Dubai Airport to Al Barsha and Bur Dubai: Metro or Taxi?
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is close to the city, and the Dubai Metro Red Line stops at two of its three terminals. Your best route depends on which terminal you land at and how much luggage you have.
Which terminal are you landing at?
| Terminal | Metro? | Best option |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Yes, Red Line | Metro, or a taxi from the rank |
| Terminal 3 (Emirates) | Yes, Red Line | Metro, or a taxi from the rank |
| Terminal 2 | No station | Taxi or ride-hailing car |
Check your terminal on your booking or the airline’s website before you fly.
By metro from Terminals 1 and 3
The Red Line runs from the airport through Deira, then along Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Barsha and Dubai Marina. Take the train heading away from Centrepoint, towards the city.
| Going to | Get off at |
|---|---|
| Bur Dubai | BurJuman |
| Sheikh Zayed Road / World Trade Centre | World Trade Centre |
| Al Barsha | Mall of the Emirates or Insurance Market |
| Dubai Marina | One of the Red Line stations in the Marina area |
Before you ride:
- Buy a nol card at the station machines or ticket office. See our Dubai Metro guide.
- Check the luggage rules. The metro limits bag size and number. Large suitcases may not be allowed, so check the RTA website first.
- Avoid rush hour if you have big bags. Trains are busiest on weekday mornings and evenings.
By taxi or ride-hailing car
Official taxis wait at the rank outside arrivals at every terminal. Ride-hailing apps also work from the airport. A taxi is the simplest choice when:
- you land at Terminal 2,
- you have large or several suitcases,
- you’re travelling with young children, or
- you arrive late at night, when the metro may be closed. Check RTA hours for your day.
Taxi fares are metered. Check the RTA website for current rates.
Tips for arrival day
- Download the RTA app for metro times and journey planning.
- Keep your hotel address handy in English, for the taxi driver.
- Ask your hotel about early check-in or bag storage if you land in the morning.
Where to stay, by route
| Station or area | Our hotel |
|---|---|
| BurJuman | Rose Garden Hotel Apartments Bur Dubai, behind BurJuman Mall and metro station |
| World Trade Centre | Rose Executive Hotel DWTC, opposite Dubai World Trade Centre |
| Insurance Market | Rose Park Hotel Al Barsha, opposite Insurance Market Metro Station |
| Al Barsha | Rose Garden Hotel Apartments Al Barsha, studios to three bedrooms |
| Mall of the Emirates | Rose Plaza Hotel Al Barsha, near Mall of the Emirates |
Book on our official site for the best available rate.
FAQ
Is there a metro from Dubai Airport?
Yes. The Red Line stops at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Terminal 2 has no metro station.
How do I get from Dubai Airport to Al Barsha?
Take the Red Line from Terminal 1 or 3 to Mall of the Emirates or Insurance Market, or take a taxi.
How do I get from Dubai Airport to Bur Dubai?
Take the Red Line to BurJuman, or take a taxi from the rank outside arrivals.
Can I take suitcases on the Dubai Metro?
Yes, within the RTA’s size and number limits. Check the RTA website before you travel.