About the Red Line
🚇 World Record Holder
The Dubai Metro Red Line holds the prestigious Guinness World Record as the world's longest fully automated driverless metro line. Since its inauguration in September 2009, it has revolutionized urban transportation in Dubai, serving millions of commuters with unparalleled efficiency and safety.
🗺️ Strategic Route
Running parallel to Sheikh Zayed Road for most of its journey, the Red Line connects Dubai's key business districts, tourist attractions, and residential areas. From the eastern terminus at Centrepoint (formerly Rashidiya) to the western end at Expo 2020, it serves as the backbone of Dubai's public transport network.
Latest Update: Three Route Operations (2025)
In September 2025, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) introduced a revolutionary change to enhance passenger experience and reduce travel times during peak hours. The Red Line now operates with three distinct routes:
- Route 1 (All Hours): Centrepoint ↔ Expo 2020 Station - Full line service
- Route 2 (All Hours): Centrepoint ↔ Life Pharmacy Station
- Route 3 (Peak Hours Only): Centrepoint ↔ Al Fardan Exchange Station - Operates 7-9 AM and 4-8 PM
This innovative three-route system significantly improves service frequency in high-demand areas, ensuring faster and more efficient daily commutes across Dubai's busiest corridors.
All Red Line Stations
35 stations connecting Dubai's most important destinations from east to west
📍 East to West Journey
Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall
🏙️ World's tallest building • Dubai Mall • Fountain
View Station Details →Mall of the Emirates
🛍️ Ski Dubai • Major shopping destination
View Station Details →Red Line Features & Services
Fully Automated
Driverless trains with advanced safety systems and real-time monitoring ensure smooth, reliable operations 24/7
Free WiFi
Stay connected throughout your journey with complimentary high-speed WiFi available on all trains
Air Conditioned
Comfortable climate-controlled carriages provide relief from Dubai's heat year-round
Full Accessibility
Elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and priority seating ensure easy access for all passengers
Women & Children Cabins
Dedicated carriages exclusively for women and children ensure comfortable, safe travel
Gold Class Cabins
Premium first-class cabins with extra space, plush seating, and enhanced privacy
24/7 Security
Over 3,000 CCTV cameras and dedicated metro police ensure passenger safety
Nol Card Payment
Integrated payment system for metro, buses, and trams with flexible card options
Top Destinations on the Red Line
Easily reach Dubai's most iconic attractions and business districts
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Red Line
How long does it take to travel the entire Red Line?
The complete journey from Centrepoint (Rashidiya) to Expo 2020 takes approximately 70 minutes on Route 1. Travel times vary depending on which of the three routes you take, with Route 3 (peak hours only) being the shortest at around 45 minutes to Al Fardan Exchange.
What are the Red Line operating hours?
The Red Line operates Saturday to Thursday from 5:00 AM to midnight (00:00), Friday from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM, and Sunday from 8:00 AM to midnight. During Ramadan and special events, hours may be extended. Train frequency is 3-4 minutes during peak hours and 7-8 minutes during off-peak times.
How much does it cost to ride the Red Line?
Fares depend on the number of zones traveled. With a Silver Nol card: 1 zone = 3 AED, 2 zones = 5 AED, 3+ zones = 7.50 AED. Gold Class costs double. Red tickets (single use) cost 2 AED extra. Students, seniors, and people of determination receive 50% discounts with special Nol cards.
What is the new three-route system introduced in 2025?
As of September 2025, the Red Line operates three routes: Route 1 (Centrepoint to Expo 2020) runs all hours, Route 2 (Centrepoint to Life Pharmacy) also runs all hours, and Route 3 (Centrepoint to Al Fardan Exchange) operates only during peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-8 PM). This system reduces congestion and travel times during busy periods.
Where can I transfer between Red Line and Green Line?
You can transfer between lines at two interchange stations: Union Station (R18) and BurJuman Station (R19). Both provide seamless connections with clear signage. Simply follow the directional signs to the platform for your connecting line—no need to exit through ticket gates when transferring.
Can I bring luggage on the Red Line?
Yes, passengers may carry two bags: one large bag (max 81×58×30 cm) and one small bag (max 55×38×20 cm). Luggage must be stored in designated areas and not obstruct aisles or doors. This makes the Red Line convenient for airport transfers with Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 direct connections.
What is the Route 2020 extension?
Route 2020 is a 15 km extension opened in 2021, adding 7 stations from National Paints (R38) to Expo 2020 (R76). It connects communities like Discovery Gardens, Al Furjan, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai Investment Park, and provides access to Expo City Dubai—the transformed site of the world's fair.
How do I get from the airport to downtown Dubai on the Red Line?
From Dubai International Airport, board the Red Line at Airport Terminal 3 (R13) or Airport Terminal 1 (R14). For downtown destinations like Burj Khalifa, ride westbound and alight at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (R25). Journey time is approximately 15-20 minutes. The metro operates from 5 AM with trains every 3-7 minutes.
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