The fully automated Dubai Metro presents an efficient way to explore the city. There are only two main lines - red and green - making it easy to plan your trip. Here are your top questions about the Dubai Metro.
How can I use the 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 nearly 30 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.
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 stops?
The Dubai Metro system currently consists of two lines – Red and Green.
The Red line starts from Rashidiya station (close to Dubai International airport - DXB) to the UAE Exchange station in the Jebel Ali area of Dubai. This line essentially travels along the city's main highway Sheikh Zayed Road, with stops at key attractions and neighbourhoods, such as Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, Emirates Towers, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Mall of the Emirates.
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 the Al Fahidi Historical District, Deira and gold and spice souks.
What are the timings of Dubai Metro?
The Dubai Metro runs seven days a week, and metro stations are open from:
Saturday to Wednesday: 5am to midnight
Thursday: 5am to 1am
Friday: 10am to 1am
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.
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