Your Ultimate Guide to Dubai Metro: Map, Routes, Stations & Timing

Getting around Dubai is easy and quick with the Dubai Metro. It’s a fast and reliable way to travel across the city, connecting you to famous spots and neighborhoods. If you're visiting for the first time or you use the metro every day, knowing the routes and stations as well as how timing works can make your trips smoother. 

With the metro being such a convenient way to explore, it’s helpful to know how the system works, including the best times to travel and the key stations along the way. To help you navigate the system, we’ll walk you through the metro map, key stations, and timings, so you can explore Dubai with ease.

A table with essential facts about Dubai Metro

Exploring the Dubai Metro Map: Red and Green Lines

Source: RTA

A quick look at the Dubai Metro map gives you a clear idea of how well Dubai is connected by its two main lines: the Red Line and the Green Line, each serving different areas of the city. To access the full Dubai Metro map in PDF format, simply register with Kredium and we’ll send it your way.

These lines make traveling across Dubai quick, convenient, and easy, connecting popular destinations, business hubs, and residential neighborhoods. Tourists as well as local commuters should get to know the Dubai Metro map and understand the routes and their coverage to make the most of the metro system. If you're looking to dive deeper into the neighborhoods and areas surrounding Dubai Metro stations, make sure to check out our Area Guides on Kredium.

Red Line: Connecting Dubai’s Major Hubs

The Red Line is the longest and busiest of the two, running from UAE Exchange Station in the west to Rashidiya Station in the east. It passes through key areas like Downtown Dubai, home to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, as well as Dubai Marina, and Mall of the Emirates.

This line is ideal for those traveling to Dubai’s popular commercial and tourist destinations, making it the main choice for both tourists and daily commuters. Also, if you're traveling to or from Dubai International Airport, the Red Line is particularly convenient, with a dedicated stop at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

Dubai Metro red line stations (grouped by key hubs)

Green Line: Bridging the City’s Diverse Areas

The Green Line runs from Etisalat Station in the northeast to Dubai Creek Station in the southwest, passing through several diverse neighborhoods. It connects key areas like Deira, Al Ghusais, and Al Jaddaf, offering an essential link to the Red Line at Union Station and Burjuman Station. This line serves a more residential and traditional part of the city of Dubai, making it an important route for local commuters.

Dubai Metro green line stations (grouped by key areas)

Dubai Metro Routes: Popular Stations and Nearby Attractions

Dubai Metro stations are strategically located near some of the city's most famous attractions, making it easy to explore popular landmarks without the hassle of traffic or parking. You can visit iconic landmarks, enjoy the beach, or go shopping. The metro provides a convenient and fast way to get around, helping you avoid traffic and reach your destination in no time. Here’s a closer look at some of the key stations and the attractions you can easily access from them.

A table with popular stations and nearby attractions

Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station: Iconic Landmarks Nearby

The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station is one of the busiest stations on the Red Line, providing direct access to two of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is just a short walk away and offers breathtaking views from its observation decks.

Adjacent to it is the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers globally, with over 1,200 retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. You can also enjoy the Dubai Fountain show, a mesmerizing water and light display set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, making this station a must-visit for tourists and residents alike.

Dubai Marina Station: Beaches and Dining Hotspots

You can find Dubai Marina Station in the heart of one of Dubai’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The station gives you easy access to Dubai Marina, a bustling waterfront area lined with luxury yachts, restaurants, and high-rise buildings. Just a short walk away is JBR Beach, a popular destination for sunbathing, water sports, and vibrant beachside dining. 

Dubai Marina Mall, located nearby, offers a wide range of retail options, a cinema, and dining choices, making the station a great starting point for anyone looking to experience the city’s beach lifestyle and waterfront attractions.

Dubai Metro Timing and Train Frequency: What You Need to Know

Dubai Metro timing follows a consistent schedule, but timings can differ slightly depending on the day of the week. Whether you're commuting to work or heading out to explore the city, it's helpful to be aware of when the trains start and stop. A quick check of the operating hours can save you time and help you travel more efficiently. Additionally, if you’re planning your trip around prayer times, make sure to check out Prayer Time Dubai 2025: Everything You Need to Know for a complete guide to daily prayer schedules.

