Dubai Metro Map Guide 2026: Stations, Routes & PDF Download

Dubai Metro is a modern, impressive public transport system equipped with cutting-edge technologies. For residents and tourists alike, it helps individuals move swiftly and cheaply to different parts of the city. If you are a western visitor or new to the city, navigating the system might seem daunting at first, but this detailed Dubai metro maphttps://burjdiary.com/introduction-to-dubai-metro-map/ guide is here to help.
Whether you need to find the nearest station to the Burj Khalifa or figure out how to get from the airport to the Marina, having the right map is the first step to a smooth journey.

Dubai Metro Map with Stations

The Dubai Metro System comprises a number of automated trains and stations spread out across the town at different locations. The Dubai metro map guide gives a visual representation of these metro stops and their routes, ensuring you never get lost.

Dubai Metro Route Map PDF Download

For easy access offline, it is highly recommended to keep a copy of the route map on your phone.

Dubai Metro Map Types

Overall, Dubai’s metro system is displayed in two different map types to help you navigate:

Schematic Map

This contains zones, terminal details, and simple route lines. It is the most popular version among frequent users because it strips away the noise and just shows the connections.

Interactive Map (Red & Green Line)

A detailed version that displays nearby shops, restaurants, and landmarks in addition to the locations of transport zones and train stations.

All the information provided below is illustrated using the schematic version for clarity.

Dubai Metro Lines Explained

The paths covered by metros are indicated by two lines with the colors green and red on Dubai metro station map guides. Both these routes travel to different parts of Dubai and are easily identifiable because of the prominent color difference.

The Red Line Map (Route & Key Stops)

The Red Line is the backbone of the city’s transport. It is longer—with 35 stations—and serves a major portion of Dubai. Since it links several famous tourist spots of the town (e.g., Mall of the Emirates, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, etc.), it’s considered a tourist favorite route, ideal for exploring Dubai under a budget.

You can start traveling from the first station at Centrepoint (formerly Rashidiya), which continues passing several important spots until it ends at the UAE Exchange stop (Jebel Ali area) or the EXPO 2020 station via the Route 2020 extension. If your sole purpose is exploration along Sheikh Zayed Road, this is your ideal path.

Red Line Key Stations:

• Centrepoint
• Airport Terminal 1 & 3
• Deira City Centre
• Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall
• Mall of the Emirates
• Dubai Internet City
• DMCC
• EXPO 2020

Red Line Map:

The Green Line Map (Route & Key Stops)

The Green Line is shorter and covers the “Old Dubai” areas, consisting of twenty stations in total. Running from Etisalat by e& station, this route accesses the city’s bustling center with stops at several historical locations along the way, until it ends at Creek station.

The Dubai metro map for the Green Line includes famous local spots like the Gold Souk and Spice Souk near Al Ras and Baniyas Square stations. Therefore, if your aim is to indulge in Dubai’s historic culture, this would be the perfect choice for you.

Green Line Key Stations:

• Etisalat
• Stadium
• Union (Transfer Station)
• BurJuman (Transfer Station)
• Al Ras (Gold Souk)
• Al Ghubaiba
• Creek

Green Line Map:

Dubai Metro Zones and Fares

There are seven zones in total in Dubai’s transport network, but the Dubai metro map primarily spans across four main zones (Zones 1, 2, 5, and 6).

How Zones Affect Your Ticket Price

How much you’ll be charged for a ride depends upon the number of zones you cross.

• Tier 1: Travel within 1 Zone.
• Tier 2: Travel between 2 adjacent Zones.
• Tier 3: Travel through 3 or more Zones.

Use the information illustrated in the maps to plan your journey and calculate your fare.

Navigating the System: Practical Tips

What if You Get on the Wrong Line? (Transfer Stations)

If you unintentionally boarded the incorrect line, don’t panic. You can always switch lines at the designated transfer stations.

• Union Station
• BurJuman Station

Traveling is generally much more streamlined thanks to this exchange facility. You do not need to tap out and tap back in; simply walk across the platform or take the escalator to the connecting line.

Travel Farther With Trams

Much like the metro trains, there is a separate tram service that provides access to farther and inner parts of Dubai, specifically around the Marina and JBR areas. Its routes are often represented by an orange dotted path on the Dubai metro map guide.

It currently includes 11 stations covering different locations from Jumeirah Beach Residence to Al Sufouh. You can directly board these trams from metros through their exchange terminals present at DMCC and Sobha Realty stations.

Important Things to Consider While Using Dubai’s Metro Services

The Trains Time:

The metro facilities stay operational throughout the week. For Mon-Thu and Saturdays, its timing starts at 5 am and ends at midnight. Sunday timing is 8 am-12 am while on Fridays, it operates until 1 pm starting from 5 am. Overall timings may differ for different routes on different occasions.  Details on timings, locations and ticket costs can also be found online through the official website or app of Dubai’s roads and transport authority.

