Dubai Metro Red Line: Route, Stations, Timings, Fares & Complete Travel Guide
Dubai Metro Red Line 2026: Route, Stations, Timings, Fare & Travel Guide | Explore the Dubai Metro Red Line with our complete 2026 guide covering stations, route, timings, fares, Nol Card, airport connections, attractions, interchange stations and travel tips.
🚇 Dubai Metro Red Line – Complete Guide
The Dubai Metro Red Line is one of the most useful public transport routes for visitors, residents and tourists travelling across Dubai. It connects Centrepoint in the east with the major commercial, residential and tourist areas of Dubai before continuing toward Life Pharmacy or EXPO 2020.
The Red Line provides direct access to important destinations including Dubai International Airport, Deira, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Business Bay, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Ibn Battuta and Expo City Dubai.
The line is fully automated and driverless, and it connects with the Green Line at Union and BurJuman.
For travellers arriving at Dubai International Airport, the Red Line is particularly useful because it serves Airport Terminal 1 and Airport Terminal 3.
📌 Dubai Metro Red Line Quick Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Metro Line | Red Line |
| Line Colour | 🔴 Red |
| Starting Station | Centrepoint – R11 |
| Main Route | Centrepoint → EXPO 2020 / Life Pharmacy |
| Airport Stations | Airport Terminal 1 & Airport Terminal 3 |
| Interchange with Green Line | Union & BurJuman |
| Payment | Nol Card / Nol Red Ticket |
| Operating Days | Every day |
| Standard Metro | Fully automated / driverless |
| Gold Class | Available |
| Main Tourist Areas | Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Marina, Mall of the Emirates, Expo City |
| Official Operator | Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) |
RTA identifies the Red Line as running between Centrepoint (R11) and EXPO 2020 (R76) / Life Pharmacy (R42).
🗺️ Dubai Metro Red Line Route
The Red Line generally follows Dubai’s major north-south/east-west travel corridor, passing through central Dubai and along Sheikh Zayed Road before reaching the southern areas.
Main direction
Centrepoint → Emirates → Airport Terminal 3 → Airport Terminal 1 → Al Garhoud → City Centre Deira → Al Rigga → Union → BurJuman → ADCB → max → World Trade Center → Emirates Towers → Financial Centre → Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall → Business Bay → ONPASSIVE → Equiti → Mall of the Emirates → InsuranceMarket → Dubai Internet City → Al Fardan Exchange → Sobha Realty → DMCC → National Paints → Ibn Battuta → Energy → Danube → Life Pharmacy
From the southern section, the route also serves:
National Paints → The Gardens → Discovery Gardens → Al Furjan → Jumeirah Golf Estates → Dubai Investment Park → EXPO 2020
RTA’s current metro map lists these Red Line stations and station codes.
🚉 Dubai Metro Red Line Stations – Complete List
Below is the current Red Line station list published by RTA.
Centrepoint to Central Dubai
| No. | Station | Code |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Centrepoint | R11 |
| 2 | Emirates | R12 |
| 3 | Airport Terminal 3 | R13 |
| 4 | Airport Terminal 1 | R14 |
| 5 | Al Garhoud | R15 |
| 6 | City Centre Deira | R16 |
| 7 | Al Rigga | R17 |
| 8 | Union | R18 |
| 9 | BurJuman | R19 |
| 10 | ADCB | R20 |
| 11 | max | R21 |
| 12 | World Trade Center | R22 |
| 13 | Emirates Towers | R23 |
| 14 | Financial Centre | R24 |
| 15 | Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall | R25 |
| 16 | Business Bay | R26 |
Central Dubai to Southern Dubai
| No. | Station | Code |
|---|---|---|
| 17 | ONPASSIVE | R29 |
| 18 | Equiti | R31 |
| 19 | Mall of the Emirates | R32 |
| 20 | InsuranceMarket | R33 |
| 21 | Dubai Internet City | R34 |
| 22 | Al Fardan Exchange | R35 |
| 23 | Sobha Realty | R36 |
| 24 | DMCC | R37 |
| 25 | National Paints | R38 |
| 26 | Ibn Battuta | R39 |
| 27 | Energy | R40 |
| 28 | Danube | R41 |
| 29 | Life Pharmacy | R42 |
Southern Branch – Expo City Dubai
| No. | Station | Code |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | The Gardens | R70 |
| 31 | Discovery Gardens | R71 |
| 32 | Al Furjan | R72 |
| 33 | Jumeirah Golf Estates | R73 |
| 34 | Dubai Investment Park | R74 |
| 35 | EXPO 2020 | R76 |
RTA’s current map confirms the station names and codes, including the separate R70–R76 stations on the southern branch.
