DUBAI PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM | DUBAI METRO, BUS AND TRAM

Dubai's Public transport system (Metro, Tram, Bus, Taxi, Ferry, Abra, Water Taxi, Water Bus) is a modern, efficient, and cost-effective way to get around the city. Here is a guide on how to use Dubai's Public transport system.

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Purchase a Nol card: The Nol card is a smart card that you can use to pay for your Public transport fares. You can purchase a Nol card at any metro station or at select retailers.

How to Determine your Fare

Dubai city is divided into 7 zones by the RTA (Roads & Transport Authority) Dubai. If you travel in one zone the maximum fare is AED 3 and you can change a maximum of 3 times (Metro or Bus) within 3 hours also changing time should not exceed 30 minutes, for example, if you are traveling from Rashidiya (which is in zone 5) to Dubai Gold Souq (which also in zone 5) and from Rashidiya you take the metro and change metro to bus on Airport Metro Station and again you take the metro from Rigga metro station to reach your final destination Dubai Gold Souq. Now if your switching time was less than 30 minutes and the maximum travel time was under 3 hours you will be charged AED 3 (keep in mind all these places are in the same zone which is 5). If you travel between 2 adjacent zones you will be charged AED 5 (still you can switch 3 times switching time should not be more than 30 minutes and total travel time should not exceed 3 hours).

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If you travel more than 2 zones you will be changed AED 7.5 maximum (can change 3 times within 30 minutes and total traveling time should not exceed 3 hours).

Please note that this fare is for Silver Card (Regular Card) the fare for other types is different you can see the below details about different NOL cards:

Gold Card (Privileged Card)

Usage:

Can be used in all mentioned transportation & non transportation services.

Privilege to access the Metro & Tram Gold class cabin with double the regular fare

Unit price: AED 25 including balance AED 19

Maximum Balance Amount:

1000 AED for Anonymous and 5000 AED for Registered

Validity: 5 Years

Silver Card (The regular Card)

Usage:

Can be used in all mentioned transportation & non transportation services.

Unit price: AED 25 including balance AED 19

Maximum Balance Amount:

1000 AED for Anonymous and 5000 AED for Registered

Validity: 5 Years

Personal Card (Security and Concession Fares)

Features:

Recover your balance if your card gets lost or stolen.

Required for concession fares.

Secure online services for top-up credit.

Usage:

Can be used in all mentioned transportation & non transportation services.

Unit price: AED 70 Credit AED 20

Maximum Balance Amount:

AED 5000

Validity: 5 Years

Concession Fares are available for students, People of Determination (Residents & tourists), Senior Citizens (Emiratis & expats)

Find your nearest bus stop / metro station: Dubai's metro has two lines: the Red Line and the Green Line. The metro stations are clearly marked with signs and maps. You can use the RTA Dubai App “Sahail” (RTA Sahail App is free to use on both Emirates mobile network “Etisalat” and “du” means to use the app you no need to have a data package this app gives you the live updates about bus/metro timing, route, etc.) or the RTA website to find your nearest bus stop / metro station and plan your route.

Follow the signs: Once you enter the metro station, follow the signs to the platform for your desired line and direction. The signs will also indicate the estimated time of arrival for the next train.

Tap your Nol card: To enter the bus / platform, you will need to tap your Nol card at the turnstile. Make sure to hold your Nol card flat against the card reader until the gate opens.

Board the train: When the train arrives, board the train and find a seat or a standing area. If you need to transfer to another line, follow the signs to the transfer station.

Tap your Nol card again: When you reach your destination, you will need to tap your Nol card again at the turnstile to exit the platform.

Follow the signs: Follow the signs to your desired exit and you will be on your way.

Using public transport in Dubai is easy and convenient. Just be sure to follow the signs and tap your Nol card at the turnstiles to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Points to Remember

A minimum of AED 7.5 is required balance on your card before boarding
You must tap your card while entering & exit otherwise you can face a fine and if you forget to tap your card while leaving the bus or metro you will be charged the maximum fare (AED 7.5)
Eating, Drinking, Keeping Feet on the seats, playing loud sounds on board, occupying unauthorized seats, etc are against the rules and one can face a fine for these.
Some buses and all metro network has free wifi (it depends on the offer maybe 50MB or 1 Hour or any other).
RTA Sahail App with live updates about bus / metro timing with route information not required any data plan on both Etisalat or du network.