Dubai Metro has two main lines: the red line and the green line. The red line takes you to modern attractions like Burj Khalifa and the Museum of the Future, ending at UAE Exchange station. Meanwhile, the green line connects you to historic gems such as Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the Gold Souk, stretching from Etisalat station to Dubai Creek.
To begin your adventure, grab a Nol Card—a smart card that simplifies payment for Dubai's transportation services. Opt for the Silver Nol Card, available for just AED 25, which includes AED 19 in e-purse value. Once equipped with your Nol Card, you're all set to explore Dubai's wonders.
Here are some of Dubai's best free tourist spots that are accessible via the Dubai Metro:
Burj Khalifa (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station)
Start your journey at any Dubai Metro station closest to your location. If you're aiming for the Burj Khalifa, locate the nearest Red Line station. Conveniently, Burj Khalifa is situated near the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa Metro Station on the Red Line. Once you're at the station, await the next train heading towards UAE Exchange Station on the Red Line. Board the train and enjoy the ride, ensuring you stay on the Red Line until you reach the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa Metro Station. Upon arrival, follow the signs to exit the station. From there, follow the signs guiding you towards the Dubai Mall. Burj Khalifa stands adjacent to the mall, making it an easy walk to the tower from there.
Museum of the Future (Emirates Towers Metro Station)
Go back to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station, board the train, and enjoy the ride, ensuring you stay on the Red Line until you reach the Emirates Towers Metro Station. Upon arrival, exit the station and follow the signs directing you towards the Museum of the Future where you can take a short walk going there. Explore this innovative attraction and immerse yourself in cutting-edge technology and design. Remember to check the opening hours of the Museum of the Future before your visit. Enjoy your time exploring this futuristic marvel!
If you want to visit inside (optional): Ticket: AED 149
Dubai Frame (Max Metro Station)
To travel from the Museum of the Future to the Dubai Frame, exit the Museum of the Future and head towards the Emirates Towers Metro Station. board the train, and enjoy the ride, ensuring you are still on the Red Line until you reach the Max Metro Station. From Max Metro Station, you can either walk to the Dubai Frame (approximately a 15-minute walk) or take a taxi for a shorter ride.
Enjoy your time experiencing this iconic attraction!
If you want to visit inside (optional): Admission Fee: Adult - AED 50 | Children (3-12) AED 20 | Infant (3 below) Free
Gold Souk (Green Line - Gold Souq Metro Station)
To travel from Max Metro Station to Al Seef using the Dubai Metro, board a train heading towards Union Metro Station. Union Metro Station is an interchange from Red Line to Green Line. Once you are in Union Metro Station, find the platform heading towards Creek. Alight at Gold Souq Metro Station and walk towards the Gold Souq and Spice Souq.
Al Seef (Green Line - Gold Souq Metro Station; stroll to Deira Old Souq Marine Transportation and take an Abra ride)
After exploring the old Gold and Spice Souq, walk towards the Deira Old Souq Marine Transport, and ride an Abra for 2 AED to go to Al Seef.
There are more to explore that I haven't tried like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumaira, and Dubai Creek so I will owe you an update here.
With the Dubai Metro as your guide, you can explore these incredible attractions without breaking the bank. Enjoy your journey through Dubai's rich culture and modern marvels—all while staying budget-friendly.
Photo credit: Pexel