Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is the backbone of public transport — modern, clean, punctual, and fully automated (driverless). Two lines cover the main tourist destinations:
🔴 Red Line
The most important line for tourists: Rashidiya ↔ UAE Exchange/Expo 2020. Stops include: Airport Terminal 1 + 3, Deira City Centre (for souks), Burjuman (transfer), DIFC, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates (Ski Dubai), Dubai Marina, JBR.
🟢 Green Line
Etihad Museum ↔ Creek. Passes through historical districts: Al Fahidi (Bastakiya), Bur Dubai, Al Ghubaiba (for Abra rides), Deira/Gold Souk. Transfer to the Red Line at Burjuman and Union.
Fares & Tickets
You need a NOL Card (rechargeable plastic card):
- NOL Silver Card: 25 AED (6 EUR, of which 19 AED credit). Rechargeable. The standard choice for tourists.
- NOL Red Ticket: 2 AED (0.50 EUR) single-use paper ticket + fare. Up to 10 rides can be loaded. For short visits.
- Single Ride: 4–8.50 AED (1–2 EUR) depending on the number of zones
- Day Pass: 22 AED (5.50 EUR) — unlimited rides, worthwhile from 3 rides
Operating Hours
Sat–Wed: 5:00–0:00, Thu: 5:00–1:00, Fri: 10:00–1:00 (later start due to Friday prayer). Every 3–7 minutes.
💡 Tipp
The first carriage is the "Gold Class" area (double price, wider seats, emptier). The last carriage is reserved for women and children — men who board there pay a 100 AED fine!
Achtung
Eating, drinking, and chewing gum are strictly prohibited in the metro — fine 200 AED (50 EUR)! The ban also applies on escalators and in stations.