Union Metro Station is a rapid transit interchange station that connects the Red Line and Green Line of the Dubai Metro beneath Union Square in Deira, Dubai. The station carries the station code R18 for the Red Line and G20 for the Green Line. Union Metro Station sits in Fare Zone 5 of the Nol fare system. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) opened Union Metro Station on 9 September 2009 as part of the first phase of the Red Line. The station occupies a 25,000-square-metre underground site and ranks as one of the largest underground metro stations in the world.
On the Red Line, Al Rigga sits before Union Metro Station toward Centrepoint, while BurJuman follows toward Expo City and UAE Exchange. On the Green Line, Baniyas Square precedes Union Metro Station toward Creek, and Salah Al Din follows toward Etisalat. Union Metro Station is one of only two stations where the Red Line and Green Line meet, the other being BurJuman. Passengers transfer between lines inside the paid zone without tapping out. The Red Line occupies the upper platform level and the Green Line occupies the lower level. The walk between platforms takes several minutes because of the station’s scale.
Exit 1 leads to Al Rigga Street and the Deira commercial area. Exit 2 opens onto Omar Bin Al Khattab Road and provides access to the Union Bus Station and Al Ghurair Centre. Exit 3 connects to Baniyas Road toward Dubai Creek and Naif Souq. Al Ghurair Centre sits about 400 metres from Exit 2, a walk of roughly four minutes. Union Square Park and Deira Clocktower both sit within walking distance. Travelers heading to Al Ghurair Centre should use Exit 2.
Union Metro Station operates from 5:00 AM to midnight Monday through Thursday, from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM on Friday, and from 8:00 AM to midnight on Saturday and Sunday. Trains arrive every 3 to 4 minutes during peak hours and every 7 to 8 minutes during off-peak periods. A Silver Nol card fare within Zone 5 costs AED 3, while cross-zone journeys range higher based on distance. The station provides full step-free access with lifts, tactile paths, and accessible facilities. First-time visitors should allow extra transfer time because the distance between the Red Line and Green Line platforms exceeds that of most Dubai Metro stations.
📋 Union Metro Station Detail
| Station Detail | Information |
| Official name | Union Metro Station |
| Former name | None |
| Station code | R18 (Red Line) / G20 (Green Line) |
| Line(s) served | Red Line and Green Line |
| Zone | Fare Zone 5 |
| Platform type | Side platforms (4 platforms, 2 per level) |
| Station levels | Red Line upper platform level; Green Line lower platform level; transfer concourse |
| Architecture style | Underground multi-level station spanning 25,000 sq m |
| Opened date | 9 September 2009 |
| Renovated | No major renovation |
| Previous station | Al Rigga — toward Centrepoint (Red Line); Baniyas Square — toward Creek (Green Line) |
| Next station | BurJuman — toward Expo City / UAE Exchange (Red Line); Salah Al Din — toward Etisalat (Green Line) |
| Location | Union Square, Al Rigga, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Exits | 4 exits (Exit 1: Al Rigga Street; Exit 2: Omar Bin Al Khattab Road and bus terminal; Exit 3: Baniyas Road and Naif Souq; Exit 4: Green Line platforms) |
| Interchange | Red Line to Green Line transfer within paid zone; no tap-out required |
| Feeder buses | F01 (Al Baraha), F63 (Al Ras Metro Station), and intercity routes to Sharjah, Ajman, and Fujairah |
| Parking | Free and paid parking available |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair access, lifts, ramps, tactile paths, wide fare gates, accessible restrooms |
| Operating hours | Mon–Thu: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Fri: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Sat–Sun: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Train frequency | Peak: every 3–4 minutes; Off-peak: every 7–8 minutes |
| Facilities | Ticket vending machines, Nol card services, prayer rooms, restrooms, retail outlets, free Wi-Fi, information desks |
| Nol card | Accepted; top-up machines available; Silver, Gold, and Blue cards work at Union Metro Station |
| Contact | RTA hotline: 800 90 90 |
🚇 Union Metro Station Metro Line & Route Position
Line(s) Served
Union Metro Station serves the Red Line and Green Line of the Dubai Metro. The station carries code R18 on the Red Line and code G20 on the Green Line. The RTA operates both lines as fully automated, driverless metro services.
Previous & Next Station
On the Red Line, Al Rigga sits immediately before Union Metro Station toward Centrepoint, while BurJuman sits immediately after toward Expo City and UAE Exchange. On the Green Line, Baniyas Square precedes Union Metro Station toward Creek, and Salah Al Din follows toward Etisalat. Union Metro Station is one of two transfer stations that connect the Red and Green Lines, the other being BurJuman.
Terminus Directions
Red Line trains at Union Metro Station run toward Centrepoint in one direction and toward Expo City / UAE Exchange in the other. Green Line trains run toward Etisalat in one direction and toward Creek in the other. Passengers should check platform signage and train destination displays before boarding.
