RTA Dubai Metro Timings (2026): Updated Opening & Closing Hours
Planning to get around Dubai? Knowing the RTA Dubai Metro timings can make your journey much easier. Whether you are commuting to work, heading to Dubai International Airport, visiting famous attractions, or exploring the city, staying updated on the Dubai Metro’s operating hours ensures you reach your destination on time. Operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Dubai Metro offers a fast, reliable, and convenient way to travel across the city via its Red and Green lines.
This guide covers the latest RTA Dubai Metro timings, including weekday and weekend schedules, first and last train times, and operating hours for public holidays and Ramadan, along with essential travel information to help you plan your journey with confidence.
Dubai Metro Red Line
The Dubai Metro Red Line connects major destinations, including Dubai International Airport, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and UAE Exchange. It is the city’s busiest metro line and provides fast access to key business and tourist areas.
Dubai Metro Green Line
The Dubai Metro Green Line serves historic and residential areas such as Deira and Bur Dubai. It is ideal for commuters traveling between traditional markets, government offices, and commercial districts.
When Does the Dubai Metro Run?
Dubai Metro, operated by the Roads and Transport Authority, operates on a smooth and reliable schedule throughout the week.
- Opening Time: 5:00 AM
- Closing Time: 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Commuters travelling from major stations such as Union, Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Mall can enjoy frequent regular train services throughout the day, making travel in Dubai quick and easy.
Dubai Metro Ramadan Timings
During the holy month of Ramadan, RTA Dubai Metro timings are often adjusted to accommodate residents and visitors who are fasting and participating in evening activities. In previous years, the RTA has extended Dubai Metro service hours on select days, particularly after Iftar, to offer commuters greater flexibility. These schedules may vary each Ramadan based on official announcements.
As Ramadan metro timings are updated annually, passengers should always verify the latest operating hours before traveling. The RTA Dubai app, the official website, and notices at metro stations provide the most accurate information regarding the Ramadan train schedule, as well as the timings for the first and last trains.
First Train Timings from Major Dubai Metro Stations
The RTA Dubai Metro Timings begin across various stations on the Red and Green Lines; however, at the start of the day, the first trains typically depart from the main terminal stations. On weekdays and Saturdays, the first trains leave at 5:00 AM, whereas services begin at 8:00 AM on Sundays. Knowing the departure times of the first Dubai Metro trains helps travelers, airport-bound passengers, and early-shift employees plan their journeys without unnecessary waiting.
Last Dubai Metro Train Timings
If you are traveling late at night, knowing the Dubai Metro’s last train timings is just as important as knowing when services begin. Although operating hours may extend until midnight or later depending on the day, the last train departs from each station a few minutes before the official closing time. If you miss the last train, you may need to use an RTA bus or a taxi to complete your journey.
As a general guide, the last trains typically run until 12:00 AM (midnight) from Monday to Thursday and on Saturdays, until 1:00 AM on Fridays, and until 12:00 AM on Sundays.
Dubai Metro Timings on Public Holidays
RTA Dubai Metro operating hours are subject to change during UAE public holidays, including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, National Day, and New Year celebrations. To accommodate high passenger demand, the RTA sometimes extends operating hours or adjusts train schedules. These temporary changes facilitate smoother travel for residents and tourists during busy holiday periods.
The RTA announces holiday metro schedules before each public holiday via its official website, mobile app, and social media channels. If you want to check the expiry date of your NOL card online via the official RTA portal. Ensure your card is still valid before traveling.
RTA Dubai Metro Timings on Friday
Friday is the most operationally distinct day on the Dubai Metro guide. As the Islamic holy day in the UAE, Friday mornings experience significantly lower commuter demand while Friday evenings see peak leisure traffic.
Friday Metro Timings:
- Opening time: 10:00 AM
- Closing time: 1:00 AM (the following day)
RTA Dubai Metro Timings on Sunday
- Opening Time: 8:00 AM
- Closing Time: 12:00 AM (Midnight)
- Early Morning Travel: If you need to commute before 8:00 AM, you can use RTA bus services as an alternative.
- Best For: Passengers with early appointments or work commitments can rely on Dubai’s public bus network before metro services begin.
RTA Dubai Metro Timings on Saturday
Many people visit shops on Saturday, and the schedule remains the same during weekly hours.
- 5:00 AM is the opening time.
- It closes at 12:00 AM.
Saturdays are often busy as many come and go to visit shopping malls and popular attractions across Dubai.
Dubai Metro Closing Time Today
Dubai Metro closing times vary on weekdays. Updated times are available here.
- Monday to Thursday: Closes at 12:00 AM (Midnight)
- Friday: Closes at 1:00 AM
- Saturday: Closes at 12:00 AM (Midnight)
- Sunday: Closes at 1:00 AM
Make sure to check the last train times in advance, especially if you are planning to travel in Dubai at night.
Last Metro Timings Today
If you’re going somewhere late at night, check the metro times before you leave. Most stations on the Red and Green lines close at midnight, but the last train usually leaves five to 10 minutes before closing time, around 11:55 pm.
The last train on the Green Line is leaving for Creek. You can check its times using the RTA app or the timetable tool on the RTA website, which shows you detailed times for each station.
RTA Bus Timing Today
Your best bet when the metro is not working is to take an RTA bus if you need to go somewhere that is not on the metro network.
Today’s RTA bus schedule varies by route, but most main routes start around 5 am and run until midnight or later. Bus network connections to major metro stations make travel by bus and train easy and efficient. In case you miss the final metro, there are usually late-night buses that will take you to your destination easily.
RTA Bus Timings App
To make this journey easier, the RTA has launched several mobile applications that provide real-time travel information. The most useful options are the Wojhati Journey Planner and the RTA Dubai app.
With these apps, you can:
- Check bus, metro, and tram schedules anytime.
- Track your bus or train in real time and monitor arrival times.
- Plan your entire journey and estimate travel duration in advance.
- Receive instant service updates and delay notifications to avoid disruptions during your trip.