The waiting time is not very long. Generally, a metro ride arrives every 4-7 minutes depending upon the crowd.

Ticket Purchasing and NOL Cards

There are several options to pay for your journey including regular on-spot tickets (Red Ticket) or NOL cards. NOL cards are the local transport smart cards of Dubai that are credited with balance and can be used for everyday travel through all public buses, trains, and even water taxis.

NOL Card Types

• Silver Card: Best for regular commuters.
• Gold Card: Allows access to the Gold Class cabin for a premium fee.
• Blue Card: Personalised card for students, seniors, and residents.
• Red Ticket: Paper ticket for single use or tourists staying only a day or two.

These tickets and cards can be purchased directly at stations or approved retail stores (e.g., Spinneys, Zoom) around town.

Ticket Prices Snapshot:

• Within 1 Zone: AED 4 (Silver) / AED 8 (Gold)
• 2 Zones: AED 6 (Silver) / AED 12 (Gold)
• All Zones: AED 8.5 (Silver) / AED 17 (Gold)

(Note: Prices subject to change by RTA. Always check the official RTA app).

Parking at Metro Stations

There is ample parking available for metro users at the three main subway stations. This “Park-and-Ride” facility allows you to leave your car in a safe environment and head to work or tour the city traffic-free.

Parking capacity is as follows:

• Centrepoint Metro Station (Red Line): ~2700 vehicles
• Jebel Ali Metro Station (Red Line): ~3000 vehicles
• Etisalat Metro Station (Green Line): ~2300 vehicles

Operating Hours and Timings (2026 Update)

The metro facilities stay operational throughout the week, but timings can shift during public holidays or major events.

• Monday – Thursday: 05:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
• Friday: 05:00 AM – 01:00 AM (Next day)
• Saturday: 05:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
• Sunday: 08:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

Note: The waiting time is not very long. Generally, a train arrives every 4-7 minutes depending upon the crowd.

Facilities and Accessibility

Inside the Metro Trains

Complemented by a dedicated Metro Police, over 3000 CCTV cameras, and real-time radio communication, the Dubai Metro is considered one of the safest transit systems in the world.

Each metro train in Dubai is divided into three main cabins:

1. Silver Class: The standard cabin for all commuters.
2. Gold Class: The most premium cabin, located at the front or end of the train. It offers a luxurious sitting environment with panoramic views, carpeted floors, and leather seats. (Requires Gold NOL card).
3. Women & Children Cabin: A separate cabin dedicated strictly to women and children for privacy and comfort.

Accessibility for People of Determination

The Dubai metro map isn’t just about routes; it’s about inclusive access. The system features:

• Tactile floor paths for the visually impaired.
• Wheelchair-friendly lifts and wide ticket gates.
• Designated spaces inside all trains for wheelchairs.
• Note: People of Determination (residents) travel free with their Blue Personalised Nol cards.

FAQ

1. How do I get a map of Dubai Metro stations?
You can view the schematic or interactive maps at any metro station entrance. For convenience, you can download a Dubai metro map PDF from the official RTA website or reliable travel blogs like BurjDiary to keep on your phone.

2. Which metro line goes to Burj Khalifa?
The Red Line takes you to the Burj Khalifa. You need to get off at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From there, a climate-controlled metro link bridge connects you directly to the mall and the tower.

3. Is the Dubai Metro map 2022 or 2023 still valid in 2026?
Mostly, yes. However, some station names have changed (e.g., Rashidiya is now Centrepoint, Al Jafiliya is Max Fashion). It is best to use an updated Dubai metro map 2026 to avoid confusion regarding station names.

4. Can I use the metro to get to the airport?
Yes. The Red Line stops directly at Airport Terminal 1 and Airport Terminal 3. If you arrive at Terminal 2, you will need to take a bus or taxi to connect to the nearest Green Line station.

5. What are the operating hours for the Dubai Metro on Fridays?
As of the latest update, on Fridays, the metro runs from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM (next day). Timings can vary during public holidays such as Eid or New Year’s Eve.

6. How much does a Dubai Metro ticket cost?
Fares depend on the zones crossed. A standard trip within one zone costs AED 4 with a Silver NOL card. A trip crossing all zones costs AED 8.50. Gold class fares are double the standard fare.

Conclusion

To conclude, whether you’re a visitor exploring Dubai or a citizen looking to commute locally, the Dubai Metro system offers a cheap and reliable way to travel safely around the city. With a good understanding of the Dubai metro map guide, you can easily explore various tourist attractions and spots without any worries.

Make sure to download the dubai metro map pdf before you arrive to ensure you have the route handy even without data. Safe travels!