Important: The Red Line has different branches in the southern section. Always check the destination shown on the train and station platform before boarding.
✈️ Dubai Airport to City by Red Line
The Dubai Metro Red Line is one of the easiest ways to travel from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to central Dubai.
The Red Line serves:
- Airport Terminal 1 – R14
- Airport Terminal 3 – R13
From the airport, passengers can travel toward major destinations such as:
Deira → Union → BurJuman → Downtown Dubai → Business Bay → Mall of the Emirates → Dubai Marina
Dubai Airports confirms that the Red Line connects directly with Terminals 1 and 3.
🧳 Dubai Metro luggage
Travellers can generally take up to two pieces of luggage, including one larger suitcase and one hand/carry-on bag. Dubai’s official tourism guidance specifies maximum luggage dimensions for the larger and carry-on pieces.
🕐 Dubai Metro Red Line Timings 2026
The regular Dubai Metro station opening hours currently published by RTA are:
| Day | Metro Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Tuesday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Wednesday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Thursday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Friday | 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM next day |
| Saturday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
These are the current general Metro station hours published by RTA. Special events, public holidays and Ramadan schedules can have different operating hours.
⏰ Simple timetable for travellers
Monday–Thursday
5:00 AM → Metro service begins
12:00 AM → Metro service ends
Friday
5:00 AM → Metro service begins
1:00 AM → Service ends the following day
Saturday
5:00 AM → Metro service begins
12:00 AM → Service ends
Sunday
8:00 AM → Metro service begins
12:00 AM → Service ends
For an exact journey, passengers should check the RTA journey planner or S’hail app because individual station arrival times vary by direction and service pattern. RTA notes that working hours can change for holidays and special events.
🚆 How Often Does the Red Line Metro Run?
Train frequency changes according to time of day and passenger demand.
During busy periods, trains generally arrive more frequently than during quieter periods.
For travellers, the best practice is to:
- Check the station’s electronic display.
- Follow the destination displayed on the train.
- Check whether the train is going toward Centrepoint, EXPO 2020, or Life Pharmacy.
- Allow extra time during morning and evening rush hours.
RTA’s official service information recommends planning journeys outside peak periods when possible to reduce congestion.
Riyadh Metro Line 6 (Purple Line) 2026: Full Station List, Map, Fares & Timings
💳 Dubai Metro Red Line Fare
Dubai Metro fares are calculated according to the number of zones crossed, rather than simply the number of stations travelled.
Dubai is divided into seven public transport zones. Metro, tram and bus journeys can be combined under the Nol system, subject to the applicable transfer rules.
Standard Nol fares
| Zones Travelled | Silver Nol | Gold Nol | Nol Red Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Within 1 Zone | AED 3 | AED 6 | AED 4 |
| 2 Adjacent Zones | AED 5 | AED 10 | AED 6 |
| More Than 2 Zones | AED 7.50 | AED 15 | AED 8.50 |
Gold Class costs more because it provides access to the Gold Class cabin.
The current RTA fare table confirms these fares.
👶 Children: Children aged 5 years and below can travel free under the applicable Nol fare rules.
🎫 Which Nol Card Should Tourists Use?
For most visitors, there are two convenient choices:
🩶 Nol Silver Card: The Silver Nol Card is a practical option for tourists and regular travellers.
It can be used across Dubai’s public transport network, including Metro, buses and other RTA transport services.
🔴 Nol Red Ticket: The Nol Red Ticket is useful for visitors who only need occasional public transport journeys.
RTA states that the Red Ticket allows passengers to pay according to the trip and applicable zones.
🟨 Gold Class: Passengers who prefer the dedicated Gold Class cabin can choose a Gold Nol option or applicable Gold Red Ticket.
🔄 Red Line and Green Line Interchange Stations
Passengers can transfer between the Dubai Metro Red and Green Lines at two important stations:
Union – R18 / G20: Union is one of the main interchange stations between the Red and Green Lines.
BurJuman – R19 / G26: BurJuman is another major interchange station.
RTA officially identifies Union and BurJuman as the Red/Green Line interchange stations.
🏙️ Best Dubai Attractions Along the Red Line
The Red Line is particularly useful for tourists because it passes close to several major attractions and shopping destinations.
