7 Dubai Metro hacks every Dubai resident should know
But the question is, are you getting the most out of the Metro?
To make your life easier, we've shared some of the top Dubai Metro hacks to make your journey better than ever.
If you like this: Your complete guide to the Dubai Metro: Timings, fares, routes and stations
From the best seats in the house to the 30-minute rule, here are the tips you need to know.
7 Dubai Metro hacks to try on your next journey
1) Don't forget the minimum amount on your nol card
(Credit: Supplied)
Commuters should have a minimum of Dhs15 on their nol card when using the Metro to cover a round trip. If you haven't got this balance you won't get through the barrier so be sure to top it up before you start queuing.
One-way fares range from Dhs3 to Dhs15 depending on area zones and the class you choose.
If you're topping up at the machine, the minimum amount you can add is Dhs50, however you can add less if you top-up online.
2) Look out for some cool station features
Dubai always takes things to the next level, so you shouldn't be surprised that some of its metro stations do far more than let people on and off the carriages.
From awesome artworks to juice stations, co-working spaces and lots more, it's great to learn which stations hold some of these, so you can pop by next time you're in the area.
To find out what you can find beside a ticket booth or two, check out our full list here.
3) Pick out the best spot
If you're travelling outside of peak-time hours, or get on at the right spot, you might just be able to choose your seat or where you stand in the carriage.
If you're heading in the direction of centrepoint from Expo 2020, aim to sit on the right side at the window. If you do, you'll get some stunning views of Burj Khalifa and Museum of The Future as you trundle past.
Or for a Burj Al Arab and sea view, choose the left side.
4) Remember the 30-minute rule
(Credit: Dubai Media Office)
Dubai's public transport system is all focussed around complete end to end journeys, meaning that you can actually use the Metro and a another form of public transport as one trip.
For example, you could travel on the metro then hop on the bus or tram, but it has to be done within 30 minutes of leaving the metro to count as one trip.
If you do this on time, your trip will only be charged as a single journey (you will be charged based on the total number of zones passed in the two trips combined).
5) Redeem the rewards from your nol card
The payment card that gives you access to all of the city's public transport, there are a few different types to choose from.
However, these tiny rectangles of plastic do more than just beep as you pass through the Dubai Metro gates. There's actually a range of benefits you can unlock just by picking one up.
From using it to pay in restaurants to special discounts, you can find the full list of nol card benefits here.
6) There's free Wi-Fi
The Dubai Metro has free WiFi at all stations, meaning if you're running low on data you can still watch Time Out Dubai's latest reels while you wait for your train.
If you're continuing your journey on another more of transport, you should also note that a total of 21 public bus stations and 22 marine transport stations also have this feature.
7) You can take an e-scooter (but only like this)
If you're continuing on your journey elsewhere post metro ride, then you might want to carry your own e-scooter with you.
After previously being banned, it's worth noting that you can take an e-scooter on board, but it needs to follow certain requirements.
However, they must fit into the new 120cm x 70cm x 40cm requirements, meaning they will be foldable and come without a seat. The scooters must also weigh less than 20kg to be allowed on the metro.
You will also not be allowed to charge your e-scooter in a Dubai Metro station, and cannot bring it inside if it is wet or dirty.
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