek Park |
| Salah Al Din | Deira | Ansar Gallery, Salman Farsi Masjid |
| Union | Deira | Union Square, Gold Souk |
| Baniyas Square | Deira | Baniyas Square, Spice Souk |
| Gold Souq (Previously Palm Deira) | Deira | Gold Souk |
| Al Ras | Deira | Gold Souk, Spice Souk |
| Al Ghubaiba | Bur Dubai | Al Shindagha Museum, Sheikh Saeed al-Maktoum's House |
| Sharaf DG (Previously Al Fahidi) | Bur Dubai | Mussala Tower Mall |
| BurJuman | Bur Dubai | BurJuman Mall, Dubai Museum |
| Oud Metha | Oud Metha | Wafi Mall, Dubai Healthcare City |
| Dubai Healthcare City | Dubai Healthcare City | Wafi Mall, Dubai Healthcare City |
| Al Jaddaf | Al Jaddaf | Creekside Park, Dubai Dolphinarium |
| Creek | Deira | Dubai Creek, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club |
Cabins Types
Gold
When traveling on the metro, you’ll have the option to upgrade your experience by choosing this type of cabin. This luxurious one provides extra comfort, featuring wide seats made of leather and panoramic views.
You can enjoy your journey in style, with a quieter atmosphere and more personal space than the standard cabins. You’ll need to purchase a Gold class NOL card to enter the Gold cabin.
Silver
If you’re looking for an affordable way to travel on Dubai Metro, the Silver Cabin, also known as the Standard class cabin, is a great option for you.
This cabin is open to all metro passengers, regardless of the type of NOL card you have, and provides comfortable seating for your journey. With the Silver Cabin, you can explore Dubai and its many attractions while staying within your budget and still enjoying a smooth ride.
Both women and men are allowed to use Silver and Gold cabins.
The Women’s and Children’s cabins
For those who seek a more family-friendly environment or simply prioritize privacy, Dubai’s Metro offers Women’s and Children’s cabins.
These designated cabins provide safe and comfortable spots for women, kids, and families to travel together. It is important to note that only women and children under the age of 12 can use these cabins, ensuring that the metro ride is enjoyable for everyone.
Keep in mind that you should always board the relevant cabin based on the type of NOL card you have and that you should respect the cabins designated for the requirements of women and children. Penalties may result from breaking the rules.
You can do a lot of things in Dubai absolutely for free. Check our blog post to learn about budget-friendly activities.
Fares
When using Dubai’s Metro, it’s essential to understand the fare system to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
The primary mode of payment is the Nol Card, a prepaid card that can be used on different types of public transport in Dubai.
The city is divided into seven zones, and fares are calculated based on the number of zones you travel through during your journey and the type of Nol Card you use.
The Silver Nol Card is one of the most popular options, with fares starting at 3 AED for travel within one zone, 5 AED for travel across two adjacent zones, and 7.5 AED for travel across more than two zones. The Gold Card is another option, with fares starting at 6 AED for travel within one zone, 10 AED for travel across two adjacent zones, and 15 AED for travel across more than two zones.
If you prefer a more personalized option, you can opt for a Personal Card. The fares for this card start at 3 AED for travel within one zone, 5 AED for travel across two adjacent zones, and 7.5 AED for travel across more than two zones.
For those who prefer to purchase a single-use ticket, the Red Ticket is available. The fares for this ticket start at 4 AED for travel within one zone, 6 AED for travel across two adjacent zones, and 8.5 AED for travel across more than two zones.
Good news for Students, Social Affairs, and Seniors! When using the right Nol Card, they can get 50% off of the fare. Just make sure to have the necessary documentation to apply for these discounted cards.
In addition, the Metro of Dubai offers free rides for people of determination, making it an accessible and inclusive mode of public transit.
In Dubai, transfers between various types of transport are feasible to complete whole end-to-end journeys. To get where you’re going, you can take the train and then switch to a bus. The transition between the two types of vehicles must be finished in 30 minutes, though. You have thirty minutes to board a bus after leaving the metro station. If you make the transfer in the allotted time, the total number of zones traveled on the bus and the metro will be combined to calculate the cost of your trip.
Dubai Metro Map
The map is designed to help you plan your journey efficiently by showcasing two main lines and Dubai tram stations.
To navigate the city, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these metro lines. The Red Line runs from Rashidiya Station to the UAE Exchange Station, passing through 35 stations in total including major stops such as the Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai International Airport.
It even branches out into two routes at the Jebel Ali interchange, providing further convenience. It caters to areas like Al Barsha, Al Garhoud, Deira, Bur Dubai, Business Bay, and so on.
