Taking the Dubai Metro? Be careful where you sit, and stay alert, as sleeping can cost you fines. Passengers who block movement or sit in non-passenger areas may face penalties, as the RTA urges everyone to travel courteously and help keep the Metro running smoothly.
Thank you for contacting us, and apologies for any inconvenience. Kindly note that the inspectors are constantly checking Dubai Metro, noting that fines are issued to non-committed passengers. Also, kindly note that you can report such incidents to the metro station staff and…
— RTA (@rta_dubai) October 13, 2025
Need for the Crackdown?
Dubai’s metro is sleek, fast, and crowded—especially during peak hours. With around 900,000 daily riders, even minor disruptions can quickly escalate into chaos.
To keep things running smoothly, the RTA has recently updated its fines schedule, ensuring that improper behavior—especially the kind we might dismiss as “just a nap” or “resting on the floor”—is no longer overlooked.
The RTA now firmly enforces the rules you might have shrugged off before.
What’s the Fine for Floor-Sitting or Sleeping?
| Violation | Minimum Fine | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sitting or standing in non-passenger areas (e.g. between cabins, on the floor) | Dh100 | These are areas not meant for regular passenger seating. |
| Sleeping where prohibited (in cabins or shelters) | Dh300 | You can’t shut your eyes just anywhere. |
| Causing disturbances or blocking movement | Dh100 | That includes blocking aisles or doors. |
A few extra rules to note:
- Eating, drinking, or chewing gum on the train: Dh100 (you may do so in stations, not onboard).
- Entering cabins you’re not allowed (e.g., men going into women and children’s section, or standard ticket into Gold Class): Dh100
- Damaging or vandalising equipment: Dh2,000 (serious offense)
Fines range from Dh100 for “less serious” offenses up to Dh2,000 for egregious violations.
How the Rules Are Enforced
Inspectors regularly patrol trains and stations. They’re empowered to issue fines on the spot.
To pay a fine, you can:
- Pay on the spot if the inspector issues it immediately.
- Use the RTA’s online fines portal—just enter your fine number, Emirates ID, or passport.
- Go to an RTA Customer Happiness Centre.
You can also appeal a fine by submitting the required documents via RTA’s complaints/transport grievance process within a certain period.
Essential Metro Etiquette
| Etiquette Rule | Wait for your turn. A smooth flow keeps the Metro stress-free. |
|---|---|
| Move along the cabin | Don’t linger near doors. Give everyone space to board and exit easily. |
| Let others exit first | Wait your turn. A smooth flow keeps the Metro stress-free. |
| Respect personal space | No leaning or crowding. Everyone deserves a comfortable ride. |
| Avoid non-passenger areas | Don’t sit on the floor or stand between carriages. Stick to proper seats. |
| Keep gangways clear | Blocked aisles frustrate passengers and can delay the train. |
| Follow signage | Observe “No Sitting Here” and “Women & Children” areas. |
| Mind your noise | Keep calls and music quiet. Nobody wants a loud commute. |
| No eating, drinking, or chewing gum | Save snacks for stations. Onboard is a no-go. |
| Stay awake in the right places | Napping outside seats can get you fined. Use designated seating. |
| Keep it clean | Dispose of trash properly; avoid spills or litter. |
| Respect equipment | Don’t damage doors, handles, or other facilities. |
| Use your own ticket or card | Invalid or shared cards may result in fines. |
| Give priority to those who need it | Elderly, pregnant, and differently-abled passengers should get first seats. |
| Stay clear of emergency doors | Always keep doors unobstructed for safety. |
| Be mindful during peak hours | Avoid lingering near doors or congesting corridors. |
These aren’t just polite habits—they’re part of the rules now.
If you’re new in Dubai or riding the Metro daily, you don’t want to get a nasty surprise fine. But beyond that, these rules keep the system clean, safe, and predictable. They protect passengers, prevent delays, and maintain order. So following them isn’t just about avoiding penalty—it’s about being part of a smoother, smarter ride.
Next time you hop on the Metro and feel tempted to rest on the floor or catch a quick nap by the doors—don’t. It’s no longer harmless. Stick to proper seats. Stay alert. Ride respectfully.
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