Dubai Metro: Your Guide to Efficient and Affordable Travel in Dubai
The Dubai Metro is a marvel of modern engineering, offering a clean, efficient, and affordable way to navigate Dubai’s vibrant cityscape. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a resident, the Dubai Metro is an excellent choice for getting around the city. This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the essential information you need to utilize the Dubai Metro seamlessly.
About Dubai Metro
Launched in 2009, the Dubai Metro is a driverless, fully automated railway network. It boasts two lines – the Red Line and the Green Line – that efficiently connect most of Dubai’s key areas. The Red Line runs from Centrepoint in the north to Expo 2020 in the south, while the Green Line cuts through the eastern part of the city, connecting Etisalat to Dubai Creek.
The Dubai Metro is a perfect choice for tourists and residents alike. It’s a quick and reliable way to get around, avoiding the hassles of traffic congestion. The stations are clean, well-maintained, and offer a comfortable travel experience.
The Trains
The Dubai Metro utilizes a fleet of modern and driverless trains. These spacious and air-conditioned trains offer a comfortable journey, featuring dedicated cabins for women and children in certain classes. The trains operate at frequent intervals, ensuring minimal waiting times, especially during peak hours.
Dubai Metro Map
The Dubai Metro network comprises two main lines: the Red Line and the Green Line. The Red Line stretches from Expo 2020 to Centre point, covering key areas like Dubai Marina, Mall of the Emirates, and Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. The Green Line runs from Etisalat to Dubai Creek, serving locations like Dubai Healthcare City and Al Nahda. A comprehensive map showcasing the Dubai Metro network, including all stations, is available on the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website
Metro Stations of the Green Line
The Dubai Metro Green Line runs from Etisalat station in the east to Dubai Creek station in the west, serving key areas of Dubai. Here’s a list of all stations on the Green Line:
Green Line Metro Station | |||
1 | Etisalat | 10 | Baniyas Sqaure |
2 | Al Qusais | 11 | Gold Souq |
3 | Dubai Airport Free Zone | 12 | Al Ras |
4 | Al Nahda | 13 | Al Ghubaiba |
5 | Stadium | 14 | Sharaf DG |
6 | Al Qiyadah | 15 | Oud Metha |
7 | Abu Hail | 16 | Dubai Health Care City |
8 | Abu Baker Al Siddiq | 17 | Al Jadaf |
9 | Salah Al Din | 18 | Dubai Creek |
Metro Stations of the Red Line
The Dubai Metro Red Line is the longer of the two main lines, stretching from Jebel Ali station in the south to Centrepoint station in the east. It covers popular tourist destinations and major business districts. Here’s a list of all stations on the Red Line:
Red Line Metro Station | |||
1 | Expo 2020 | 18 | Equity |
2 | Dubai Investment Park | 19 | Onpassive |
3 | Jumeirah Golf Estates | 20 | Business Bay |
4 | Al Furjan | 21 | Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall |
5 | Discovery Gardens | 22 | Financial Centre |
6 | The Gardens | 23 | Emirates Towers |
7 | Jabal Ali | 24 | World Trade Centre |
8 | Ibn Battuta | 25 | Max |
9 | Energy | 26 | ADCB |
10 | Danube | 27 | BurJuman (Transfer to Green Line) |
11 | UAE Exchange | 28 | Union (Transfer to Green Line) |
12 | DMCC (Jumeirah Lakes Towers) | 29 | Al Rigga |
13 | Sobha Realty (Dubai Marina) | 30 | City Centre Deira |
14 | Al Khail | 31 | GGICO |
15 | Dubai Internet City (TECOM) | 32 | Airport Terminal 1 |
16 | Mashreq | 33 | Airport Terminal 3 |
17 | Mall of the Emirates | 34 | Emirates |
35 | Centrepoint | ||
The Red Line is ideal for exploring Dubai’s tourist attractions, business hubs, and bustling city centre.
Dubai Metro Operating Hours in 2024
The Dubai Metro operates daily from:
- Saturday to Wednesday: 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight)
- Thursdays: 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM (next day)
- Fridays: 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM (next day)
What are the disadvantages of Dubai Metro?
