Dubai Metro Destinations Guide - Shopping, Attractions & Business Districts

Explore Dubai's Top Destinations by Metro

Discover world-class shopping malls, iconic tourist attractions, vibrant business districts, and entertainment venues—all easily accessible via the Dubai Metro Red and Green Lines.

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Your Gateway to Dubai's Premier Destinations

The Dubai Metro connects you to the city's most sought-after locations, from luxury shopping districts to cultural landmarks

The Dubai Metro network provides convenient access to over 100 major destinations across the emirate, making it the most efficient way to explore Dubai's diverse attractions. Whether you're seeking world-renowned shopping experiences at mega malls, exploring architectural marvels, conducting business in cutting-edge commercial districts, or enjoying family entertainment, the Metro's Red and Green Lines connect you seamlessly to all of Dubai's must-visit locations.

With 47 stations currently operational across the Red Line (connecting Jebel Ali to Rashidiya) and Green Line (running from Etisalat to Creek), travelers can reach their destinations quickly, comfortably, and affordably. The upcoming Blue Line, scheduled for 2029, will add 14 more stations and approximately 30 km of connectivity, further expanding access to Dubai's growing network of attractions.

100+
Major Destinations
47
Metro Stations
74.6
Kilometers Coverage
2
Active Lines

🛍️ Shopping Destinations

Discover Dubai's world-famous shopping malls and retail districts accessible by Metro

The Dubai Mall

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

The world's largest shopping and entertainment destination featuring over 1,200 retail outlets, 200+ dining options, and attractions including Dubai Aquarium, VR Park, and an Olympic-sized ice rink.

  • Direct walkway access from station
  • World's largest fashion retail destination
  • Dubai Fountain shows every 30 minutes
  • Climate-controlled connection

Mall of the Emirates

Red Line

Station: Mall of the Emirates

Home to over 630 retail outlets, Ski Dubai (the Middle East's first indoor ski resort), Magic Planet entertainment zone, and a 24-screen VOX Cinemas multiplex.

  • Direct Metro connection
  • Ski Dubai indoor snow park
  • Fashion Avenue luxury section
  • Kempinski Hotel attached

Deira City Centre

Red Line Green Line

Station: Deira City Centre

One of Dubai's original mega malls with 370+ stores, featuring international fashion brands, electronics, home furnishing, and extensive dining options.

  • Interchange station access (Red & Green Lines)
  • 20-screen multiplex cinema
  • Magic Planet family entertainment
  • Hypermarket and supermarket

Ibn Battuta Mall

Red Line

Station: Ibn Battuta

A uniquely themed mall inspired by the travels of the Arab explorer Ibn Battuta, featuring six distinct courts representing different cultures with 275+ stores.

  • Unique architectural theming
  • 21-screen IMAX cinema
  • Direct Metro connectivity
  • Geant hypermarket

BurJuman Centre

Red Line Green Line

Station: BurJuman

Upscale shopping destination with 240+ premium brands, luxury retailers, fine dining restaurants, and a cinema complex.

  • Interchange station (Red & Green)
  • Premium luxury brands
  • Central Dubai location
  • Direct Metro access

City Centre Mirdif

Green Line

Station: Stadium + Free shuttle bus

Family-friendly mall with 430+ stores, featuring iFly Dubai indoor skydiving, Magic Planet, Aventura Parks, and extensive dining and entertainment options.

  • Free shuttle from Stadium Metro
  • iFly Dubai skydiving
  • Aventura rooftop adventure park
  • Large family entertainment zone

💡 Shopping Tips

  • Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF): January-February annually with mega discounts and promotions
  • Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS): June-August with special offers and entertainment
  • Gold Cabin on Red Line: Available for premium shopping trips with extra comfort
  • Shopping Hours: Most malls open 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (midnight), extended during festivals
  • Tax Refund: Tourists can claim VAT refunds at designated counters in malls

🏛️ Tourist Attractions & Landmarks

Visit Dubai's iconic landmarks and cultural attractions via Metro

Burj Khalifa

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

The world's tallest building at 828 meters (2,717 feet), offering observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148 with breathtaking 360-degree views of Dubai.

  • At The Top observation decks
  • Sky Lounge on level 148
  • Connected via air-conditioned walkway
  • Dubai Fountain at the base

Dubai Frame

Green Line

Station: Al Jafiliya (10-minute walk)

A 150-meter architectural landmark offering panoramic views of old and new Dubai from a glass-floored bridge, symbolizing the connection between Dubai's past and future.