Adjacent Station Chain
| Direction | Previous Station | This Station | Next Station |
| Toward Centrepoint (Red Line) | Al Rigga | Union Metro Station | — |
| Toward Expo City / UAE Exchange (Red Line) | — | Union Metro Station | BurJuman |
| Toward Creek (Green Line) | Baniyas Square | Union Metro Station | — |
| Toward Etisalat (Green Line) | — | Union Metro Station | Salah Al Din |
🚪 Union Metro Station Exits & Access
Union Metro Station provides four exits that connect passengers to different streets, landmarks, and transport connections in Deira. Exit 1 serves Al Rigga Street and the Deira commercial area. Exit 2 leads to Omar Bin Al Khattab Road, the Union Bus Station, and Al Ghurair Centre. Exit 3 opens onto Baniyas Road toward Dubai Creek and Naif Souq. Exit 4 provides a covered walkway to the Green Line platforms. Travelers should check exit signage before leaving the paid zone because each exit opens onto a different street.
| Exit | Best For | Landmark | Walk Time |
| Exit 1 | Al Rigga Street, Deira commercial area, Union Bus Station | Al Rigga Street | 3 min |
| Exit 2 | Union Bus Station, Al Ghurair Centre, Omar Bin Al Khattab Road | Al Ghurair Centre | 4 min |
| Exit 3 | Dubai Creek, Naif Souq, Baniyas Road | Naif Souq | 6 min |
| Exit 4 | Green Line platforms, transfer concourse | Green Line platforms | 2 min |
Exit 1
Exit 1 at Union Metro Station leads to Al Rigga Street and the surrounding Deira commercial area. Travelers use this exit for the Union Bus Station, which connects to intercity coaches and local RTA bus routes. The walk from Exit 1 to Al Rigga Street takes approximately three minutes. Passengers heading to Sharjah, Ajman, or Ras Al Khor should use Exit 1 for the main bus stop.
Exit 2
Exit 2 at Union Metro Station opens onto Omar Bin Al Khattab Road and provides the most direct route to Al Ghurair Centre and the Union Bus Station. The walk to Al Ghurair Centre takes approximately four minutes. This exit also serves the surrounding commercial zone with exchange houses, banks, and mid-range hotels along Omar Bin Al Khattab Road.
Exit 3
Exit 3 at Union Metro Station connects to Baniyas Road toward Dubai Creek and Naif Souq. Travelers use this exit for the historic Deira Gold Souq, the spice market, and pedestrian routes along the creek. The walk to Naif Souq takes approximately six minutes. This exit also serves the Deira Clocktower and the surrounding heritage district.
Exit 4
Exit 4 at Union Metro Station provides a covered walkway to the Green Line platforms on the lower level. Passengers transferring from the Red Line use this exit corridor to reach Green Line services toward Etisalat or Creek. The walk from the Red Line platform to the Green Line platform through Exit 4 takes approximately two minutes. Travelers should follow the green interchange signage inside the station.
Best Exit For Al Ghurair Centre
Exit 2 serves Al Ghurair Centre at Union Metro Station. The walk from Exit 2 to the mall entrance takes approximately four minutes. Al Ghurair Centre sits about 400 metres from the station and ranks as one of Dubai’s oldest shopping malls. Shoppers should use Exit 2 and follow signage along Omar Bin Al Khattab Road.
Best Exit For Dubai Creek
Exit 3 serves Dubai Creek and the Naif Souq area at Union Metro Station. The walk from Exit 3 to the creek-side heritage district takes approximately six minutes. Travelers heading to the Gold Souq, spice market, or abra stations should use Exit 3 and follow Baniyas Road west.
🔄 Union Metro Station Interchange Guide
Union Metro Station is one of two interchange stations that connect the Red Line and Green Line of the Dubai Metro, the other being BurJuman. Passengers transfer between lines inside the paid zone without tapping out. The transfer involves moving between the upper Red Line platform level and the lower Green Line platform level using escalators, stairs, or lifts. The RTA designed Union Metro Station as a free-transfer facility, and passengers pay a single fare for their entire journey.
Red Line To Green Line Transfer
Passengers arriving on the Red Line at Union Metro Station should follow the green interchange signs to the lower concourse. The walk from the Red Line platform to the Green Line platform takes several minutes because Union Metro Station spans a large underground area. Travelers must remain inside the paid zone and should not tap out at the fare gates. The Green Line concourse sits on a separate level connected by escalators, stairs, and lifts.
Transfer Time And Best Carriage
Passengers should allow five to seven minutes to transfer between the Red Line and Green Line at Union Metro Station, particularly during peak hours. Boarding the front carriage of a Red Line train reduces the walking distance to the Green Line transfer concourse. Union Metro Station’s size means the transfer walk exceeds that of most Dubai Metro stations. Travelers with luggage or mobility needs should use the lifts rather than the escalators.
Common Transfer Mistakes
A common mistake at Union Metro Station is tapping out at the fare gates before completing the line transfer. Passengers should stay inside the paid zone and follow the green interchange signs. Another common error is boarding the wrong Red Line direction after transferring from the Green Line. Travelers should check train destination displays and platform signage before boarding. First-time visitors often underestimate the walking distance between platforms at Union Metro Station.