While the Dubai Metro offers a multitude of benefits, there are a few limitations to consider:
- Limited reach: The Metro network doesn’t cover all areas of Dubai. You might need to use feeder buses or taxis for last-mile connectivity.
- Crowded during peak hours: The Metro can get crowded, especially during rush hour mornings and evenings.
- No luggage assistance: While you can carry luggage on the Metro, there’s no dedicated assistance for handling heavy bags.
How to Use Dubai Metro
Using the Dubai Metro is straightforward:
- Purchase a NOL Card: You’ll need a NOL card to pay for your Metro fare. NOL cards are rechargeable travel cards available at Metro stations and convenience stores.
- Plan your journey: Use the Dubai Metro map or RTA app to plan your route and identify the stations you need to get on and off at.
- Top up your NOL Card: Ensure your NOL card has enough credit or minimum of AED 20 to cover your journey. Top-up machines are available at all Metro stations.
- Enter the station: Locate the entry gates corresponding to your desired direction (towards Expo 2020 or Centrepoint on the Red Line, or towards Etisalat or Dubai Creek on the Green Line).
- Tap your NOL Card: Tap your NOL card on the reader at the entry gate. The gate will open, allowing you to enter the platform.
- Board the train: Wait for the train to arrive and board it through the designated doors.
- Exit the station: Upon reaching your destination station, tap your NOL card on the reader at the exit gate to exit the station.
Dubai Metro Tickets and Fares
The Dubai Metro utilizes a fare system based on zones travelled. The fare you pay depends on the number of zones you traverse during your journey. A detailed breakdown of fares and zone information is available on the RTA website
What is a NOL Card?
A NOL Card (NOL stands for “No Objection Letter”) is a rechargeable contactless smart card that serves as your key to Dubai’s public transportation network. With a NOL Card, you can seamlessly navigate the city using the Dubai Metro, buses, trams, and water taxis. It eliminates the hassle of carrying cash for individual fares and streamlines your travel experience. NOL Cards are reusable and can be topped up with credit as needed, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Dubai.
Types of NOL Card
There are several NOL Cards available to cater to different travel needs:
- Silver Card: This is the most widely used and versatile NOL Card. It’s rechargeable and can be used for all public transport modes in Dubai, including the Metro, buses, trams, and water taxis. The Silver Card is perfect for occasional riders or those who don’t require frequent travel.
- Gold Card: For those seeking a more premium travel experience, the Gold Card offers exclusive benefits. Gold Cardholders enjoy access to dedicated gold cabins in the first carriage of the Metro trains. These cabins are typically less crowded and provide a more comfortable journey. Additionally, Gold Cards can be used on all public transport modes in Dubai, similar to the Silver Card.
- Red Ticket: This prepaid NOL Card is a convenient option for tourists or short-term visitors. The Red Ticket comes preloaded with a set amount of credit and is valid for a single journey on any Dubai Metro line. Once the credit is depleted, the Red Ticket cannot be reused. It’s a good choice for those who only plan to use the Metro for a limited number of trips.
- Personalized NOL Card: This option allows you to register your NOL Card with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Registering your card offers benefits like online top-up capabilities, journey history tracking, and the ability to report a lost or stolen card. While not mandatory, registering your NOL Card provides an additional layer of security and convenience.
Dubai Metro Unveils Monthly and Long-Term Passes for Frequent Riders
While the Dubai Metro offers a pay-as-you-go system with NOL cards, frequent riders can benefit significantly from monthly passes. These passes provide unlimited travel within your chosen zone(s) for the entire validity period, offering a cost-effective solution for commutes throughout the month.
Monthly Pass Options:
The Dubai Metro caters to both Silver and Gold NOL Card users with monthly passes. These passes are available for durations of 30 days, 90 days, and even a full year (365 days).
