Essential Information
Everything you need to know about Dubai Metro
Wed 21 February 2024
Getting around the city is quick and easy thanks to its advanced rail system. Read on for fare prices, operating hours, maps of Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, and more.
Getting around the city is quick and easy thanks to its advanced rail system. Read on for fare prices, operating hours, maps of Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, and more.
Spanning nearly 90kms, the fully-automated Dubai Metro presents an efficient way to explore the city. There are two main lines – Red (which branches out into two routes at the Jabal Ali interchange) and Green – making it easy to plan your journey. Here are your top questions about Dubai Metro, answered.
How can I use Dubai Metro?
You need to buy single, return and day-pass tickets or a cashless smart card known as Nol on the metro. There are several metro stations dotted around the city so, for easy navigation, use the Roads and Transport Authority's helpful online journey planner.
If you've just arrived in Dubai, you'll be pleased to know there are two stops on the Red line at Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Simply look for the signs to the metro once you've collected your baggage, and pay for a ticket directly at the station.
You can carry two pieces of luggage with you on a Dubai Metro train – one large suitcase (no bigger than 81cm x 58cm x 30cm) and one carry-on bag (no bigger than 55cm x 38 cm x 20cm).
What are Nol cards?
Similar to London's Oyster card or New York City's Metrocard, the Nol card is a rechargeable ticket that you can top up and gives you cheaper fares.
Nol cards can also be used to pay for fares on other forms of public transportation in the city, including buses, trams and taxis.
There are several ticket options available, although tourists usually opt for the Silver Nol card that can be preloaded with up to AED1,000 in credit – ideal if you plan on regularly using public transport during your stay in Dubai.
Where do I buy Dubai Metro tickets?
You can purchase a one-time train ticket or Nol card at all Dubai Metro stations, bus stations, and at supermarkets such as Carrefour, Spinneys and Waitrose.
To top-up your Nol card, use the vending machines or make your way to the ticket booths at each metro station.
How are the fares calculated?
The metro system is divided into seven zones across the city, and fares are calculated based on the number of zones passed.
What are the main Dubai Metro stations and zones?
The Dubai Metro system currently consists of two lines – Red and Green.
The Red line starts from Centrepoint (formerly Rashidiya) station, close to Dubai International Airport. This line essentially travels along the city's main highway, Sheikh Zayed Road, with stops at key attractions and neighbourhoods, such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Business Bay, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (DMCC station), Dubai Marina (Sobha Realty station) and Mall of the Emirates.
At Jabal Ali station, the Red line branches out in two directions – finishing at either Expo 2020 (located at Expo City Dubai) or UAE Exchange, just past the Jebel Ali Industrial Area. A 2024 improvement to the line means that passengers no longer need to switch trains at Jebel Ali, as there are now direct routes between Centrepoint and Expo 2020, and Centrepoint and UAE Exchange.
The Green line travels from the Etisalat station in the Al Twar area to the historic Dubai Creek. On this line, you can visit cultural highlights such as Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Deira and the Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
What are the operating hours of Dubai Metro?
Dubai Metro runs seven days a week, and metro stations are open from:
- Monday to Thursday: 5am to 12am (midnight)
- Friday: 5am to 1am (next day)
- Saturday: 5am to 12am (midnight)
- Sunday: 8am to 12am (midnight)
Tram stations are open from:
- Monday to Saturday: 6am to 1am (next day)
- Sunday: 9am to 1am (next day)
Keep in mind that the first and last train times vary for each station, and metro operating hours can also change during public holidays.
Trains run frequently on both lines – usually every four minutes during peak hours, and seven minutes at off-peak times.
What is Gold Class?
There are three types of cabins in Dubai Metro trains – Gold, Silver and the Women and Children's cabins. The Gold Class cabins are spacious with plush leather seats and panoramic views. If you want to travel in these cabins, you must purchase the class-specific ticket. These can be easily purchased from the ticket booths.
The other areas of the train are dedicated to either Silver (or standard) commuters, or for women and children.
Do I have to use the women-only cabins?
Dubai Metro trains provide dedicated cabins for women and children, featuring extra space for push-chairs. They are clearly identified with pink signs along station tracks and inside cabins.
There's no obligation for female passengers to travel in these sections of the train. They're simply offered as an alternative for additional comfort.
Is Dubai Metro accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, people of determination will find convenient lift access available on all metro station levels, and dedicated spaces for wheelchair users on all trains. For more information on accessible travel, click here.
Any additional advice for first-time commuters?
- Trains and stations can be crowded during peak hours, so avoid these times if possible: 6am to 8:30am and 5pm to 7pm
- If travelling during peak hours, it's worth paying extra to access the Gold Class cabins
- Eating or drinking is not allowed in in the Dubai Metro cabins
- Dubai Metro stations are often named after nearby landmarks, neighbourhoods and even financial institutions. Ask your hotel concierge to recommend the right stops
- There's free Wi-Fi on trains, so you can stay connected throughout your journey