Dubai Metro Operating Hours Table

Dubai Metro Peak & Off-Peak Operating Times

Standard Operating Hours

On regular weekdays (Sunday to Thursday), the Dubai Metro starts its operations at 5:00 AM and runs until 12:00 AM (midnight). These hours are perfect for commuters and tourists alike, providing a reliable and frequent service throughout the day. The trains operate every 3-4 minutes during peak hours, providing quick and efficient travel across the city. Therefore, Dubai Metro timing is designed to accommodate both busy workdays and leisure travel, making it a convenient choice for everyone.

Holiday and Weekend Schedule

​During public holidays like New Year’s Eve, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, and UAE National Day, the Dubai Metro adjusts its operating hours to accommodate more passengers. For example, during the 2024 New Year’s period, the metro operated continuously from 5:00 AM on December 31 until 11:59 PM on January 1, ensuring everyone could enjoy the festivities without transportation worries.

On Fridays, the metro runs from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM (next day), while on Saturdays it operates from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight). Sundays have a slightly later start, with service beginning at 8:00 AM and running until midnight. These extended hours are ideal for weekend plans, allowing visitors and residents to attend events, shop, dine out, and explore the city with ease.

Ticketing Made Easy: Navigating Fare Options

Dubai Metro uses a smart card system called Nol, which makes paying for your trips simple and efficient. Fares are calculated based on the number of zones you travel through, and the card automatically deducts the right amount when you tap in and out. The system uses zones, so you only pay for how far you travel. This makes it easy to understand and manage your travel costs.

A table with different types of Nol cards, their price, validity and usage

Types of Nol Cards Available

Dubai Metro offers four different types of Nol cards, each designed to meet the needs of various users. The Red Ticket is a paper-based card that is ideal for short stays or occasional use, allowing up to 10 trips. For regular travelers, the Silver Card is a flexible option that provides quick access to all forms of public transport across the city. 

The Gold Card, which offers the same benefits as the Silver Card, also grants access to the premium Gold Class cabins, which come with a higher fare. Lastly, the Blue Card is a personalized card with added security features, best suited for residents who travel frequently. It can also be linked to monthly passes, making it a convenient choice for regular commuters.

How to Purchase and Reload Your Nol Card

You can buy Nol cards at any metro station, bus station, or authorized retail outlets. Ticket machines and customer service counters are available across the city. Reloading is just as easy—use a top-up machine, visit a metro station, or recharge online through the RTA website or the S’hail app. Most cards can be reloaded with credit or by purchasing travel passes, depending on your travel habits.

Train Layout and Classes: Choosing Your Comfort

When traveling on the Dubai Metro, passengers can choose between two main classes: Gold Class and Silver Class, each offering a different travel experience. The layout of the metro trains is designed to cater to different needs, whether you're looking for a premium, quiet space or a more budget-friendly and casual ride. Both classes provide comfort, but each offers unique features that cater to different preferences and budgets. Let’s explore both gold and silver class in more detail below.

A comparison table of Gold Class vs. Silver Class

Gold Class: A Premium Experience

Gold Class gives you a luxurious and quiet experience, perfect for those looking for extra comfort. Passengers in Gold Class enjoy spacious, premium seats with ample legroom and a more relaxed atmosphere. The cabins are dedicated solely to Gold Class passengers, so you can enjoy a quieter and more peaceful ride if you opt for Gold Class. 

Although the fares are higher compared to Silver Class, the experience is worth it for those who prefer a more refined travel environment. The quiet zone also makes it an ideal choice for business commuters or travelers looking to unwind in comfort during their journey.

Silver Class: Standard Travel for Daily Commuters

For everyday commuters and budget-conscious passengers, Silver Class provides a convenient and cost-effective way to travel. The seats are standard, designed to accommodate more passengers in a shared cabin. Silver Class is mixed with the general public, so the environment can be livelier and busier compared to Gold Class. 

The fare for Silver Class is more affordable, making it a practical option for those who use the metro regularly. While it may not offer the same level of exclusivity as Gold Class, Silver Class provides a reliable and comfortable way to get around the city.

Real-Time Updates and Mobile Apps

To keep up with the Dubai lifestyle and its pace, staying informed about public transport schedules and routes will help you plan a complete journey. The Dubai Metro and its surrounding transport services offer several mobile apps that provide real-time Dubai Metro updates when it comes to route planning, fare calculators, and more. These apps make it easier for commuters and tourists to navigate the city and access vital travel information at their fingertips.

