Dubai Metro Tickets: Dubai Metro is one of the world’s most advanced and affordable public transportation systems, connecting key parts of the city through a well-planned network. Whether you’re a tourist exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa or a daily commuter heading to Dubai Silicon Oasis, understanding the Dubai Metro ticket system helps you save time and money.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about Dubai Metro tickets — including Nol cards, pricing by zones, where to buy, and the best options for frequent riders.
Types of Dubai Metro Tickets
Dubai Metro uses the Nol card system — a smart card issued by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The type of ticket or Nol card you choose depends on how often you travel and the level of comfort you prefer.
Red Ticket (Standard Paper Ticket)
Ideal for tourists and occasional riders, the Red Ticket is a disposable paper-based card valid for up to 10 single trips or 5 daily passes. It is valid only for the Metro, Tram, and Buses.
Silver Nol Card
A rechargeable smart card recommended for regular commuters. It allows easy access to all public transport including Metro, buses, trams, and marine transport.
Gold Nol Card
Provides access to Gold Class cabins in the Metro and Tram. It’s more expensive but offers a quieter and more spacious ride for professionals or premium travelers.
Blue Nol Card
A personalized card for students, senior citizens, and People of Determination. Offers discounted fares and requires registration with proper ID.
This customizable smart card includes your personal details and offers benefits like online balance recovery in case of loss or theft.
Dubai Metro Ticket Prices (2025)
Fares are calculated based on the number of zones you travel across. Below is a summary of the current pricing for different card types:
| Ticket Type | 1 Zone / <3 km | 2 Zones | 3+ Zones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Ticket (Standard) | AED 4 | AED 6 | AED 8.50 |
| Silver Nol Card | AED 3 | AED 5 | AED 7.50 |
| Gold Class (Red) | AED 8 | AED 12 | AED 17 |
| Gold Class Prepaid | AED 6 | AED 10 | AED 15 |
| Blue Nol Card (Concession) | AED 1.50 | AED 2.50 | AED 3.75 |
Note: A Nol card is mandatory for entry — cash or credit cards are not accepted at the metro gates.
| Ticket Type | Card Color/Type | User Type | Initial Cost | Fare Range (1–3+ Zones) | Validity | Rechargeable | Use On |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Ticket | Paper (Standard) | Tourists / Occasional | AED 2 | AED 4 – AED 8.5 | 90 days (max 10 trips/day passes) | Yes | Metro, Tram, Bus |
| Silver Nol Card | Silver | Regular Commuters | AED 25 (AED 19 credit) | AED 3 – AED 7.5 | 5 years | Yes | Metro, Tram, Bus, Water Bus, Parking |
| Gold Nol Card | Gold | Premium Users (Gold Class) | AED 25 (AED 19 credit) | AED 6 – AED 15 | 5 years | Yes | Metro (Gold Class), Tram, Bus |
| Blue Nol Card | Blue (Personalized) | Students, Senior Citizens, People of Determination | AED 70 (with photo & documents) | AED 1.5 – AED 3.75 (concession) | 5 years | Yes | All Public Transport |
| Personal Nol Card | Any (Customized) | Registered Users | AED 50+ | Based on category | 5 years | Yes | All Public Transport |
How the Nol Card Works
A Nol card is a contactless smart card that allows users to travel across various public transport services in Dubai.
Key Features:
- Tap in and tap out at Metro gates
- Top up at machines, RTA kiosks, or online
- Use across Metro, Tram, Bus, and Water Bus
- Easily check your balance through the RTA website or mobile app
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Where to Buy Dubai Metro Tickets & Nol Cards
You can purchase or recharge Nol cards at the following locations:
- Ticket vending machines at all Metro stations
- RTA customer service centers
- Supermarkets and convenience stores like Carrefour, Zoom
- Online via the RTA website or RTA Dubai App
Ticket Validity & Usage Rules
- Tickets are valid only for the zones purchased
- Time limit: Complete your journey within 90 minutes from check-in
- No card sharing: One Nol card per person
- Maximum of 3 transfers allowed within one trip (Metro, Tram, Bus)
- Red Ticket cannot be used across multiple days unless it’s a daily pass
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Dubai Metro Pass Options (For Frequent Travelers)
For daily users, Dubai Metro offers several travel pass options:
| Pass Type | Price | Valid Zones |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Pass | AED 20 | All Zones |
| 7-Day Pass | AED 110–230 | Based on zones |
| 30-Day Pass | AED 270–680 | Based on zones |
| 90-Day Pass | AED 830–1,630 | Based on zones |
| Annual Pass | AED 2,670–5,320 | Based on zones |
These passes offer unlimited travel within the chosen zones.
Fines & Penalties
Avoid common mistakes to prevent fines while using the Metro:
| Violation | Fine (AED) |
|---|---|
| Entering without valid Nol card | 200 |
| Using someone else’s Nol card | 200 |
| Sitting in Gold Class without valid Gold Nol | 100 |
| Eating or drinking inside train | 100 |
| Littering in public transport | 200 |
Tip: Always tap in and tap out your Nol card properly at both ends.
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Tips for First-Time Metro Riders in Dubai
- Best option for tourists: Red Ticket or Silver Nol Card
- Save during off-peak hours: Travel between 10 AM – 4 PM or after 8 PM
- Download the RTA Dubai App: Live maps, balance tracking, recharges
- Use Google Maps or S’hail App: For route planning with Metro schedules
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best ticket option for tourists?
The Red Ticket is ideal for tourists and occasional users. It’s easy to buy at any metro station and can be used for up to 10 single trips or one-day passes.
2. Where can I buy a Nol card or Metro ticket?
You can purchase Nol cards and Red Tickets from metro station ticket counters, ticket vending machines, RTA customer service centres, and select supermarkets and convenience stores.
3. Can I use one Nol card for multiple people?
No. Each passenger must have a separate Nol card or ticket to use the Dubai Metro or other RTA transport services.
4. What is the difference between Silver and Gold Nol Cards?
Silver Nol Card offers regular class travel at standard fare. Gold Nol Card provides access to the Gold Class cabin with more comfortable seating and higher fares.
5. What happens if I forget to check out at the end of my trip?
If you forget to tap your Nol card on the exit gate, the system will charge you the maximum fare for that trip. Always tap in and out to avoid extra charges.
6. Can I get a refund for unused Nol card balance?
Yes, refunds are possible at RTA customer service centers. A small processing fee may apply.
7. Is there a ticket for unlimited rides in one day?
Yes, the Red Ticket Day Pass allows unlimited travel on the Metro, Tram, and Bus services for one day, depending on the selected zones (Zone 1: AED 20, Zone 2: AED 40, All zones: AED 60).
8. How long is the Nol card valid?
Most Nol cards (Silver, Gold, and Blue) are valid for 5 years from the date of issue.
9. What are the benefits of the Blue Nol Card?
The Blue Nol Card offers discounted fares for students, senior citizens, and People of Determination. It is a personalized card and requires documentation for application.
10. Can Nol cards be used on other public transport?
Yes. Nol cards can be used on the Metro, Tram, public buses, water buses, and RTA-paid parking zones.
Conclusion
Dubai Metro tickets are designed to cater to all — from tourists looking for one-day access to residents commuting daily. With affordable prices, modern technology, and wide zone coverage, the Nol card system offers seamless access to Dubai’s world-class public transport.
Whether you choose a Red Ticket for short stays or a Silver Nol card for daily travel, the Dubai Metro ensures an efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective way to explore the city.