Dubai Metro Guide – Fares, Map and Tips for Tourists

Dubai, the crown jewel of the UAE, is renowned for its futuristic skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and world-class infrastructure. Among its most impressive innovations is the Dubai Metro — a modern, efficient, and affordable public transport system that makes getting around the city easy for both residents and tourists.

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai and want to explore the city comfortably without relying on taxis, the Dubai Metro is your best friend. In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know — fares, route maps, Nol cards, timings, stations near tourist attractions, and pro tips to make your journey smooth.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Dubai Metro

2. Why Tourists Love the Metro

3. Dubai Metro Map Overview

4. Metro Lines Explained

5. Timings and Frequency

6. Nol Card System – Types and Prices

7. Dubai Metro Fares (2025 Updated)

8. Key Metro Stations for Tourists

9. Rules, Etiquette, and Safety

10. Tips for Tourists Using Dubai Metro

11. Final Thoughts

1. Introduction to Dubai Metro

Launched in 2009, the Dubai Metro is one of the most advanced driverless metro systems in the world. Operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), it currently features two main lines — Red Line and Green Line — connecting major areas of the city, including airports, malls, beaches, and historical districts.

Fun Fact: Dubai Metro holds a Guinness World Record for the longest driverless metro network.

2. Why Tourists Love the Metro

Tourists choose the Dubai Metro for several compelling reasons:

• Affordable: Much cheaper than taxis or car rentals.

• Air-Conditioned Comfort: All coaches are clean and climate-controlled.

• Fast & Efficient: Avoids traffic and gets you to places quickly.

• Easy to Use: Signage in English and Arabic; staff is helpful.

• Safety: Secure environment with clear rules and surveillance.

• Direct Access to Attractions: Many stations are close to Dubai’s top spots.

3. Dubai Metro Map Overview

Dubai Metro’s map is well-organized and color-coded:

• 🟥 Red Line: Runs from Centrepoint (Rashidiya) to Expo 2020, covering Sheikh Zayed Road and key hubs like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Business Bay, and Jumeirah Lakes Towers.

• 🟩 Green Line: Starts from Etisalat and ends at Creek, passing through Deira, Bur Dubai, and Al Fahidi — perfect for exploring Dubai’s cultural side.

You can download the latest map from the RTA official website or use apps like S’hail or Google Maps for live directions.

4. Metro Lines Explained

Red Line Highlights:

• Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 & 3)

• Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

• Mall of the Emirates

• Dubai Marina

• Expo 2020 Site

Green Line Highlights:

• Al Ghubaiba (Water Taxi/Ferry Area)

• Al Fahidi (Old Dubai)

• Gold Souk & Spice Souk

• Dubai Creek

5. Timings and Frequency

Metro Operating Hours (2025):

• Monday to Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)

• Friday: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (Next Day)

• Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Frequency: Every 2.5 – 5 minutes during peak hours.

6. Nol Card System – Types and Prices

To travel on the Dubai Metro, you need a Nol Card — a smart card used across all public transport modes in Dubai (Metro, Bus, Tram, Water Bus).

Types of Nol Cards for Tourists:

7. Dubai Metro Fares (As of 2025)

Fares are calculated based on the number of zones you travel through. Dubai is divided into 7 fare zones.

Sample Fare Table (Silver Nol Card):

Note: Red Tickets have slightly higher fares than Silver Cards.

For exact fares, use the RTA fare calculator.

8. Key Metro Stations for Tourists

Here are some must-know stations and the attractions nearby:

• Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall (Red Line): Access the tallest building in the world and one of the largest malls.

• Mall of the Emirates (Red Line): Famous for Ski Dubai.

• Dubai Marina (Red Line): Waterfront dining and Marina Walk.

• Union (Red/Green Line Interchange): Close to Deira markets.

• Al Fahidi (Green Line): Explore Al Bastakiya, museums, and cultural spots.

• Gold Souk (Green Line): Shop for gold, spices, and souvenirs.

9. Rules, Etiquette, and Safety

Dubai Metro is well-maintained, and passengers are expected to follow rules strictly. Violations may result in fines.

✅ Allowed:

• Eating before boarding

• Luggage (1 large + 1 small per person)

• Photography (non-commercial)

❌ Not Allowed:

• Eating or drinking on the train (Fine: AED 100)

• Sitting in areas reserved for women/children (Fine: AED 100)

• Smoking (Fine: AED 200)

• Spitting or littering (Fine: AED 500+)

Ladies & Children Cabin: Reserved space for comfort and privacy.

Gold Class Cabin: Premium seats with more space and view.

10. Tips for Tourists Using Dubai Metro

Here are some expert tips for first-time users:

1. Buy a Silver Nol Card if staying more than 1 day.

2. Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM & 5-7 PM) to skip the crowd.

3. Use Metro Link Buses from stations to reach nearby destinations.

4. Download RTA’s S’hail App for route planning and live updates.

5. Always check last train timing — some stations close early.

6. Stay on the right side of the escalator to let others pass.

7. Don’t forget to check in and out by tapping your Nol card.

8. Use Gold Class only if you have a Gold Nol Card — it’s strictly monitored.

11. Final Thoughts

The Dubai Metro is a game-changer for anyone visiting the city. Whether you’re here for shopping, sightseeing, or a layover, the metro gives you fast, affordable, and reliable access to the best that Dubai has to offer. With a little preparation, you can travel like a local and make the most of your stay.

So grab your Nol Card, hop on the train, and enjoy the comfort and convenience of the Dubai Metro!