A table comparing S’hail App, Dubai Metro App and other

S’hail App: Your Personal Travel Assistant

The S’hail App is one of the most comprehensive tools for public transport users in Dubai. It provides real-time train updates, helping passengers keep track of train timings and delays. The app also offers a route planner to guide you through different public transport options, including buses, taxis, and the metro, and even includes a fare calculator to estimate the cost of your trip. 

Available in multiple languages, the S’hail App is designed to make your commute as seamless as possible, making it a great choice for both residents and visitors. So, if you're wondering about the Dubai Metro timing today, you can easily find up-to-date schedules using this app.

Other Tools for Dubai Metro Updates

In addition to the S’hail App, you can also use the following two apps:

• Dubai Metro App

• Careem

Dubai Metro App is another excellent tool for staying informed about metro-related updates. Like S’hail, it provides real-time train updates, a route planner, and a fare calculator to assist with trip planning. However, unlike S’hail, the Dubai Metro App is primarily focused on metro services and it is great for those who specifically need metro-related information. Additionally, other apps such as Careem can also provide real-time updates for taxis and rideshares, although they do not offer metro-related information.

Dubai Metro Do’s, Don’ts & Fines

To keep the Dubai Metro safe and comfortable for everyone, there are some easy rules to follow. These include being polite, not eating or drinking on the train, and offering your seat to people who need it. If someone breaks the rules, they might have to pay a fine. It’s a good idea to know all the do’s and don’ts before you travel, so let's explore them in more detail below.

Keep Your Volume Down

One of the most common annoyances on public transport is loud music or phone conversations. In a busy and often packed metro, keeping your volume down—whether it’s your playlist or a conversation—ensures a more peaceful environment for all passengers. Keep personal chats private and consider using headphones for music or videos to avoid disturbing others.

Offer Your Seat to Those in Need

If you’re sitting and the metro is crowded, consider offering your seat to those who may need it more, such as the elderly, pregnant women, or people with disabilities. Small gestures of kindness like this can make someone’s day a lot easier, especially when the journey becomes longer due to delays.

Be Mindful of Personal Space

The Dubai Metro can get crowded, especially during rush hours or unexpected delays. Even when space is tight, it’s important to respect personal boundaries. Avoid leaning too close to others, and be conscious of your movements to ensure everyone has enough room to feel comfortable during the ride.

Stay Patient and Polite During Delays

It’s natural to get frustrated during delays, but staying patient and polite can make a huge difference for you and your fellow commuters. A simple smile or a polite “sorry” can turn a frustrating situation into a more bearable one. Keeping calm not only helps you but also creates a more pleasant atmosphere for others.

Public Transport Fines in Dubai (RTA Rules)

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) enforces strict rules to ensure safety, cleanliness, and respect for fellow passengers on all public transport. Below is a summary of fines based on the type and severity of the violation:

AED 100 Fines – Minor Violations

• Resting feet on seats

• Eating or drinking in prohibited areas

• Bringing animals (except guide dogs)

• Sitting in ladies-only or restricted sections

• Entering non-passenger or restricted areas

• Disturbing or inconveniencing others

• Misusing escalators or lifts

• Climbing into or jumping onto transport vehicles

• Opening doors or trying to enter/exit while in motion

• Carrying items that may cause discomfort or danger to others

Note: Parking in Metro-designated areas beyond the allowed time is fined at AED 100 per day, up to a maximum of AED 1,000.

AED 200 Fines – Fare and Conduct Violations

• Spitting or littering

• Smoking in stations or transport vehicles

• Using public transport without paying fare

• Not showing a valid Nol card when requested

• Using someone else's Nol card or an expired/invalid one

• Selling Nol cards or promoting products without permission

• Ignoring instructions from RTA inspectors or obstructing their duties

• Not following posted rules or signs

Additional Rules & Passenger Guidelines

Dubai Metro has added some new rules to help keep everyone safe and comfortable. These include things like the ban on e-scooters, what you’re not allowed to bring, and how to act while riding. It’s a good idea to know these rules before you take the metro.

A table with additional fines for different types of violations

E-Scooter Ban

Since March 1, 2024, e-scooters are no longer allowed on Dubai Metro or Tram services. The RTA introduced this rule to improve safety and reduce risks to passengers.