  • Unique golden frame structure
  • Glass-floor bridge experience
  • Museum showcasing Dubai's history
  • Views of both old and new Dubai

Gold Souk & Spice Souk

Green Line

Station: Al Ras

Traditional markets in Old Dubai offering hundreds of gold jewelry shops and aromatic spice stalls, providing an authentic Arabian trading experience.

  • World's largest gold market
  • Traditional Arabian atmosphere
  • Competitive pricing and bargaining
  • 5-minute walk from Al Ras station

Dubai Creek

Green Line

Stations: Al Ghubaiba, Al Fahidi, Baniyas Square

Historic waterway that shaped Dubai's trading heritage, offering traditional abra (water taxi) rides, heritage districts, and waterfront dining.

  • Traditional abra boat rides
  • Al Fahidi Historical District nearby
  • Waterfront restaurants and cafes
  • Multiple access points via Green Line

Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

Green Line

Station: Al Fahidi (5-minute walk)

Dubai's oldest building (built 1787), housing a museum showcasing the emirate's transformation from a fishing village to a modern metropolis.

  • Oldest existing building in Dubai
  • Interactive historical exhibits
  • Traditional life dioramas
  • Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood nearby

Jumeirah Beach & The Walk

Red Line

Station: Jumeirah Lakes Towers + Tram connection

Access Dubai's pristine beaches and The Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) via Red Line and connecting Dubai Tram, featuring beachfront dining and activities.

  • Connect to Dubai Tram
  • Public beach access
  • JBR Walk shopping and dining
  • Water sports activities

🎯 Why Choose Dubai Metro for Sightseeing?

⚡ Fast & Efficient

Bypass Dubai's traffic with trains running every 3-4 minutes during peak hours, getting you to destinations faster than road transport.

💰 Cost-Effective

Single journey fares from AED 3-8.50 depending on zones. Day passes (AED 20) and Nol Cards offer unlimited travel and significant savings.

🌡️ Climate Controlled

Fully air-conditioned stations and trains provide comfortable travel even during Dubai's hot summer months (40°C+).

♿ Accessibility

All stations equipped with elevators, escalators, and facilities for passengers with disabilities and families with strollers.

🏢 Business & Financial Districts

Connect to Dubai's major commercial hubs and business centers

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

Red Line

Station: Financial Centre

Dubai's leading financial hub hosting over 2,500 companies, featuring Gate Avenue shopping, fine dining, art galleries, and the Dubai International Financial Centre Courts.

  • Major international banks and firms
  • Gate Avenue luxury retail and dining
  • DIFC Art Gallery and cultural venues
  • Direct Metro station access

Business Bay

Red Line

Station: Business Bay

A fast-growing business district with over 240 commercial and residential towers, hosting multinational corporations, startups, and offering waterfront dining along Dubai Water Canal.

  • 240+ commercial towers
  • Dubai Water Canal views
  • Growing startup ecosystem
  • Mix of offices and residences

Sheikh Zayed Road Business District

Red Line

Stations: Emirates Towers, Financial Centre, Trade Centre

Dubai's primary business corridor lined with iconic skyscrapers including Emirates Towers, housing major corporations, hotels, and business facilities.

  • Multiple Metro access points
  • Iconic Emirates Towers
  • Five-star hotels and conference centers
  • Prime business location

Dubai World Trade Centre

Red Line Green Line

Station: World Trade Centre

Premier exhibition and convention center hosting international trade shows, conferences, and business events with over 1 million sqm of event space.

  • International exhibition venue
  • Convention and conference facilities
  • Interchange station access
  • Connected to business hotels

Dubai Internet City & Media City

Red Line

Station: Dubai Internet City

Technology and media free zones hosting global tech giants like Microsoft, Google, Meta, Canon, HP, and major media organizations.

  • Tech industry hub
  • Global technology companies
  • Media and broadcasting center
  • Innovation and startup spaces

Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)

Red Line

Stations: Jumeirah Lakes Towers, DMCC

Free zone business district with 80+ towers around three artificial lakes, housing DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) and thousands of companies.