Silver NOL Card:
- 30-Day Pass:
- 1 Zone: AED 140
- 2 Zones: AED 230
- All Zones: AED 350
- 90-Day Pass:
- 1 Zone: AED 330
- 2 Zones: AED 550
- All Zones: AED 830
- 365-Day Pass (Yearly Pass):
- 1 Zone: AED 1,060
- 2 Zones: AED 1,770
- All Zones: AED 2,670
Gold NOL Card:
- 30-Day Pass:
- 1 Zone: AED 280 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- 2 Zones: AED 460 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- All Zones: AED 700 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- 90-Day Pass:
- 1 Zone: AED 660 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- 2 Zones: AED 1,100 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- All Zones: AED 1,660 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- 365-Day Pass (Yearly Pass):
- 1 Zone: AED 2,120 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- 2 Zones: AED 3,540 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
- All Zones: AED 5,340 (offers access to Gold Cabins)
Choosing the Right Pass:
The most suitable monthly pass depends on your travel needs and frequency. Consider the number of zones you typically traverse during your commutes. If you plan on venturing across multiple zones throughout the month, opting for an all-zones pass might be the most cost-effective option.
Benefits of Monthly Passes:
- Convenience: Enjoy unlimited travel within your chosen zone(s) throughout the validity period.
- Cost Savings: Frequent riders can save money compared to using a pay-as-you-go NOL card.
- Budgeting: Monthly passes allow for easier budgeting of your travel expenses.
Dubai Metro Payment Method
The Dubai Metro operates exclusively on a cashless fare system. The primary payment method for using the Dubai Metro is through a NOL Card. You can purchase a NOL Card at any metro station or convenience store across the city. Once you have your NOL Card, simply top it up with credit at designated top-up machines located within metro stations.
There are no alternative payment methods currently available for the Dubai Metro. Using a NOL Card ensures a smooth and efficient boarding process, eliminating the need to fumble with cash at fare gates.
Dubai Metro Rules and Regulations
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) enforces a set of rules and regulations for using the Dubai Metro to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all passengers. Here are some rules to remember while using Metro in Dubai.
- Always have a valid NOL Card: A valid NOL Card with sufficient balance is mandatory for using the Dubai Metro. Attempting to enter without a valid card may result in fines.
- Maintain proper conduct: Disruptive behaviour, loud noise, or eating/drinking on the trains is strictly prohibited. Respect fellow passengers and maintain a peaceful environment.
- Give up seats for those in need: Pregnant women, elderly passengers, and people with disabilities should be offered seats whenever possible.
- Do not smoke: Smoking is strictly forbidden on all Metro premises, including stations and trains.
- Beware of fines: Violating Metro regulations can incur fines. Educate yourself with the all rules to save yourself from any penalties in metro.
- Carrying dangerous goods: The transportation of hazardous materials like explosives, flammable liquids, or sharp objects is strictly prohibited and can result in hefty fines and potential legal repercussions.
- Vandalism: Any act of vandalism or damage to Metro property will incur a fine and may involve legal action.
- Begging: Soliciting money or engaging in begging activities within the Metro network is not permitted.
- Using emergency exits without cause: Tampering with or misusing emergency exits is a serious offense and will be penalized.
Facilities at Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro offers a range of facilities to enhance passenger comfort and convenience:
- Air-conditioned stations and trains: All stations and trains are well-maintained and air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the year.
- Dedicated cabins for women and children: Certain cabins within the trains are reserved exclusively for women and children, providing a safe and secure space for these passengers.
- Lifts and escalators: All stations are equipped with elevators and escalators to ensure easy access for people with disabilities, families with strollers, and those carrying luggage.
- Customer service centers: Customer service centers are located within major stations to assist passengers with inquiries and provide information.
- Information displays: Real-time information displays are available at stations, providing updates on train arrival times and journey details.
- WiFi connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Metro network, allowing passengers to stay connected while on the move.
- Retail outlets: Select stations house convenience stores and retail outlets offering refreshments and travel essentials.
The availability of specific facilities may vary depending on the station. Always check with the RTA or station personnel for detailed information.
RTA Dubai Metro Zones
Fare in the Dubai Metro is based on zones. The number of zones you travel through determines the fare you pay. Dubai is divided into six RTA zones, with fares increasing as you travel through more zones.
