Dubai Metro Red Line – Route, Timings & Key Stations

Dubai Metro Red Line is one of the most convenient, modern, and reliable modes of public transportation in the city, making it a must-know guide for anyone visiting or living in Dubai. UAE Explorer brings you this comprehensive guide covering everything from Dubai Metro Red Line map, station lists, route details, timings, fares, and travel tips to ensure you navigate the city like a local. Whether you are a tourist planning to explore iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, or Dubai Marina, or a resident commuting to work, the Red Line is your ultimate travel companion.

The Dubai Red Line runs along the major corridor of Sheikh Zayed Road, connecting north to south and linking key districts, airports, and business hubs. With its seamless connections, comfortable cabins, and efficient timings, this metro line has transformed urban travel in Dubai.

Dubai Metro Red Line Map

The Dubai Metro Red Line map is designed for clarity and ease of travel. Stretching along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Red Line connects key districts from Rashidiya in the north to Jebel Ali in the south, including the Route 2020 extension to Expo 2020.

Travelers can use the map to:

• Plan journeys efficiently

• Identify station-to-station distances

• Locate nearby tourist attractions

• Check airport transfer options

Updated maps include both Red and Green Line connections, highlighting major interchange stations like BurJuman and Union.

Dubai Metro Red Line Route

The Red Line metro route Dubai covers the most important areas of the city, providing access to commercial, residential, and tourist hotspots. It begins at Rashidiya, passes through Dubai International Airport, and stretches southwards along Sheikh Zayed Road, ending at Jebel Ali. The Route 2020 extension continues to Expo 2020, connecting newer residential and commercial zones.

Key route highlights:

Union Metro Station Red Line

Business Bay Metro Station Red Line

ADCB Metro Station Red Line

BurJuman Metro Station Red Line

Mall of the Emirates Metro Station Red Line

Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station Red Line

DMCC Jumeirah Lakes Towers Metro Station Red Line

GGICO / Al Garhoud Metro Station Red Line

Al Rigga Metro Station Red Line

Emirates Towers Metro Station Red Line

Danube / Jebel Ali Industrial Metro Station Red Line

Dubai Investment Park Metro Station Red Line

Dubai Internet City Metro Station Red Line

UAE Exchange / Jebel Ali Metro Station Red Line

Ibn Battuta Metro Station Red Line

Al Khail / Nakheel Metro Station Red Line

Expo 2020 Metro Station Red Line

Deira City Center Metro Station Red Line

Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station Red Line

Energy Metro Station Red Line

Financial Centre Metro Station Red Line

Mashreq / Sharaf DG Metro Station Red Line

Equity Metro Station Red Line

Max Fashion / Al Jafilia Metro Station Red Line

Emirates Metro Station Red Line

World Trade Centre Metro Station Red Line

Al Furjan Metro Station Red Line

Al Safa / Noor Bank Metro Station Red Line

The Gardens Metro Station Red Line

Discovery Gardens Metro Station Red Line

Centerpoint / Rashidiya Metro Station Red Line

Nakheel Harbour & Tower / Jebel Ali Metro Station Red Line

This route is ideal for tourists and daily commuters alike, providing fast and efficient connectivity across Dubai.

Dubai Metro Red Line Stations

The Dubai Metro Red Line stations are strategically located for accessibility and convenience. There are 35+ stations, including the Route 2020 extension. Each station offers modern facilities such as elevators, escalators, ticketing services, and accessibility features for differently-abled passengers.

Major stations and their highlights:

1. Rashidiya – North terminal and airport connectivity

2. Airport Terminal 3 – Ideal for tourists arriving in Dubai

3. Airport Terminal 1 – Seamless airport transfer

4. GGICO – Business and residential access

5. Deira City Centre – Shopping and local attractions

6. Al Rigga – Historical areas and shopping

7. Union – Interchange with Green Line

8. BurJuman – Interchange with Green Line, commercial hub

9. ADCB – Business district access

10. Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall – Access to iconic landmarks

11. Mall of the Emirates – Shopping, entertainment, Ski Dubai

12. DMCC – Dubai Marina, JBR Beach access

13. Jebel Ali – Southern terminal

14. Expo 2020 – Route 2020 extension, major exhibition site

The Dubai Metro Red Line stations list provides a complete travel framework for both tourists and residents.

Dubai Metro Red Line Station Map

For a visual guide, the Dubai Metro Red Line station map shows all stations, connecting lines, and interchange points. It is essential for planning trips, especially for first-time travelers. Updated maps also include the new Red Line Metro map Dubai, highlighting the Route 2020 extension stations like The Gardens, Discovery Gardens, Al Furjan, Jumeirah Golf Estates, and Dubai Investment Park.

Travel Duration Between Major Stations

Tourists and commuters often ask about travel times between key stations. Here’s a quick reference:

Dubai Metro Red Line Timings

The Dubai Metro Red Line timings are designed to serve both daily commuters and tourists efficiently.

Standard timings:

• Monday – Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Friday: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM

• Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Train frequency:

• Peak hours: Every 2.5 – 3 minutes

• Off-peak hours: Every 5 – 7 minutes

These timings ensure that passengers can plan their trips with ease, whether they are heading to work, shopping, or sightseeing.

Dubai Metro Red Line Fares and Nol Cards

The Red Line Metro Dubai offers affordable fares with multiple ticketing options through Nol Cards:

Silver Card Fares:

• 1 Zone: AED 3

• 2 Zones: AED 5

• More than 2 Zones: AED 7.5

Gold Class: Premium cabins at almost double fare
Red Ticket: Single or return tickets for tourists

Fares are designed to be cost-effective for all passengers while providing options for comfort and convenience.

