Need to Know About Dubai Metro, Yeah that really shows what kind a smart modern connected city Dubai wants for itself. Metro’s pretty sleek automated and really does change peoples’ urban commute wouldn’t you say, Dubai Metro, First-time tourist; daily commute; cheap, comfy way through highlights.
So if you’re planning to use the Metro anytime soon, here’s a complete guide — written just like a travel blogger — to help you understand everything about Dubai Metro in a simple and friendly way.
Spanning nearly 90 kilometres, the fully-automated Dubai Metro presents an efficient way to explore the city. There are two main lines – Red (which branches out into two routes at the Jabal Ali interchange) and Green – making it easy to plan your journey. Here are your top questions about Dubai Metro, answered.
How can I use Dubai Metro?
You need to buy single, return and day-pass tickets or a cashless smart card known as the Nol card to use the metro. There are several metro stations dotted around the city so, for easy navigation, use the Roads and Transport Authority’s helpful online journey planner.
If you’ve just arrived in Dubai, you’ll be pleased to know there are two stops on the Red line at Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Simply look for the signs to the metro once you’ve collected your baggage, and pay for a ticket directly at the station.
You can carry two pieces of luggage with you on a Dubai Metro train – one large suitcase (no bigger than 81cm x 58cm x 30cm) and one carry-on bag (no bigger than 55cm x 38 cm x 20cm).
What are Nol cards?
Similar to London’s Oyster card or New York City’s Metrocard, the Nol card is a rechargeable ticket that you can top up and gives you cheaper fares. Nol cards can also be used to pay for fares on other forms of public transportation in the city, including buses, trams and taxis.
There are several ticket options available, although tourists usually opt for the Silver Nol card that can be preloaded with up to AED1,000 in credit – ideal if you plan on regularly using public transport during your stay in Dubai.
The Nol card can also be used to pay for various other goods and services in Dubai. This includes supermarkets (Carrefour, Zoom, Circle K, Lulu, Aswaaq, All Day and Al Maya), pharmacies (Aster, Medcom and Medicina), restaurants (Paavo’s Pizza, Cravia, Mister Baker Gloria Jean’s Coffees, Carter’s English Gastro Pub, Burger King, 800 Degrees Pizza and London Dairy) and other places such as IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park, EPPCO and ENOC petrol stations, Tasjeel government services, Medcare clinic and 050 Telecom.
Meanwhile, the Emaar Nol card is available for AED55 and offers savings of up to 40 per cent at various attractions including At The Top, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink and KidZania, plus 30 per cent off at more than 50 restaurants in Dubai Mall.
Where do I buy Dubai Metro tickets?
You can purchase a one-time train ticket or Nol card at all Dubai Metro stations, bus stations, and at supermarkets such as Carrefour, Spinneys and Waitrose.
To top-up your Nol card, use the vending machines or make your way to the ticket booths at each metro station. You can also download and use the Nol Pay app for top-ups and other purchases.
How are the fares calculated?
The metro system is divided into seven zones across the city, and fares are calculated based on the number of zones passed.
What are the main Dubai Metro stations and zones?
The Dubai Metro system currently consists of two lines – Red and Green.
The Red line starts from Centrepoint (formerly Rashidiya) station, close to Dubai International Airport. This line essentially travels along the city’s main highway, Sheikh Zayed Road, with stops at key attractions and neighbourhoods, such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Business Bay, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (DMCC station), Dubai Marina (Sobha Realty station) and Mall of the Emirates.
At Jabal Ali station, the Red line branches out in two directions – finishing at either Expo 2020 (located at Expo City Dubai) or Life Pharmacy, just past the Jebel Ali Industrial Area. A 2024 improvement to the line means that passengers no longer need to switch trains at Jebel Ali, as there are now direct routes between Centrepoint and Expo 2020, and Centrepoint and Life Pharmacy.
The Green line travels from the Etisalat station in the Al Twar area to the historic Dubai Creek. On this line, you can visit cultural highlights such as Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Deira and the Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
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