  • DMCC free zone headquarters
  • Multiple Metro stations
  • Lakeside business environment
  • Dubai Marina proximity

💼 Business Travel Tips

  • Gold Class Cabins: Available on Red Line for premium business travel with extra space and comfort
  • Peak Hours: 6:00-10:00 AM and 4:00-8:00 PM weekdays - plan accordingly for business meetings
  • Wi-Fi Available: Free Wi-Fi on all Metro trains for checking emails and work
  • Monthly Passes: Ideal for regular commuters - unlimited travel for AED 350 (Red zone)
  • Interchange Stations: BurJuman, Union, and World Trade Centre connect Red and Green Lines efficiently

🎭 Entertainment & Leisure Destinations

Access Dubai's premier entertainment, sports, and cultural venues

Dubai Opera

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall (15-minute walk)

State-of-the-art performing arts center in the shape of a traditional dhow, hosting opera, ballet, concerts, theater, and comedy shows with a 2,000-seat capacity.

  • World-class performances
  • Iconic dhow-shaped architecture
  • International artists and shows
  • Waterfront location at Downtown Dubai

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

One of the world's largest suspended aquariums with 10 million liters of water, housing 33,000+ aquatic animals including sharks, rays, and the largest collection of sand tiger sharks.

  • 48-meter walk-through tunnel
  • Cage snorkeling with sharks
  • Behind-the-scenes tours
  • Inside The Dubai Mall

VR Park Dubai

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

The region's largest virtual reality park with 18 attractions combining VR, AR, and interactive experiences across 7,000 sqm in The Dubai Mall.

  • 18 VR and AR experiences
  • Family-friendly attractions
  • Cutting-edge technology
  • Located in Dubai Mall

Dubai Ice Rink

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

Olympic-sized ice rink in The Dubai Mall offering public skating sessions, ice hockey, figure skating lessons, and special disco skating nights.

  • Olympic-size rink
  • Skating lessons available
  • Disco skating nights
  • Equipment rental on-site

KidZania Dubai

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

Educational entertainment city for children aged 4-16, where kids role-play adult professions in a realistic 7,000 sqm mini-city with over 40 activities.

  • 40+ role-playing activities
  • Educational entertainment
  • Realistic mini-city setup
  • Perfect for families

Zabeel Park

Green Line

Station: Al Jafiliya (10-minute walk)

One of Dubai's largest urban parks with 47.5 hectares of green space, featuring jogging tracks, sports facilities, BBQ areas, and views of Dubai Frame.

  • 47.5 hectares green space
  • Jogging and cycling tracks
  • Children's play areas
  • BBQ and picnic facilities

🎓 Educational Institutions & Healthcare Facilities

Major universities, schools, and hospitals accessible via Metro

Dubai Healthcare City

Green Line

Station: Healthcare City

Dedicated healthcare free zone with over 150 medical facilities including hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers, and wellness facilities serving millions of patients annually.

  • 150+ medical facilities
  • Specialized hospitals and clinics
  • International healthcare standards
  • Direct Metro station

Dubai International Academic City

Green Line

Station: Academic City

Educational hub housing over 28 international universities and higher education institutions serving 27,000+ students from 150+ countries.

  • 28+ universities and colleges
  • 27,000+ students
  • International accreditation
  • Dedicated Metro station

Rashid Hospital

Green Line

Station: GGICO (5-minute walk)

Major government hospital and trauma center providing comprehensive healthcare services, emergency care, and specialized medical treatments.

  • Major trauma center
  • 24/7 emergency services
  • Government healthcare facility
  • Close to Green Line

Knowledge Village & Knowledge Park

Red Line

Station: First Gulf Bank (Knowledge Village nearby)

Educational and training hub hosting international university branch campuses, training centers, and learning institutions.

  • International university branches
  • Professional training centers
  • E-learning companies
  • Education-focused business district

🏨 Hotels & Accommodation Near Metro

Stay at world-class hotels with convenient Metro access

Downtown Dubai Hotels

Red Line

Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

Luxury accommodation including Address Boulevard, Armani Hotel Dubai, Vida hotels, and Rove Downtown offering proximity to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa.

  • 5-star luxury properties
  • Walking distance to attractions
  • Direct Metro access
  • Burj Khalifa views

Sheikh Zayed Road Hotels

Red Line

Stations: Emirates Towers, Financial Centre, Trade Centre

Business hotels including Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Shangri-La, Fairmont, offering direct access to business districts and Metro connectivity.

  • Premium business hotels
  • Multiple Metro stations nearby
  • Business center facilities
  • Meeting and conference rooms

Deira Hotels

Red Line Green Line

Stations: Deira City Centre, Union, Al Rigga

Mid-range and budget hotels including Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Deira, offering great value with excellent Metro connectivity to both lines.