🏙️ Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall
Get off at: Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall – R25
This is the most convenient Metro station for visiting Downtown Dubai, including:
- Burj Khalifa
- Dubai Mall
- Dubai Fountain area
- Downtown Dubai
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
🛍️ Mall of the Emirates
Get off at: Mall of the Emirates – R32
This station provides easy access to Mall of the Emirates and the surrounding Al Barsha area.
🌆 Dubai Marina
For Dubai Marina and JBR, useful Red Line stations include:
Sobha Realty – R36 and DMCC – R37
Passengers can also connect with the Dubai Tram network from appropriate interchange locations.
🛍️ Ibn Battuta Mall
Get off at: Ibn Battuta – R39
The station provides convenient access to Ibn Battuta Mall.
🏢 Dubai Internet City
Get off at: Dubai Internet City – R34
This is useful for Dubai Internet City and nearby business districts.
🌍 Expo City Dubai
For Expo City Dubai, travel toward: EXPO 2020 – R76
The station is the Red Line’s southern terminus for the Expo branch.
🚌 Connecting Metro With Bus
Dubai Metro is integrated with other RTA public transport services.
A traveller can use Metro and then continue by bus using the same Nol system, subject to the transfer rules.
RTA states that transfers between Metro and buses can be treated as a single journey when the applicable transfer conditions are met. The current rules allow up to 30 minutes between modes for the relevant transfer.
📱 How to Travel on Dubai Metro Red Line
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1 – Get a Nol Card: Purchase a suitable Nol card or ticket.
Step 2 – Add Balance: Make sure you have sufficient balance before entering. RTA currently states that a minimum balance of AED 7.50 is required to use the Metro.
Step 3 – Tap In: Tap your Nol Card at the entrance gate.
Step 4 – Check the Direction: Look at the electronic display and confirm the destination.
Step 5 – Board the Correct Train: Check whether the train is travelling toward:
- Centrepoint
- EXPO 2020
- Life Pharmacy
Step 6 – Get Off at Your Station: Listen for the station announcement and check the electronic displays.
Step 7 – Tap Out: Tap your Nol Card at the exit gate.
Your fare is automatically calculated according to the applicable zones.
⚠️ Important Dubai Metro Red Line Travel Tips
1. Check the destination before boarding
The Red Line has southern branches, so don’t simply board the first Red Line train.
2. Keep your Nol Card separate
Avoid keeping multiple contactless cards together when tapping at the gate.
3. Don’t forget to tap out
Your journey needs both entry and exit taps.
4. Travel outside peak hours
If possible, avoid the busiest periods for a more comfortable journey.
5. Keep your luggage manageable
Dubai Metro has specific luggage rules. Travellers should check the latest RTA requirements before travelling from the airport.
6. Follow cabin rules
Dubai Metro has designated areas and passenger rules. Fines can apply for violations.
7. Check holiday schedules
Metro operating hours may change during public holidays and special events.
🚨 Dubai Metro Rules and Fines
Dubai Metro has strict passenger rules.
Some violations can result in fines, including:
- Travelling without paying the correct fare
- Using an invalid or expired card
- Entering restricted areas
- Misusing emergency equipment
- Improper behaviour inside Metro facilities
RTA publishes the applicable fines and passenger regulations.
♿ Accessibility
Dubai Metro is designed to accommodate passengers with accessibility needs.
RTA provides services for People of Determination, and the Metro connects with a wider public transport network.
📍 Best Red Line Stations for Tourists
| Destination | Recommended Station |
|---|---|
| Dubai Airport Terminal 3 | Airport Terminal 3 |
| Dubai Airport Terminal 1 | Airport Terminal 1 |
| Deira | City Centre Deira |
| Downtown Dubai | Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall |
| Burj Khalifa | Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall |
| Dubai Mall | Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall |
| Business Bay | Business Bay |
| Mall of the Emirates | Mall of the Emirates |
| Dubai Internet City | Dubai Internet City |
| Dubai Marina | Sobha Realty / DMCC |
| Ibn Battuta Mall | Ibn Battuta |
| Discovery Gardens | Discovery Gardens |
| Al Furjan | Al Furjan |
| Expo City Dubai | EXPO 2020 |
- مترو دبي — Dubai Metro
- الخط الأحمر — Red Line
- محطات مترو دبي — Dubai Metro stations
- خريطة مترو دبي — Dubai Metro map
- مواعيد مترو دبي — Dubai Metro timings
- أسعار مترو دبي — Dubai Metro fares
- تذكرة مترو دبي — Dubai Metro ticket
- بطاقة نول — Nol Card
- محطة مركز بوينت — Centrepoint Station
- مطار دبي — Dubai Airport
- برج خليفة — Burj Khalifa
- دبي مول — Dubai Mall
- مول الإمارات — Mall of the Emirates
- إكسبو 2020 — Expo 2020
- دبي مارينا — Dubai Marina
مترو دبي الخط الأحمر، محطات الخط الأحمر، خريطة مترو دبي، أسعار مترو دبي، مواعيد مترو دبي، تذكرة مترو دبي، بطاقة نول، مترو دبي من المطار، محطة برج خليفة، محطة دبي مول، مترو دبي إلى إكسبو 2020
❓ Dubai Metro Red Line FAQs
What is the Dubai Metro Red Line?
