Dubai Metro Guide 2026: Routes, Timings, Fares, and Travel Tips

Dubai Metro is the backbone of the city’s public transport system, offering a fast, clean, and affordable way to explore Dubai. Whether you’re a tourist visiting world-famous attractions or a resident commuting daily, the metro connects major districts, malls, business centers, and landmarks with world-class efficiency.

This complete Dubai Metro 2026 guide covers updated routes, timings, fares, stations, maps, and travel tips so you can plan your journey stress-free.

Overview of Dubai Metro

Launched in 2009, Dubai Metro made history as one of the world’s longest fully automated driverless metro networks. Managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA Dubai), it currently operates across two major lines (Red and Green), along with the Route 2020 extension, and continues to expand with new projects leading into Expo 2026 and beyond.

Key highlights:

• Fully automated, air-conditioned trains

• Separate cabins for women & children, and Gold Class (first class)

• Free Wi-Fi inside trains and stations

• Fully integrated with buses, taxis, trams, and the Palm Monorail

Dubai Metro Lines and Routes

Red Line

• Runs from Rashidiya Station (near Dubai International Airport) to UAE Exchange Station (Jebel Ali).

• Covers iconic stops including Deira City Centre, BurJuman, Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, and Expo 2020 station.

• Total journey time: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes end-to-end.

Green Line

• Operates between Etisalat Metro Station (Al Qusais) and Creek Metro Station (Al Jaddaf).

• Covers historical and cultural areas like Union, Al Fahidi, Al Ghubaiba, and Dubai Healthcare City.

• Journey time: approx. 40 minutes end-to-end.

Route 2020 Extension

• A 15 km extension branching from the Red Line at Nakheel Harbour & Tower to Expo 2020 Station.

• Built for Expo 2020, it continues serving Dubai South, a fast-growing business and logistics hub.

Dubai Metro Stations and Map

Dubai Metro has over 55 operational stations across its two lines.

Key Interchanges

• Union Station – connects Red & Green Lines

• BurJuman Station – another major interchange

Metro Connections with Tram & Monorail

• Dubai Marina Station connects with Dubai Tram

• Dubai Tram links to Palm Monorail at Palm Jumeirah

Interactive maps are available at all stations and online via the RTA Dubai app.

Dubai Metro Timings 2026

• Saturday to Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

• Thursday: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)

• Friday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)

Frequency:

• Peak hours: every 3–4 minutes

• Off-peak hours: every 6–8 minutes

Dubai Metro Fares and Nol Cards

Ticket Prices & Zones

Dubai Metro operates on a zone-based fare system:

• Short trip (within 1 zone): from AED 3

• 2 zones: from AED 5

• All zones: from AED 7.5

Types of Nol Cards

• Red Ticket (single journey, tourists)

• Silver Nol Card (regular travelers)

• Gold Nol Card (premium class)

• Blue Nol Card (personalized with extra benefits)

Nol Cards can also be used on buses, trams, and water buses.

Facilities and Accessibility on Dubai Metro

Women & Children Section

Dedicated cabins ensure safe and comfortable travel.

Accessibility for People of Determination

• Elevators, ramps, tactile guidance paths

• Priority seating for wheelchair users

Parking Facilities

Free and paid parking available at select stations like Rashidiya, Etisalat, and Jebel Ali.

Passenger Statistics and Metro Growth

• Over 650,000 passengers daily (2026 figures projected)

• More than 2 billion cumulative riders since launch in 2009

• Continuous expansion planned under Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan

Travel Tips for Dubai Metro Riders

• Avoid peak office hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) for smoother rides.

• Keep your Nol card topped up to avoid fines.

• Eating, drinking, or chewing gum is strictly prohibited inside trains.

• Fines for violations can range from AED 100–500.

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Conclusion

The Dubai Metro in 2026 continues to be one of the most efficient and affordable public transport systems in the world. With extensive routes, affordable fares, modern facilities, and seamless connections to trams and buses, it’s the smartest way to travel around the city.

So, get your Dubai visa now, hop on the Metro, and experience the best of Dubai with ease.