  • Affordable accommodation
  • Access to both Metro lines
  • Near traditional souks
  • Shopping mall proximity

Barsha Heights (TECOM) Hotels

Red Line

Station: Nakheel

Affordable hotel options including Rove, Ibis, Citymax offering proximity to Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, and business districts.

  • Budget-friendly options
  • Near Mall of the Emirates
  • Good Metro connectivity
  • Business district access

🏨 Hotel Booking Tips

  • Metro Proximity: Hotels within 500m of Metro stations offer the best connectivity
  • Interchange Stations: Choose hotels near BurJuman, Union, or World Trade Centre for access to both lines
  • Free Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to nearby Metro stations
  • Nol Card at Hotels: Purchase Nol Cards at hotel concierge or nearby Metro stations
  • Day Pass Value: If planning multiple trips daily, get a day pass (AED 20) for unlimited travel

📍 Plan Your Journey

Use our interactive Metro map and journey planner to find the best routes to your destinations

Destinations by Metro Line

Explore what each Metro line has to offer

Metro Line Key Destinations Popular Attractions Stations
Red Line Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, JBR, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, DIFC World's tallest building, largest mall, indoor skiing, beaches, financial district 29 stations
Green Line Dubai Creek, Gold Souk, Healthcare City, Academic City, Dubai Frame, Old Dubai Historical sites, traditional souks, museums, education hubs, cultural heritage 18 stations
Red Line + Green Line BurJuman, Deira City Centre, World Trade Centre (Interchange stations) Shopping centers, business districts, convention centers with access to both lines 3 interchange stations

🚇 Understanding Metro Lines

  • Red Line (29 stations): Runs from Rashidiya to UAE Exchange (Jebel Ali), covering 52.1 km. Serves modern Dubai including Downtown, Marina, Business Bay, and major malls.
  • Green Line (18 stations): Runs from Etisalat to Creek, covering 22.5 km. Focuses on Old Dubai, heritage sites, Healthcare City, and Academic City.
  • Interchange Stations: BurJuman, Union, and World Trade Centre allow seamless transfers between Red and Green Lines.
  • Blue Line (Coming 2029): Will add 14 stations and 30 km, connecting Dubai Creek Harbour, Ras Al Khor, and extending to Dubai Parks.
  • Route Planning: Use RTA's official app or website journey planner for real-time schedules and optimal routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about accessing Dubai destinations by Metro

How do I get to Burj Khalifa by Metro?
Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. The station is directly connected to The Dubai Mall via an air-conditioned walkway (approximately 5-7 minutes walk). Follow the signs to Dubai Mall, then proceed to the Burj Khalifa entrance located at Lower Ground level. The At The Top observation deck ticketing is also available inside The Dubai Mall.
Which Metro station is best for Dubai Marina?
The Red Line has two stations serving Dubai Marina: "DMCC" and "Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)" stations are closest to the Marina area. From either station, you can take the Dubai Tram (connected at DMCC/Jumeirah Lakes Towers stations) which has direct stops at Dubai Marina Walk, Marina Towers, and Marina Mall. Alternatively, it's about a 10-15 minute walk from either Metro station.
Can I reach Dubai beaches by Metro?
Yes! For Jumeirah Beach and The Walk at JBR, take the Red Line to Jumeirah Lakes Towers or DMCC station, then transfer to Dubai Tram heading towards Dubai Marina. The tram has stops at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), The Walk, and Marina Beach areas. For Kite Beach, take Red Line to Mall of the Emirates station and use taxi/bus for the 10-minute journey.
How do I visit the Gold Souk using the Metro?
Take the Green Line to Al Ras station. Exit the station and it's approximately a 5-minute walk to the Gold Souk. The station is located in the heart of Old Dubai's trading district. Signs and local directions will guide you through the covered walkways to the souk entrance. The Spice Souk is also nearby, just a few minutes further walk along the Creek.
Which destinations are accessible from interchange stations?
The three interchange stations (BurJuman, Union, World Trade Centre) provide access to both Red and Green Lines. From BurJuman: access BurJuman Mall, downtown heritage areas. From Union: reach both Deira (Green Line) and Bur Dubai (Red Line) areas, close to Dubai Creek. From World Trade Centre: access Dubai International Convention Centre, business districts on both lines, and Za'abeel Park area.
What's the best Metro station for Mall of the Emirates?
Mall of the Emirates has its own dedicated Metro station on the Red Line called "Mall of the Emirates." The station is directly connected to the mall via covered, air-conditioned walkways. You'll arrive at Level 1 (First Floor) of the mall near Ski Dubai. This is one of the most convenient mall-to-Metro connections in Dubai with immediate access upon exiting the train.
How far in advance should I plan trips to popular destinations?
For most destinations, the Dubai Metro frequency (every 3-4 minutes during peak hours, 7-10 minutes off-peak) means you don't need extensive advance planning. However, for attractions requiring timed tickets like Burj Khalifa At The Top, Dubai Opera shows, or Ski Dubai lessons, book these experiences in advance online. Allow 15-20 minutes for Metro travel from Downtown to Marina, 25-30 minutes from Marina to Old Dubai areas.
Are there luggage facilities at Metro stations near hotels?
While Metro stations don't have dedicated luggage storage facilities, you can travel with luggage on the Metro at no extra charge. Large suitcases are permitted during off-peak hours (avoid 6-10 AM and 4-8 PM). Major hotels near Metro stations (Downtown, Deira, Sheikh Zayed Road) offer luggage storage for guests. For tourist luggage storage, use facilities at Dubai Mall, major hotels, or dedicated luggage storage services in the city.

