Dubai Metro: Timings, Fares, Routes, and Regulations

Dubai Metro is a vital part of the city’s public transport system, launched in September 2009. It connects Jebel Ali in the south to Rashidiya near Dubai International Airport in the north, covering 74.6 kilometers with 47 stations on the Red and Green lines. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the Dubai Metro, including timings, fares, routes, stations, and travel rules.

Dubai Metro Timings

Knowing the operating hours of Dubai Metro can help you plan your journeys better:

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

During rush hours, trains arrive approximately every three minutes and 45 seconds. Off-peak, the wait can be up to seven minutes. Note that schedules may be extended during public holidays and major events like Eid and New Year’s Eve to manage the increased number of passengers.

Dubai Metro Fares

Dubai is divided into seven public transport zones, which affect the fare you pay. The cost depends on the type of Nol card you use:

• Within 1 Zone:
  • Silver: Dhs3
  • Gold: Dhs6
  • Personal: Dhs3
  • Red: Dhs4
• Within 2 Adjacent Zones:
  • Silver: Dhs5
  • Gold: Dhs10
  • Personal: Dhs5
  • Red: Dhs6
• More Than 2 Zones:
  • Silver: Dhs7.5
  • Gold: Dhs15
  • Personal: Dhs7.5
  • Red: Dhs8.5

Students, social affairs beneficiaries, senior citizens, and residents with a Personal Card get a 50% discount. Children and people of determination can travel for free.

Dubai Metro Stations

The Dubai Metro system includes the Red and Green Lines, each serving different parts of the city.

Green Line

The Green Line serves northern Dubai, from Etisalat Metro Station in Al Qusais to Creek Metro Station. It covers areas like Al Twar, Deira, Bur Dubai, Oud Metha, and Al Jaddaf.

Red Line

The Red Line stretches from UAE Exchange in Jebel Ali to Rashidiya, passing through Garhoud, Deira, Bur Dubai, Karama, Trade Centre, DIFC, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Al Quoz, Al Barsha, Barsha Heights, Dubai Marina, and JLT.

Types of Nol Cards

To travel on the Dubai Metro, you need a Nol card. Here are the available options:

• Gold Card: Dhs25, with Dhs19 balance. Valid for five years and offers access to Gold Class seats.
• Silver Card: Dhs25, with Dhs19 balance. Valid for five years.
• Personal Card: Dhs70, with Dhs20 balance. Allows balance recovery if lost or stolen.
• Red Card: Dhs2. Valid for 90 days and suitable for a maximum of ten journeys or five daily passes.
• Student Card: Dhs70, with Dhs20 balance. Valid for one year with 50% off on bus, tram, and metro services.

Dubai Metro Rules and Fines

To ensure safety and comfort, Dubai Metro has several rules:

• Suitcases: Passengers can bring one large suitcase (81cm x 58cm x 30cm) and one small suitcase (55cm x 38cm x 20cm).
• E-Scooters: These are banned on the Metro.
• Children: Kids under eight must be accompanied by an adult. Those aged 8-11 need a parental letter to travel alone. Over 12s can travel unaccompanied.

Various fines are imposed for violations:

• Dhs100 fines: For minor infractions like putting feet on seats, eating or drinking in prohibited areas, and carrying animals (except guide dogs).
• Dhs200 fines: For spitting, littering, and fare evasion.
• Dhs300 fines: For sleeping in passenger shelters.
• Dhs500 fines: For using counterfeit cards and carrying alcoholic beverages.
• Dhs1,000 fines: For carrying hazardous items.
• Dhs2,000 fines: For vandalism or misuse of safety devices.

Future Expansion: The Blue Line

Dubai Metro is set to expand with the introduction of the Blue Line, expected to start operations in 2029. This new line will feature 14 stations, including three interchange stations, and will stretch 30 kilometers with both underground and above-ground tracks.

Dubai Metro is an efficient and convenient way to travel across the city. With clear information on timings, fares, and rules, passengers can enjoy a smooth travel experience. The upcoming Blue Line will further enhance connectivity, making Dubai Metro a critical part of the city’s infrastructure. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding how to navigate the Metro will make your travels in Dubai much easier.

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