The Ultimate Guide to Dubai Metro: Routes, Timings and Fares Explained

Since launching in September 2009, the Dubai Metro has transformed the way residents and visitors move around the city. Stretching from Jebel Ali in the south to Centrepoint (formerly Rashidiya) near Dubai International Airport in the north, it connects key business districts, residential neighbourhoods and tourist hotspots along a fast, air-conditioned network.

Today, the system spans 89.6km, with 55 stations across two lines — Red and Green — and a third Blue Line currently in development. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to the airport or exploring the city, here’s everything you need to know.

Dubai Metro overview

The Metro operates as a fully automated, driverless mass rapid transit system. All cabins offer free Wi-Fi, and journeys are paid for using nol cards, Dubai’s rechargeable smart travel cards (similar to London’s Oyster card or New York’s MetroCard).

A new Blue Line is scheduled to open in 2029, adding 14 stations over 30km, including three interchange stations. Around half the route will run underground, with the remainder above ground.

Dubai Metro timings (all lines)

Regular operating hours are:

• Monday to Thursday: 5am – midnight
• Friday: 5am – 1am (next day)
• Saturday: 5am – midnight
• Sunday: 8am – midnight

During peak hours, trains typically arrive every 3 minutes and 45 seconds. Off-peak wait times can extend to around seven minutes.

Timings may be extended during major public holidays such as Eid and New Year’s Eve.

Dubai Metro fares and zones

Dubai is divided into seven transport zones, covering Metro, buses, trams and water buses. Your fare depends on how many zones you cross in a single journey.

A key benefit is the 30-minute transfer rule. If you switch between Metro, bus or tram within 30 minutes of tapping out, it counts as one journey (maximum of three transfers).

Standard adult fares

Within 1 zone

• Silver/Blue: Dhs3
• Gold: Dhs6
• Red Ticket: Dhs4

Within 2 adjacent zones

• Silver/Blue: Dhs5
• Gold: Dhs10
• Red Ticket: Dhs6

More than 2 zones

• Silver/Blue: Dhs7.5
• Gold: Dhs15
• Red Ticket: Dhs8.5

Students, senior Emiratis and social affairs beneficiaries receive 50% discounts with a registered Blue (personal) card. People of determination and children travel free.

Dubai Metro nol cards explained

There are several nol card options:

Gold Card

• Dhs25 (includes Dhs19 balance)
• Access to Gold Class cabins

Silver Card

• Dhs25 (includes Dhs19 balance)
• Standard travel option

Blue (Personal) Card

• Dhs70 (includes Dhs20 balance)
• Balance protection if lost
• Required for concession fares

Red Ticket

• Dhs2
• Valid for 10 trips or five daily passes
• Ideal for tourists or short-term visitors

Student Card

• Dhs70
• 50% off public transport fares

All cards can be topped up at Metro stations, kiosks and ticket machines.

Dubai Metro routes and key stations

The network is split into two main lines.

Red Line

Running along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Red Line connects the airport to major business and residential districts before heading south to Jebel Ali.

Key stations include:

• Centrepoint (near Dubai International Airport)
• BurJuman (interchange with Green Line)
• Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall
• Business Bay
• Mall of the Emirates
• DMCC (Dubai Marina/JLT)
• Ibn Battuta
• Life Pharmacy (Jebel Ali)

The Expo 2020 Route branches off toward:

• The Gardens
• Discovery Gardens
• Al Furjan
• Jumeirah Golf Estates
• Dubai Investment Park
• Expo 2020

Green Line

Serving older districts of Dubai, the Green Line runs from Etisalat in Al Qusais to Creek via Deira and Bur Dubai.

Major stations include:

• Al Qusais
• Union (interchange with Red Line)
• Gold Souq
• Al Ghubaiba
• BurJuman (Red Line connection)
• Dubai Healthcare City
• Creek

All stations offer lift access and clear signage. Note that some stations are branded after corporate sponsors and may not reflect the exact neighbourhood name.

Dubai Metro rules

Luggage:
Passengers may carry two suitcases — one large (max 81cm x 58cm x 30cm) and one small (max 55cm x 38cm x 20cm). Bags must be placed in designated luggage areas.

E-scooters:
Foldable, seatless e-scooters are permitted if fully folded and within size limits (120cm x 70cm x 40cm).

Children travelling alone:

• Under 8: Must be accompanied by an adult
• Ages 8–11: Require parental permission letter
• 12+: May travel alone

Dubai Metro fines

Fines are strictly enforced.

Dhs100 fines include:

• Putting feet on seats
• Eating or drinking where prohibited
• Sitting in ladies-only cabins
• Misusing escalators

Dhs200 fines include:

• Travelling without a valid nol card
• Using someone else’s card
• Smoking or littering

Dhs500 fine: Carrying alcohol
Dhs1,000 fine: Carrying hazardous materials
Dhs2,000 fine: Vandalism or misuse of safety equipment

Why use the Dubai Metro?

Fast, clean and air-conditioned, the Dubai Metro remains one of the easiest ways to navigate the city. It avoids traffic congestion, connects major attractions and integrates smoothly with buses and trams.

Whether you’re commuting daily or exploring Dubai for the first time, understanding the timings, fares and rules will ensure a smooth journey every time.

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