Al Rigga Metro Station is a key rapid transit station on the Red Line (M1) of the Dubai Metro, located in the Al Rigga area of Deira. Opened on 9 September 2009, this station connects commuters and tourists to major attractions, shopping centers, and business hubs in Dubai. Managed by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Al Rigga Station is renowned for its cleanliness, accessibility, and efficient services.
Station Overview
- Address: Al Rigga Rd – Al Muraqqabat – Dubai, UAE
- Metro Line: Red Line (M1)
- Tracks: 2
- Fare Zone: 5
- Operator: Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
- Facilities: Well-maintained, clean, seating, signage, and accessibility features
- Connectivity: Linked to several bus routes and taxis for onward travel
Al Rigga Metro Station is located near Deira Clock Tower and the Delta Centre, making it convenient for both residents and tourists.
Routes and Timings
Al Rigga is situated on the Red Line, connecting Centrepoint (formerly Rashidiya) in the northeast to Expo 2020 in the south. Key nearby stations include Union, Baniyas Square, and Deira City Centre.
Operating Hours:
- The Red Line runs extended hours throughout the week, though it is not 24/7.
- For precise timings, check the official RTA website.
Ticketing and Nol Card Guide
Dubai Metro requires a prepaid Nol card for travel; single-use tickets are not available for purchase at Al Rigga Station.
Types of Nol Cards
| Card Type | Description | 1-2 Zones | 3+ Zones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver (Standard) | Suitable for tourists; can be topped up | AED 3 | AED 7.50 |
| Red (One-Day Pass) | Valid for a single day | AED 4 | AED 8.50 |
| Gold (Gold Class) | Access to Gold Class cabins | AED 8 | AED 17 |
| Blue (Concessionary) | For students/senior citizens | AED 1.50 | AED 3.75 |
Where to Get a Nol Card:
- At Al Rigga Station: Ticket vending machines or service counters
- Other Locations: Supermarkets such as Carrefour, Spinneys, and Waitrose
How to Use a Nol Card:
- Tap On: Place the card on the reader at the entrance gate.
- Tap Off: Tap again at your exit station to calculate the fare.
- Check Balance: Available at vending machines or service counters.
Tip: Always ensure your card is topped up to avoid travel disruptions.
Nearby Attractions
- Dubai Gold Souk and Spice Souk – Famous for jewelry and exotic spices, just a short walk from the station.
- Al Ghurair Centre – One of Dubai’s oldest malls with local and international brands.
- Al Seef Street – A blend of historic architecture and modern retail along Dubai Creek.
Nearby Restaurants
- Landmark Restaurant: Open 24/7, near Exit 2, known for grilled chicken and biryani.
- Rayyan Mandi Rigga: Famous for generous portions of Mandi dishes, open until 3 AM.
- Farsi Restaurant: Authentic Persian cuisine inside Al Ghurair Centre.
- Vrindhavan Restaurant: Pure vegetarian Indian food, affordable and close to the station.
Station Features and Services
- Clean, well-maintained facilities with clear signage
- Accessibility features for disabled passengers
- Connectivity with buses and taxis
- Free Wi-Fi to facilitate online ticket bookings
- Safety and surveillance measures for commuter security
Al Rigga Metro Station lines and routes
| Metro Line | Route | Key Stations Near Al Rigga | Total Stations | Operator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Line (M1) | Centrepoint (Rashidiya) → Expo 2020 | Union, Baniyas Square, Deira City Centre, Al Rigga, Salah Al Din, Dubai Airport Free Zone | 29 | RTA (Dubai Roads and Transport Authority) |
Notes for Commuters:
- Al Rigga is centrally located in Deira, making it convenient for tourists and daily commuters.
- Connects to bus services and taxis for onward travel.
- Key interchange stations on Red Line allow transfers to other metro lines for extended travel across Dubai.
Travel Tips
- Use a Silver Nol Card for tourists to save on fares.
- Opt for Gold Class during peak hours for a comfortable ride.
- Always tap on and tap off correctly to ensure accurate fare calculation.
- Take advantage of nearby attractions and restaurants for sightseeing
Future Plans for Al Rigga Metro Station
- Red Line Expansion: Plans are in progress to improve connectivity along the Red Line to accommodate growing passenger demand.
- Integration with Bus and Tram Networks: Enhanced integration with Dubai’s bus routes and tram lines to provide seamless last-mile connectivity.
- Smart Ticketing Enhancements: Introduction of advanced contactless payments and improved mobile app features for easier Nol card management.
- Sustainability Initiatives: RTA aims to introduce energy-efficient station upgrades and green transit solutions across all Red Line stations.
These developments will enhance commuter convenience, reduce travel time, and promote eco-friendly transportation.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use a single-use ticket at Al Rigga Metro Station?
- No, all travelers must use a Nol card for entry and exit.
Q2. Where can I buy or top up a Nol card?
- Ticket vending machines or service counters at Al Rigga Station.
- Supermarkets like Carrefour, Spinneys, and Waitrose also offer Nol cards.
Q3. What types of Nol cards are available?
- Silver (Standard): For tourists and daily commuters.
- Red (One-Day Pass): For a single-day journey.
- Gold (Gold Class): Premium travel experience.
- Blue (Concessionary): For students and senior citizens.
Q4. How do I use a Nol card?
- Tap on at the entrance gate, tap off at the exit gate, and check the balance regularly to avoid travel issues.
Q5. What are the fares for Al Rigga Metro Station?
- Silver Card: AED 3 (1-2 zones) | AED 7.50 (3+ zones)
- Gold Card: AED 8 (1-2 zones) | AED 17 (3+ zones)
- Red Ticket (One-Day): AED 4 (1-2 zones) | AED 8.50 (3+ zones)
- Blue Card (Concessionary): AED 1.50 (1-2 zones) | AED 3.75 (3+ zones)
Q6. What are the operating hours of Al Rigga Metro Station?
- The Red Line runs extended hours daily, but not 24/7. For exact timings, check the RTA official website.
Q7. Is Al Rigga Metro Station accessible for disabled passengers?
- Yes, it features ramps, elevators, and accessible gates for easy entry and exit.
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