On the other hand, the Green Line caters to areas like Al Qusais, Al Nahda, Al Qiyadah, and Palm Deira. It starts from Creek Station, traverses 20 stations, and terminates at Etisalat Station. At the Union and BurJuman stations, where the two lines connect, switching between them is simple.
How To Use Dubai Metro
Here’s a step-by-step checklist for using the Dubai Metro:
- Plan your underground trip: Familiarize yourself with the Metro map, which consists of two main lines described above. Try to avoid peak hours when trains are busier to maximize the efficiency of your journey. While non-peak wait times can be as long as 7 minutes, the quickest peak-time wait for a train is approximately 3 minutes and 45 seconds.
- Buy a special card: You’ll need to buy a Nol card, which may be loaded with either a balance for pay-as-you-go travel or a period ticket providing unlimited travel for a specified number of days, to pay for made journeys. Select the card that best meets your needs from the variety of available cards.
- Top up your Nol Card: If you already have a card, it’s recommended to check your balance regularly to avoid running out of credit during your journey. In our article, we have instructions on how to top-up your card and check the amount.
- Enter the station: Use your Red ticket or Nol card to enter the station through the gate.
- Follow the signs: Follow the signs to the platform for your train.
- Wait for the train: Wait for the train to arrive on the platform. The Dubai Metro trains run on a fixed schedule, so make sure you arrive on time.
- Board the train: Wait for the doors to open and then board the train. Make sure you follow the rules and board the correct cabin, as some are reserved for women and kids.
- Find a seat: If you prefer, find a seat and enjoy the ride. If the train is crowded, you may need to stand. Don’t forget to give up seating for children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
- Listen for announcements: Listen for announcements about the next station and any important information.
- Exit the train: When you arrive at your destination, exit the train and follow the signs to the exit.
- Exit the station: Don’t forget to tap your Nol card again at the exit gate. This ensures that the correct fare is deducted from your card balance.
Nol Cards
Hopping on Dubai’s Metro is not only convenient but also made easier with the use of Nol Cards. These smart cards are must-haves for paying fares across RTA transport modes, including metro, tram, and buses. Here, we will introduce you to all kinds of Nol Cards available to make your journeys more enjoyable:
- Gold Card – If you prefer luxury on your trip, the Gold Card which costs 25 AED is an excellent choice. You gain access to the Gold Class carriages on the Dubai Metro with this card, which provides more comfortable seats and greater space to unwind throughout your commute.
- Silver Card – Designed for regular commuters, the Silver Card is a perfect choice that balances ease of use and affordability. This card which costs 25 AED grants you access to standard cabins on Dubai’s Metro and is accepted on other public transport modes as well. But you, as well as Gold card owners, can pay for public parks and the Etihad Museum entry and purchase at more than 2000 stores around the city.
- Blue (Personal) Card – The Blue Card is a personalized Nol Card that allows you to enjoy various benefits and discounts. This card offers secure online services, balance protection, and loyalty reward points for frequent travelers for 70 AED. This card can also be used for RTA’s paid parking services.
- Red Ticket – Perfect for tourists and occasional travelers, the Red Ticket is a paper-based option that allows you to load up to 10 single trips or a combination of trips and zones for only 2 AED. It must be used within 90 days from the date of purchase.
If you are a tourist better choose Silver or Red Card.
Remember to choose the Nol Card that best suits your lifestyle and buy it at the metro or public bus stations and some certain stores.
It’s easy to top up the card online on the Road Transport Authority (RTA) website, at banks, through RTA Customer Happiness Centres, AFC, or Ticket Vending Machines. Please be aware that the Customer Happiness Centres are usually closed during the holiday period, so it is advisable to plan any necessary transactions or requests accordingly.
Parking
There are three significant metro stations where you can easily leave your car.
Rashidiya Station (Centrepoint) offers 2700 parking spaces free of charge for metro users. This station is conveniently located at the end of the Red Line in the Rashidiya area, making it a suitable option for those traveling from or to this part of Dubai.
At Jabal Ali Station, you can take advantage of the large parking area with 3000 spaces available. Similar to the Rashidiya Station, parking here is also free of charge for metro users, making it an attractive choice for those using the metro daily.
Overnight parking is prohibited at the car park, making it suitable only for daytime Metro journeys.
Etisalat Station provides 2300 parking spaces for metro commuters. Located on the Green Line, this station is an essential transport hub for many passengers, and offering these parking facilities adds to its overall convenience.
Rules
Here are some recommendations for riding and using the Dubai Metro:
- It is important to purchase a valid ticket or Nol card before boarding the train.
- Please be mindful of the designated seating areas for women, kids, and individuals with disabilities.