Practical Travel Information

🎫 Tickets & Payment

  • Nol Card: Rechargeable smart card (AED 25 including AED 19 credit)
  • Single Journey Tickets: AED 4-8.50 depending on zones crossed
  • Day Pass: AED 20 for unlimited travel (24 hours from first use)
  • Monthly Pass: From AED 350 for unlimited Red zone travel
  • Purchase Locations: All Metro stations, authorized retailers, online via RTA app

⏰ Operating Hours

  • Saturday to Thursday: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM (midnight)
  • Friday: 5:00 AM - 1:00 AM (next day)
  • Public Holidays: Extended hours, check RTA announcements
  • Peak Frequency: Every 3-4 minutes (6-10 AM, 4-8 PM)
  • Off-Peak Frequency: Every 7-10 minutes

📱 Metro Apps & Tools

  • RTA Dubai App: Official app for journey planning and live updates
  • S'hail App: Nol card management and recharge
  • Google Maps: Integrated Dubai Metro route planning
  • Wojhati App: Multi-modal journey planner
  • Live Train Tracking: Real-time arrival information at stations

♿ Accessibility Features

  • Wheelchair Access: All stations equipped with elevators and ramps
  • Priority Seating: Designated areas in all train cabins
  • Audio Announcements: Available in Arabic and English
  • Tactile Guide Paths: For visually impaired passengers
  • Assistance Service: Station staff available to help passengers with disabilities

Expert Travel Tips

💡 Money-Saving Tips

  • Purchase a day pass (AED 20) if making 3+ journeys in one day
  • Monthly passes offer best value for residents and long-stay visitors
  • Travel during off-peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) to avoid crowds
  • Use Metro + Dubai Tram combination for comprehensive coverage
  • Many malls offer free parking if arriving by Metro - ask at information desks

⚡ Time-Saving Tips

  • Download RTA app for real-time updates before your journey
  • Avoid peak hours (6-10 AM, 4-8 PM) for faster, more comfortable travel
  • Use interchange stations (BurJuman, Union, World Trade Centre) strategically
  • Stand on the right side of escalators; walk on the left
  • Pre-plan your exit at destination stations to save walking time

🌟 Comfort Tips

  • Gold Class cabins available on Red Line for premium experience
  • Women & Children only cabins at front and back of each train
  • All trains have free Wi-Fi for staying connected
  • Stations are fully air-conditioned with comfortable waiting areas
  • Purchase refreshments before boarding; eating not permitted on trains

📸 Tourist Tips

  • Get off at Burj Khalifa station for iconic skyline photo opportunities
  • Green Line stations showcase local art and cultural designs
  • Visit during evening for illuminated Burj Khalifa and fountain shows
  • Combine Metro with Dubai Tram for waterfront and Marina views
  • Download offline Metro maps for reference without internet

Start Your Dubai Metro Journey Today

Explore Dubai's incredible destinations with the comfort, speed, and convenience of the Dubai Metro system

Related Information

🗺️ Metro Lines Guide

Detailed information about Red Line, Green Line, and upcoming Blue Line routes and stations.

Explore Lines

🚉 All Stations

Complete directory of all 47 Metro stations with facilities, accessibility, and nearby attractions.

View Stations

📋 Metro Rules

Important rules, regulations, fines, and guidelines for safe and respectful Metro travel.

Read Rules

🗺️ Metro Zones

Understanding Dubai Metro's zone system for accurate fare calculation and route planning.

Learn About Zones
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