Here’s a simplified breakdown:
- Zone 1: This zone encompasses the inner-city area, including major tourist destinations like Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina.
- Zone 2: This zone extends outwards from Zone 1, covering areas like Jabal Ali and Ibn Battuta Mall.
- Zone 3: Zone 3 encompasses further outlying areas, including Dubai Investment Park and Jumeirah Lakes Towers.
Zones 4, 5, and 6 represent areas further away from the city centre, typically used less frequently by tourists. A detailed zone map with corresponding stations is available on the RTA website.
Understanding the zone system is crucial for budgeting your travel expenses. Always check the zone map before your journey to estimate your fare.
How to Check Dubai Metro Card Balance
Here are some ways to check your NOL Card balance:
- Metro Station Top-up Machines: Most metro stations have designated top-up machines. Simply insert your NOL Card into the reader, and the screen will display your current balance.
- RTA Website: You can check your NOL Card balance online by visiting the RTA website. Register your NOL Card for online access and view your balance conveniently.
- RTA Dubai App: The RTA Dubai app provides a user-friendly platform to check your NOL Card balance. Download the app, register your card, and access your
Dubai Metro FAQs Answered:
How much does the metro cost in Dubai?
The cost of the Dubai Metro depends on the number of zones you travel through. Fares start at AED 3 (USD 0.80) for a single zone trip.
Does the Dubai Metro run 24 hours?
No, the Dubai Metro operates daily from Sunday to Wednesday from 5:50 AM to midnight. On Thursdays, hours are extended until 1:00 AM. Fridays see a later start time of 10:00 AM due to prayers, with service continuing until 1:00 AM.
How do I pay for the metro in Dubai?
The Dubai Metro uses a cashless fare system. You can pay for rides using a rechargeable NOL Card. NOL Cards can be purchased at metro stations and convenience stores across Dubai.
Can I use Dubai Metro without a card?
No, you cannot use the Dubai Metro without a NOL Card. The system is entirely cashless, and you’ll need a valid NOL Card with sufficient balance to tap in and out at stations.
Which is cheaper, Metro or bus in Dubai?
Generally, the Dubai Metro is cheaper than buses for longer journeys. However, for short trips within the same zone, buses might be comparable in price.
Is the Metro cheaper than a taxi in Dubai?
Yes, the Dubai Metro is significantly cheaper than taxis for most journeys. Taxis offer door-to-door service but can be expensive, especially during peak hours.
Can I use my phone as a NOL card?
Not directly. Currently, there’s no option to use your phone as a NOL Card. However, the RTA Dubai app allows you to check your NOL Card balance and plan your metro journeys.
Is Dubai Metro good for tourists?
Absolutely! The Dubai Metro is a safe, clean, and convenient way for tourists to navigate Dubai. It covers major tourist destinations and connects to other public transport options.
Can we carry luggage in Dubai Metro?
Yes, you can carry luggage on the Dubai Metro. There’s ample space on trains to accommodate suitcases and other travel bags.
How much does a NOL card cost?
A Silver NOL Card, the most common type, costs AED 25 (USD 7) which includes a refundable deposit of AED 5 (USD 1.35). The remaining AED 20 (USD 5.45) is your credit to use for travel.
Can I pay cash for Dubai Metro?
No, you cannot pay cash for the Dubai Metro. The entire system is cashless, so you’ll need a NOL Card with enough credit for your desired journey.
Is Dubai Metro driverless?
Yes, the Dubai Metro trains are fully automated and driverless. This ensures a smooth and efficient operation throughout the network.
What is the difference between a Gold and Silver NOL Card?
The main difference is access to dedicated cabins. Silver NOL Cards are the most common and allow travel on all cabins. Gold NOL Cards provide access to exclusive Gold Cabins in the first carriage of trains, offering a more spacious and premium travel experience.
How to get a Dubai Metro card?
You can purchase a NOL Card at any Dubai Metro station or convenience store across the city. Simply ask for a Silver NOL Card and choose the amount of credit you’d like to pre-load. You can also top up your NOL Card with additional credit at designated top-up machines within metro stations.