What You Can’t Bring Onboard

To keep everyone safe, certain items are banned from metro facilities and trains. These include:

• Weapons, sharp tools, explosives, and other hazardous materials

• Alcoholic beverages

• Food and drinks inside the trains
  

Carrying any of these may result in fines or being denied entry.

Accessibility Features: Catering to All Passengers

The Dubai Metro is designed to be inclusive, offering plenty of features for a smooth and comfortable experience for all passengers, including those with special needs or reduced mobility. From designated seating to easily accessible platforms, the metro system is committed to providing a convenient and accommodating environment for everyone. You can travel with a stroller or a wheelchair, and if you require assistance, the metro stations and trains have accessible facilities to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

Designated Areas for People with Special Needs

Dubai Metro stations have clearly marked, designated areas for passengers with special needs. These areas are specifically designed to provide extra space and comfort for people with disabilities, elderly passengers, and others requiring assistance. On the trains, these designated areas are conveniently located near the doors so there is easy access and a safe place to sit. The metro also provides priority seating for passengers with special needs so they have a comfortable space during their journey.

Elevators and Convenient Access Points

There are elevators and ramps in the Dubai Metro station to make it easy for everyone to access the trains. These features help people with wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility issues move around safely and comfortably. The elevators are roomy, and there are wide doors and clear signs to guide passengers to the right place without confusion.

Additional Accessibility Features

Dubai Metro stations have special paths on the floor to help blind or visually impaired people find their way. There are also beeping sounds and flashing lights to help deaf passengers know when train doors are opening or closing, and every station has wheelchair-friendly bathrooms and parking spots close to the entrance.

Safety Measures: Your Well-being on the Move

You can be sure that the Dubai Metro takes passenger safety seriously. From trained security staff to modern technology, multiple safety features are in place to protect everyone. In addition, the system is regularly inspected and updated to meet international safety standards. So, whether you're commuting daily or visiting for the first time, you can feel safe and supported throughout your journey. Let’s cover all the safety measures in more detail below.

Security Presence and Surveillance

Security officers are present at most stations and onboard trains to help maintain order and assist passengers. In addition, CCTV cameras are installed across all stations and inside trains to monitor activities and ensure safety 24/7. These cameras help quickly detect and respond to any problems.

Emergency Protocols and Procedures

Each train and station has clear instructions for what to do in case of an emergency. Emergency buttons and intercoms are available so passengers can contact staff right away. Trained staff are always ready to guide people during unexpected situations, and regular drills are done to keep safety systems working well.

FAQs About Dubai Metro

If you are visiting Dubai soon or just want to know your way around Dubai Metro, this section will answer some of the most common questions. If you're looking for information on ticket prices, travel times, or the best routes, we’ve got you covered—check out the questions below for all the details to make your journey hassle-free.

1. What time does the Dubai Metro close?

The Dubai Metro usually runs until 12:00 AM (midnight) from Sunday to Thursday and until 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. However, these operating hours may change during public holidays or special events.

2. How to go to Dubai Creek Harbour by Metro?

To get to Dubai Creek Harbour by metro, take the Green Line and get off at Creek Metro Station. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to the Dubai Creek Harbour area.

3. What time does Dubai Metro start?

The Dubai Metro usually starts operating at 5:00 AM from Sunday to Thursday, and at 1:00 PM on Fridays. These hours may change during public holidays or special events.

4. How to reach Global Village Dubai by Metro?

To reach Global Village by metro, take the Red Line and get off at Al Fahidi Metro Station. From there, you can either take Bus F29 or a taxi to Global Village, with the bus ride taking about 25–30 minutes.

5. When is Dubai Metro the most crowded?

Dubai Metro is typically busiest on weekdays during morning hours from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and in the evening from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, when most people commute to and from work or school. Stations in key business areas like the Financial Centre, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, and Business Bay are especially crowded during these times.

Conclusion

Nevertheless, the Dubai Metro is a simple and reliable way to get around the city. Whether you're going to work, visiting popular places, or just exploring, the metro makes travel quick, easy, and affordable. With clear routes, regular train times, easy-to-use stations, and helpful tools like apps and Nol cards, it’s made for everyone.

If you're thinking about living near one of the metro stations or want to explore great property options in Dubai, our real estate agents at Kredium can help. Check out our property page or talk to an expert to find the perfect home close to all the metro action.

Photo Credits: Pexels