- Refrain from consuming food or beverages while on the train or within the station. Additionally, sleeping in passenger shelters is not allowed.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited within the station and on the train.
- Bringing animals, except guide dogs for blind persons, is also not permitted.
- Keep your personal belongings with you and do not leave them unattended.
- Please be respectful of your fellow passengers and avoid using loud or offensive language or engaging in any behavior that may disturb them.
- Do not block the train doors or obstruct the flow of passengers entering or exiting the train.
- Always follow the instructions of the Dubai Metro staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the metro timings in Dubai?
The Metro in Dubai operates from Monday to Thursday from 5:00 a.m. until midnight, on Fridays from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. the next day, and on Saturdays from 5:00 a.m. until midnight. On Sundays, the metro runs from 8:00 a.m. to midnight.
Does the Dubai Metro run 24 hours?
No, the Dubai Metro does not run 24 hours. However, it operates at extended hours during special occasions.
What is the last timing of Dubai Metro?
On weekdays and Saturdays, the last train departs at midnight, whereas on Fridays, the last train leaves at 1:00 am. Times may change during holidays, check the RTA website for updates.
How can I use the Dubai Metro?
A single-ride, round-trip, or day-pass ticket can be bought to ride the Dubai Metro. A different option is the Nol cashless smart card. Use the online trip planner offered by the Roads and Transport Authority for hassle-free travel.
Where do I buy Dubai Metro tickets?
You can purchase Dubai Metro tickets at the Dubai metro stations. They are available in the form of single, return, and day-pass tickets as well as Nol cards.
What are Nol cards?
Nol cards are cashless smart cards that you can use to pay for Dubai Metro travels, another modes of transportation and even for the shopping and visiting some sights.
Do children need a metro ticket in Dubai?
Children aged 5 years or younger and below the height of 90 cm can travel for free on the Dubai Metro.
Can I travel with luggage on the Dubai metro?
You can bring luggage on the Dubai Metro, yes. But in order to prevent bothering other travelers, it is advisable to keep your luggage to a bearable amount. According to the luggage policy, each passenger is allowed to bring two suitcases. The first bag must be larger than the others, with measurements no greater than 81 cm x 58 cm x 30 cm. The second bag should be smaller, with measurements no more than 55 cm x 38 cm x 20 cm.
Is there a Dubai Metro station at the airport?
Yes, there are two Dubai Metro stations at the airport: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
Is Dubai Metro accessible for wheelchair users?
The Dubai Metro is wheelchair-accessible, with facilities like lifts, ramps, and designated seating areas for wheelchair users.
Do I have to use the women-only cabins?
No, if you'd rather vacation in a mixed-gender cabin instead of the women's-only accommodations, you're welcome to do so. But for ladies who might feel more secure in that environment, there are specific cabins that are exclusively for them.
Does Dubai Metro go to Sharjah?
Currently, the Dubai Metro does not extend to Sharjah. However, you can use other public transport services like buses to travel between Dubai and Sharjah.
The Dubai Metro has completely changed the way people get around the city and is now a necessity for both locals and tourists. It has made commuting more practical and accessible with its wide network of metro, and feeder bus stations. The metro’s schedule is created to meet the needs of users at all hours of the day, ensuring that they can get where they’re going on time.
We summarized some essential tips for beginner users of the metro in Dubai:
- Plan your journey in advance: Use the Roads and Transport Authority’s online journey planner to plan your route and check the timings of the metro and feeder buses.
- Purchase a Nol card: A Nol card can be used in different modes of public transportation, it’s easy to buy and top up. Tourists can choose the Red Ticket which costs only 2 AED for 10 metro journeys.
- Be aware of the etiquette: The metro has certain etiquette rules, such as giving up your seat to the elderly or pregnant women and not eating or drinking inside the trains.
- Use the Gold Class: If you want a more comfortable and luxurious experience, you can opt for the Gold Class, which provides more spacious seating and a quieter environment.
- Avoid peak hours: The metro can get very crowded during peak hours, so try to avoid traveling during 6:00 AM-8:30 AM and 5:00 PM-7:30 PM.
- Keep your belongings safe: Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
- Follow the signs: The metro stations have clear signs and directions, so make sure to follow them to avoid getting lost.
Overall, the Dubai Metro has significantly improved the city’s transportation infrastructure, and it continues to develop and grow to accommodate the population’s expanding requirements.
About The Author
I am Anastasia, the author of this blog and a passionate and experienced traveler who resides in the UAE.
I have visited every Emirate, every popular sight, and every hidden gem.
I m here to help you make your trip to the UAE unforgettable.
