The Dubai Metro is a rapid transit rail network in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The metro has two main lines: the Red Line and the Green Line. The Route 2020 extension has also added a new line to the Red Line. The metro system is known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and modern infrastructure.
Lines and Stops
1. Red Line:
The Red Line runs from Rashidiya to Expo 2020, passing through the heart of Dubai. Key stops include:
- Rashidiya
- Emirates
- Airport Terminal 3
- Airport Terminal 1
- GGICO
- Deira City Centre
- Al Rigga
- Union (Interchange with Green Line)
- BurJuman (Interchange with Green Line)
- Al Karama
- Al Jafiliya
- World Trade Centre
- Emirates Towers
- Financial Centre
- Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall
- Business Bay
- Noor Bank
- First Abu Dhabi Bank
- Mall of the Emirates
- Sharaf DG
- Dubai Internet City
- Nakheel
- DAMAC Properties (Interchange with Marina Tram)
- DMCC
- Jabal Ali (Interchange with UAE Exchange)
- Ibn Battuta
- Energy
- Danube
- UAE Exchange
- Al Furjan
- Discovery Gardens
- The Gardens
- Jebel Ali Industrial
- Dubai Investment Park
- Expo 2020
2. Green Line:
The Green Line runs from Etisalat to Creek, providing vital connections within the city. Key stops include:
- Etisalat
- Al Qusais
- Dubai Airport Free Zone
- Al Nahda
- Stadium
- Al Qiyadah
- Abu Hail
- Abu Baker Al Siddique
- Salah Al-Din
- Union (Interchange with Red Line)
- Baniyas Square
- Gold Souq
- Al Ras
- Al Ghubaiba
- Sharaf DG
- Oud Metha
- Healthcare City
- Al Jadaf
- Creek
3. Route 2020 Extension:
The Route 2020 extension branches off from the Red Line at the Jabal Ali station and extends to the Expo 2020 site. Key stops include:
- Jabal Ali (Interchange with Red Line)
- The Gardens
- Discovery Gardens
- Al Furjan
- Jebel Ali Industrial
- Dubai Investment Park
- Expo 2020
Key Points of Interest
- Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station: This station serves the world’s tallest building and one of the largest shopping malls.
- Mall of the Emirates Station: Close to the Mall of the Emirates, which includes Ski Dubai.
- Deira City Centre Station: Near one of Dubai’s famous shopping destinations.
- Dubai International Airport Terminals 1 and 3: Direct access to the airport.
- Expo 2020 Station: The terminal station of Route 2020, serving the Expo 2020 site.
- Union and BurJuman Stations: Major interchange stations connecting the Red and Green Lines.
Additional Information
- Operating Hours: The Dubai Metro operates daily from 5 AM to midnight (timing may vary on Fridays and public holidays).
- Fares: The fare system is zone-based, with the cost varying depending on the number of zones traveled. There are multiple types of Nol Cards (Silver, Gold, Blue, and Red) used for fare payment.
- Facilities: The metro stations have modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, retail shops, and parking facilities at select stations.
- Accessibility: All metro stations are designed to be accessible for people with disabilities, featuring lifts, ramps, and designated seating areas.
The Dubai Metro continues to expand, and plans are underway to extend the network further, enhancing connectivity and convenience for residents and visitors alike.
Dubai Metro Rates 2024
The Dubai Metro fare system is based on a zone system, which depends on the number of zones traveled. Four Nol Card types are used for fare payment: silver, Gold, Blue (Personalized), and Red (Ticket).
Nol Cards and Ticket Types
Silver Nol Card:
- Initial cost: AED 25 (includes AED 19 balance)
- Best for regular commuters.
- Cost-effective for frequent travel.
Gold Nol Card:
- Initial cost: AED 25 (includes AED 19 balance)
- Allows access to the Gold Class cabin, which offers a more comfortable ride.
- Higher fare compared to Silver Nol Card.
Blue Nol Card (Personalized):
- Initial cost: AED 70 (includes AED 20 balance)
- Personal information linked to the card.
- Suitable for students, senior citizens, and people with disabilities (offers discounts).
Red Nol Ticket:
- Initial cost: AED 2 (additional fare for each trip)
- Valid for 90 days.
- Ideal for occasional travelers.
Fare Zones
Dubai is divided into seven fare zones, with the metro covering different combinations of these zones. Fares are calculated based on the number of zones crossed during a journey.
Fare Rates
Below are the typical fare rates as of 2024:
- Travel . Type Silver . Nol Card Gold . Nol Card . Red Nol . Ticket
- Within 1 zone, AED 3, AED 6, AED 4
- Two adjacent zones, AED 5, AED 10, AED 6
- More than two zones, AED 7.5, AED 15, AED 8.5
- Maximum fare (across all zones) AED 7.5, AED 15, AED 8.5
Dubai Metro Network Coverage
The Dubai Metro network includes two main lines (Red and Green) and the Route 2020 extension. Here are the details of each line:
Red Line:
- Total Length: Approximately 52.1 km
- Number of Stations: 35
- Key Stops: Rashidiya, Airport Terminal 3, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, Jabal Ali, Expo 2020
Green Line:
- Total Length: Approximately 22.5 km
- Number of Stations: 20
- Key Stops: Etisalat, Union (Interchange with Red Line), Al Ghubaiba, Creek
Route 2020 Extension:
- Total Length: Approximately 15 km
- Number of Stations: 7
- Key Stops: Jabal Ali, Dubai Investment Park, Expo 2020
Total Metro Network Length and Stations
- Total Length: Approximately 89.6 km (including extensions)
- Total Number of Stations: 62
Operating Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Additional Information
- Free Wi-Fi: Available at all stations and trains.
- Parking Facilities: Available at select stations (e.g., Rashidiya, Nakheel Harbour and Tower, Etisalat).
- Accessibility: All stations have elevators, ramps, and designated seating areas for people with disabilities.
Tips for Travelers
- Nol Card Balance: Always ensure you have sufficient balance on your Nol Card before starting your journey.
- Peak Hours: For a more comfortable ride, avoid traveling during peak hours (7:00 AM—9:00 AM and 5:00 PM—7:00 PM).
- Plan Ahead: Use the RTA app or website to plan your route and check for service updates or disruptions.
The Dubai Metro is a highly efficient and convenient mode of transportation. It provides extensive coverage across the city and ensures a smooth travel experience for residents and tourists alike.