Dubai Metro Guide for Visitors: Nol Cards, Lines and Rules
The Dubai Metro is clean, air-conditioned and driverless, and it is the easiest way to see the city without sitting in traffic. Two lines cover the airport, Downtown, Dubai Marina and the old city. Here is everything a visitor needs to ride it with confidence.
The two lines
Red Line. Runs the length of Sheikh Zayed Road. It links Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3), Deira, Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station), Al Barsha, Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Marina. A branch runs to Expo City Dubai.
Green Line. Loops through old Dubai: Deira, the Creek, Al Fahidi for the historic district, Oud Metha and Dubai Healthcare City.
The lines meet at BurJuman and Union stations. The Dubai Tram connects with the Red Line in Dubai Marina, for JBR beach and the Palm Jumeirah monorail.
Which nol card do you need?
You pay with a nol card, tapped in and out at the gates.
- Red ticket: a paper ticket for a few trips. Fine for a very short stay.
- Silver card: a reloadable card for everyday travel. The best choice for most visitors.
- Gold card: the same, but for the Gold Class carriage, with more space and fewer people.
- Blue card: a personalised card mainly for residents.
Buy and top up nol cards at ticket machines and counters in every station. Fares depend on how many zones you cross. Check the current fares and timings on the RTA website or app before you travel.
Rules worth knowing
- No eating or drinking, not even water, on trains or in paid areas. Fines apply.
- Gold Class is only for Gold card holders.
- Women and children have a dedicated section at the front of each train.
- Tap in and tap out, or you may be charged the maximum fare.
- Luggage: large suitcases may not be allowed at busy times, so check RTA rules before riding with bags from the airport.
A day by metro from Al Barsha
- Morning: Downtown. Ride the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station for the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
- Afternoon: Dubai Marina. Back the other way to the Marina for the waterfront walk and JBR beach by tram.
- Evening: old Dubai. Change to the Green Line at BurJuman for Al Fahidi, Al Seef and an abra ride across the Creek.
Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai are on the same line. See our Ski Dubai day plan.
Stay opposite the metro: Rose Park Hotel Al Barsha
Rose Park Hotel Al Barsha is opposite Insurance Market Metro Station on the Red Line, on Sheikh Zayed Road. Step out of the hotel, cross to the station, and you’re on the line to Downtown, the Marina and the airport. Guests rate it 8.7 out of 10 from more than 4,500 Booking.com reviews (November 2026). See the rooms.
Book on our official site for the best available rate.
Check rates at Rose Park Hotel Al Barsha →
FAQ
Can I use the Dubai Metro from the airport?
Yes. The Red Line serves Terminals 1 and 3 at Dubai International Airport.
What is the best nol card for tourists?
For most visitors, a Silver nol card, which you can top up as you go. Choose Gold if you want the Gold Class carriage.
Can you drink water on the Dubai Metro?
No. Eating and drinking are not allowed on trains or in paid areas, and fines apply.
What are the Dubai Metro timings?
They vary by day of the week and on public holidays. Check the RTA website or app for current times.