The Red Line is one of Dubai Metro’s two operating lines. It connects Centrepoint with the southern parts of Dubai and has branches serving Life Pharmacy and EXPO 2020.
How many stations are on the Dubai Metro Red Line?
RTA’s current network map lists 36 Red Line stations, including the southern branch stations.
Does the Red Line go to Dubai Airport?
Yes. The Red Line serves Dubai International Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
Does Dubai Metro Red Line go to Burj Khalifa?
Yes. Get off at Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall – R25.
Which Metro station is for Dubai Mall?
The station is Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall – R25.
Which Metro station is for Mall of the Emirates?
Use Mall of the Emirates – R32.
Which Red Line station is closest to Dubai Marina?
Sobha Realty – R36 and DMCC – R37 are important Red Line stations for the Dubai Marina/JLT area.
Can I travel from Dubai Airport to Downtown Dubai by Metro?
Yes. Take the Red Line from Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 and travel toward central Dubai. For Downtown Dubai, get off at Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall – R25.
How much does Dubai Metro cost?
The fare depends on the number of zones crossed. Current standard Silver Nol fares are AED 3, AED 5 or AED 7.50, depending on the journey.
Is Nol Card required for Dubai Metro?
You need an accepted RTA fare medium, such as a Nol Card or Nol Red Ticket, to use the Metro.
What time does Dubai Metro start?
Regular Metro station hours begin at 5:00 AM Monday–Saturday and 8:00 AM Sunday, although special schedules may apply.
What time does Dubai Metro close?
Regular hours end at midnight Monday–Thursday and Saturday, and at 1:00 AM the following day on Friday. Sunday service ends at midnight.
Can I use Dubai Metro from the airport with luggage?
Yes. Dubai Airports provides direct Metro access from Terminals 1 and 3, and passengers can carry permitted luggage subject to the Metro’s luggage rules.
Where can I change from Red Line to Green Line?
You can interchange between the Red and Green Lines at Union or BurJuman.
Does the Red Line go to Expo?
Yes. The Red Line serves EXPO 2020 – R76, providing Metro access to Expo City Dubai.
Does the Red Line go to Life Pharmacy?
Yes. Life Pharmacy – R42 is a Red Line station and one of the southern endpoints.
🧭 Dubai Metro Red Line Travel Planner
From Dubai Airport
Airport Terminal 1 / Terminal 3 → Red Line → Downtown / Business Bay / Mall of the Emirates / Dubai Marina
From Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall → Red Line → Business Bay → Mall of the Emirates → Dubai Marina → Ibn Battuta → Southern Dubai
From Dubai Marina
Sobha Realty / DMCC → Red Line → Downtown Dubai → Deira → Dubai Airport
From Expo City
EXPO 2020 → Red Line → Jumeirah Golf Estates → Al Furjan → Discovery Gardens → Ibn Battuta → Dubai Marina → Downtown Dubai
🔗 Useful Dubai Metro Resources
For the most accurate travel information, check the official Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Metro map, timetable and fare information before travelling.
- Dubai Metro & Tram Station Map
- Dubai Metro Timetable
- Nol Card Fares
- RTA Journey Planner / S’hail
RTA’s official Metro map provides the current station codes and network information, while its timetable page provides the latest regular operating hours.
The Dubai Metro Red Line is one of the best ways to explore Dubai without dealing with road traffic. It connects the airport, historic Deira, Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Business Bay, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Marina, Ibn Battuta and Expo City.
Before starting your journey, check the RTA timetable and journey planner, confirm the train’s destination, and make sure your Nol Card has sufficient balance.
For tourists, the most important Red Line stations to remember are Airport Terminal 1, Airport Terminal 3, Union, BurJuman, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Sobha Realty, DMCC, Ibn Battuta and EXPO 2020.