Red Line and Green Line Metro Dubai

The Red and Green Line metro Dubai map shows the complete network, with two main interchange stations:

• Union Station – Connects Red & Green Line

• BurJuman Station – Connects Red & Green Line

Red Line: Covers modern Dubai, airports, business districts, and Route 2020
Green Line: Serves Old Dubai, Deira, Bur Dubai, and historic attractions

Passengers can easily transfer between lines for complete city coverage.

Accessibility and Facilities

Dubai Metro Red Line is highly accessible and passenger-friendly:

• Wheelchair-friendly gates

• Tactile paths for visually impaired

• Elevators and escalators

• Priority seating

• Air-conditioned cabins

• Free Wi-Fi on select stations

These facilities make the Dubai Red Metro line convenient for tourists, families, and daily commuters.

Parking and Connectivity

Several Red Line stations offer Park & Ride facilities, such as Centrepoint and Jebel Ali, ideal for passengers who prefer to drive partway and take the metro. Taxi and bus connections are available at most stations, along with e-bike and e-scooter options, ensuring first- and last-mile connectivity.

Travel Tips for Dubai Metro Red Line

1. Keep your Nol Card topped up.

2. Avoid peak hours if possible.

3. Respect Women & Children cabins.

4. Use Gold Class for long journeys or extra comfort.

5. Metro is ideal for airport transfers—fast and budget-friendly.

6. Follow station rules to avoid fines.

Key Attractions Along the Dubai Metro Red Line

• Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Station: Iconic tower, fountains, shopping

• Mall of the Emirates Station: Ski Dubai, luxury shopping

• DMCC Station (Dubai Marina): Marina Walk, JBR Beach, restaurants

• Expo 2020 Station: Global pavilions, exhibitions

The Red Line metro route Dubai is the fastest way to access these attractions.

Rules and Safety

Dubai Metro is strictly monitored for passenger safety:

• No eating or drinking inside trains

• Women & Children cabin enforcement

• Luggage must be in designated areas

• CCTV monitoring at all stations

Fines range from AED 100–500 for minor violations; crossing tracks can result in AED 2000 fine.

Dubai Metro Red Line vs Green Line

FAQs About Dubai Metro Red Line

1. Can I reach Dubai International Airport via the Red Line?

Yes! The Dubai Metro Red Line directly connects to both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport. It’s a fast and cost-effective way for travelers to reach the airport from central locations like Burj Khalifa or Deira without relying on taxis or ride-hailing services.

2. How many stations are there along the Red Line?

The Red Line has over 35 stations, including the Route 2020 extension that leads to Expo 2020. Key stops include Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, DMCC (Dubai Marina), and Expo 2020. All stations are equipped with modern amenities, including escalators, elevators, and accessible facilities for passengers with disabilities.

3. What are the operating hours of the Red Line?

The Red Line runs daily, with slightly different timings based on weekdays or weekends:

• Monday to Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Friday: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM

• Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  Trains arrive frequently—every 2–3 minutes during rush hours and every 5–7 minutes at other times.

4. Can visitors use the Nol Red Ticket for travel?

Absolutely! The Nol Red Ticket is ideal for tourists who need a short-term or single-journey ticket. It’s easy to purchase at any Red Line station and can be recharged if required. This ticket provides an efficient and affordable way to explore Dubai without committing to a full Nol Card.

5. Is the Red Line safe for solo travelers or first-time users?

Yes, the Red Line is very safe. Every station and train is monitored by CCTV, and staff are present throughout the system. Additionally, there are Women & Children cabins, making it comfortable for solo travelers, including women and families, to travel at any hour.

6. Am I allowed to carry luggage on the Red Line?

Yes, passengers can bring luggage, shopping bags, or even larger suitcases. Most trains have dedicated storage areas, and stations provide elevators, ramps, and wide walkways, making it convenient for airport travelers and those carrying bulky items.

7. How much does a trip on the Red Line cost?

The fare depends on the number of zones traveled:

• 1 Zone: AED 3

• 2 Zones: AED 5

• 3+ Zones: AED 7.5
  Gold Class tickets offer premium seating and air-conditioned comfort at a slightly higher price. Nol Cards are reusable and can be topped up at all stations, offering flexibility and convenience for regular commuters.

8. Can I transfer from the Red Line to the Green Line?

Yes. Passengers can easily switch between the Red and Green Lines at Union Station or BurJuman Station. These interchange stations are clearly marked with signage, allowing travelers to seamlessly explore both modern areas along the Red Line and historical or traditional areas served by the Green Line.

9. Are the stations on the Red Line accessible for passengers with special needs?

Yes, all Red Line stations are fully accessible. Features include wheelchair-friendly gates, ramps, elevators, and tactile guiding paths for visually impaired passengers. Priority seating is also available on all trains to accommodate those who require assistance.

10. Does the Red Line go to Expo 2020?

Yes, the Route 2020 extension connects the Red Line directly to Expo 2020 Dubai. This makes it simple for visitors to attend exhibitions, events, and conferences without needing a car or taxi. The extension also serves new residential and commercial areas along the route.

Conclusion

The Dubai Metro Red Line is more than just a transportation system—it is a lifeline for residents, tourists, and business travelers in Dubai. Covering major attractions, airports, business hubs, and residential areas, it provides a fast, safe, and cost-effective way to navigate the city. With updated maps, clear station layouts, convenient timings, and easy accessibility, this metro line is essential knowledge for anyone exploring Dubai. UAE Explorer recommends using the Red Line for sightseeing, airport transfers, and daily commuting to experience Dubai efficiently and comfortably.