Introduction to Dubai Metro Timings
The Dubai Metro is a driverless, air-conditioned metro system connecting key attractions such as Dubai International Airport, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Mall of the Emirates, and Expo 2020. This guide focuses on Dubai Metro timings in 2025, including opening time, closing time, frequency, tickets, and late-night planning.
The Dubai Metro consists of three lines: the Red Line, the Green Line, and the upcoming Blue Line, with the Red and Green Lines currently operational. The Blue Line, currently under construction, is expected to cover 30 km with 14 stations and is planned to be completed by 2029.
All stations and train cabins are designed to keep Dubai Metro accessible, with elevators, tactile paths, priority seating, spaces for wheelchair users, and clearly marked Gold Class cabins.
Dubai Metro Operating Hours by Day
Official RTA timings apply system-wide, but the first and last train can differ slightly by metro station and direction.
| Day | Dubai Metro Working Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Friday | 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM (Next Day) |
| Saturday | 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
The Dubai Metro operates daily, with varying timings on weekends, public holidays, and during major city events. When people ask when does Dubai Metro close, remember that “station closing” is not always the same as the final departure. The last train usually departs five to ten minutes before the closing time, which is around 11:55 PM for most stations on the Red and Green lines.
Union and BurJuman stations are interchange stations connecting both the Red and Green lines. Major stops such as Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and other busy stations follow regular hours, but direction-specific departures can vary. Schedule updates and real-time tracking are available on the official RTA website and S’hail App.
Red Line Timings (Dubai Metro Red Line)
The Red Line is the backbone of the Dubai Metro system. The Red Line spans approximately 67 km and includes 35 stations, starting from Centrepoint (Rashidiya) and branching at Jebel Ali into two routes: one to Expo 2020 and the other to UAE Exchange. This line runs near DXB Terminals 1 and 3, along Sheikh Zayed Road, and serves Business Bay, DMCC, and areas near Jebel Ali Industrial Area.
Red Line operating hours match the general schedule: 5:00 AM–12:00 AM from Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 5:00 AM–1:00 AM on Friday, and 8:00 AM–12:00 AM on Sunday. The first train from Centrepoint usually leaves close to opening time. The last northbound or southbound Dubai Metro train leaves before the station closes, so check the exact route before late trips.
Important Red Line Stations:
Airport Terminal 1, Airport Terminal 3, Business Bay, DMCC, Expo 2020, and UAE Exchange. These stops matter because airport arrivals, mall visits, and Expo journeys often run late.
Green Line Timings (Dubai Metro Green Line)
The Green Line serves central and historic Dubai. It runs from Etisalat by e& in the Al Twar area to Dubai Creek, covering around 22.5 km and featuring 20 stations, primarily elevated. It passes Deira, Gold Souk, Al Fahidi, and Creek, with onward access by buses or taxis to areas such as Dubai Creek Harbour.
Green Line timings in 2025 are synchronized with the Red Line: 5:00 AM–12:00 AM (Mon-Thu/Sat), 5:00 AM–1:00 AM (Fri), and 8:00 AM–12:00 AM (Sun). The two lines therefore share the same operating hours, making transfers at Union and BurJuman straightforward.
The Green Line is useful for evening visits to Deira markets and Dubai Creek. If your plan includes Gold Souk, Creek, or nearby heritage areas, check the last train from Creek or Etisalat by e& before you start.
Train Frequency & Peak vs Off-Peak Wait Times
Knowing how often metro trains arrive is as useful as knowing operating hours. During peak hours, Dubai Metro trains run every 2-4 minutes (6:00-8:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM).
Trains arrive almost continuously during busy commute periods.
Comfortable travel with shorter waits during the day and late evening.
On Friday and Saturday evenings, the train frequency is approximately every 4-6 minutes, especially near Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, and Dubai Creek. Real-time countdown screens in each station show upcoming trains.
Special & Holiday Timings (Ramadan, Eid, Events)
Baseline timings are stable, but Dubai Metro timings can change during Ramadan, Eid, and major city events. During Ramadan, the Dubai Metro maintains its regular operating hours but offers extended service during Iftar and Suhoor times with increased frequency.
During major national holidays, the Dubai Metro frequently extends closing times to 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM. The system provides 24-hour service during celebrations like New Year’s Eve, operating continuously for up to 43 hours.
Check RTA “News & Updates” or service advisories before traveling. Do not assume midnight Sunday or previous patterns apply during holidays.
Planning Your Trip: Maps, Stations & Accessibility
Combining timings with a Dubai Metro Map makes journey planning easier. The official map appears in every station, on the RTA app, and inside trains, showing Red and Green connections, interchanges, and zones.
Most stations connect with bus stations, taxi stands, or nearby tram stations. For luggage, a carry on bag is simple during quieter periods, while a large suitcase is easier outside rush hours. The metro is fully accessible with lifts and platform features for People of Determination.
Dubai Metro Tickets, Nol Cards & Gold Class
Passengers must buy Dubai Metro tickets or use a Nol Card before entering paid areas. Fares are based on the number of zones crossed (7 zones total).
- Single JourneyAvailable at vending machines. Starts from AED 3.
- Day PassesUnlimited travel starting from AED 20.
Gold Card or Gold Class tickets allow access to the quieter front cabin. These have higher fares, automatically charged when you tap in and out.
Rules, Safety & Late-Night Alternatives
Following rules keeps the metro safe and punctual. Do not eat or drink onboard, stand clear of doors, and let passengers exit first. Fines apply for fare evasion or entering wrong cabins.
If you miss the last metro today, use RTA buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services. Use S’hail or Wojhati to plan alternatives after Dubai Metro closes.