The Dubai Metro Red Line serves both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 directly — reach Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall in 15 minutes for just AED 3.
At a Glance
- Airport
- Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Journey time
- ~15 min to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall / ~25 min to Union (city centre)
- Fare estimate
- AED 3.00 (Silver Nol card, zones 1–2)
- Metro line
- Red Line
How to Get from Dubai International Airport to the City
The Dubai Metro is the fastest public transport option for getting between Dubai city and the airport area. The Red Line connect the nearest metro station to the city centre.
Travel Tips
- Buy a Nol Silver card immediately at the airport metro station — you cannot board without one.
- Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 each have their own metro stations on the Red Line.
- Terminal 2 does not have a metro station — take a bus or taxi to Union station and connect.
- To Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, board at T3 and ride to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station (~15 min).
- To Old Dubai (Gold Souk, spice market), take the Red Line to Union, then the Green Line.
- Trains run every 4–7 minutes during the day — no need to rush.
Paying for the Journey
Payment methods: Nol Silver card (standard) · Nol Gold card (Gold Class) · Nol Blue card (concessions) · Nol Red ticket (single trip).
💡 You must have a Nol card — cash is not accepted on Dubai Metro. Buy a Silver Nol card (AED 25, includes AED 19 credit) at any station ticket machine. It also works on all RTA buses, trams, and water buses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Dubai Metro go to the airport?
Yes — the Red Line serves Dubai International Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 with dedicated metro stations. Terminal 2 (low-cost/flydubai) has no metro station — take a taxi or bus to connect.
How much is the metro from Dubai Airport to Burj Khalifa?
AED 3.00 with a Silver Nol card (zones 1–2). The Nol card costs AED 25 to buy, including AED 19 stored value. Journey takes about 15 minutes from Terminal 3.
Is the metro running when I land at 2am?
Depends on the day. Saturday–Wednesday the last train is midnight; Thursday 01:00; Friday starts at 10:00 (no early morning service). If landing outside these hours, take a taxi.
Can I take luggage on the Dubai Metro?
Yes, there are no restrictions on luggage. The metro carriages are spacious enough for suitcases during off-peak hours. Avoid peak hours (07:30–09:00 and 17:30–19:30) with large bags.
See also: Dubai Metro ticket prices · Payment card guide · Full Dubai Metro guide
Source: Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Journey times and fares are indicative — verify before travel.