⏰ Union Metro Station Operating Hours & Frequency
Union Metro Station operates according to the standard Dubai Metro schedule, with extended hours on Fridays and adjusted timings on Sundays. The station opens at 5:00 AM on most days. First trains depart at approximately 5:00 AM to 5:12 AM depending on the day and line. Last trains depart between 11:42 PM and 12:51 AM depending on the day. The RTA may extend operating hours during public holidays, Ramadan, and special events.
| Day | First Train | Last Train |
| Monday–Thursday | 5:00 AM | 11:51 PM |
| Friday | 5:00 AM | 12:51 AM (next day) |
| Saturday | 5:00 AM | 11:51 PM |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM | 11:46 PM |
Weekday Timings
Union Metro Station opens at 5:00 AM Monday through Thursday. Red Line trains depart from Union Metro Station starting at 5:00 AM, and Green Line trains follow a similar schedule with first departures between 5:00 AM and 5:12 AM. The station operates until midnight on weekdays. Travelers should check the RTA app for live schedules because timings can change during Ramadan and public holidays.
Weekend Timings
Union Metro Station operates from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM on Fridays, with the last train departing at approximately 12:51 AM. Saturday service runs from 5:00 AM to midnight. Sunday service begins at 8:00 AM and ends at midnight. The Friday schedule provides the longest operating window of the week.
Train Frequency
Trains arrive at Union Metro Station every 3 to 4 minutes during peak hours and every 7 to 8 minutes during off-peak periods. Peak hours are 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays. The RTA runs 50 trains during peak times across both the Red and Green Lines. Passengers should expect crowded platforms during peak hours at Union Metro Station.
First & Last Train
The first train from Union Metro Station departs at 5:00 AM on most days. Sunday service starts at 8:00 AM. The last train departs between 11:42 PM and 12:51 AM depending on the day and line. Red Line and Green Line schedules vary slightly, so travelers should check platform displays for exact departure times.
🎫 Union Metro Station Ticketing & Fares
Union Metro Station accepts the Nol card, Dubai’s unified public transport payment system. Passengers tap in at the fare gates before boarding and tap out at their destination station. The fare depends on the number of zones crossed during the journey. Union Metro Station sits in Fare Zone 5. A Silver Nol card journey within Zone 5 costs AED 3. Cross-zone fares increase based on distance.
| Zone | Silver Fare | Gold Fare |
| Within Zone 5 | AED 3 | AED 6 |
| 2 Zones | AED 5 | AED 10 |
| 3+ Zones | AED 7.50 | AED 15 |
Nol Card Types
The RTA issues four Nol card types: Silver, Gold, Blue, and Red. The Silver card provides standard fares and suits most travelers. The Gold card costs double the Silver fare and provides access to Gold Class carriages at the front of each train. The Blue card serves students, seniors, and People of Determination with concessionary fares. The Red card serves as a paper ticket option for single journeys.
Fare By Zone
Union Metro Station sits in Fare Zone 5. A Silver Nol card journey within Zone 5 costs AED 3. A journey crossing two zones costs AED 5. A journey crossing three or more zones costs AED 7.50. Gold Class fares are double the Silver fare. A standard paper ticket costs AED 8.50 for a 3-zone journey.
Top-Up Options
Passengers can top up Nol cards at ticket vending machines inside Union Metro Station. The station provides multiple machines on the concourse level. Retail outlets and convenience stores inside the station also offer top-up services. The RTA Dubai app allows online top-up using a registered Nol card. Minimum top-up amounts start at AED 10.
Daily Fare Cap
The RTA applies a daily fare cap for Silver Nol card users. The Silver Nol card daily cap is AED 14. Once a passenger reaches the daily cap, further journeys that day cost nothing. The Gold Nol card carries a higher daily cap. The fare cap resets at midnight each day.
🗺️ Union Metro Station Nearby Attractions
Union Metro Station sits in the heart of Deira, one of Dubai’s oldest and most vibrant districts. The station provides walking access to several major landmarks, shopping centres, and heritage sites. Al Ghurair Centre, one of Dubai’s oldest shopping malls, sits about 400 metres from Exit 2. Union Square Park and Deira Clocktower both sit within walking distance. The Naif Souq and Dubai Creek heritage area sit near Exit 3.
Al Ghurair Centre
Al Ghurair Centre is a shopping mall that sits approximately 400 metres from Union Metro Station. Travelers should use Exit 2 and walk along Omar Bin Al Khattab Road for about four minutes. The mall opened in 1981 and ranks as one of Dubai’s oldest shopping centres. Al Ghurair Centre houses fashion outlets, dining options, and a cinema. The mall connects to Swissôtel Al Ghurair, a prominent hotel in Deira.
Deira Clocktower
Deira Clocktower is a landmark monument that sits within walking distance of Union Metro Station. The clocktower marks the entrance to Deira and sits near the junction of Al Maktoum Road and Omar Bin Al Khattab Road. Travelers can reach the clocktower from Exit 2 or Exit 3 in approximately five to eight minutes. The monument serves as a meeting point and orientation landmark in the area.
Naif Souq
Naif Souq is a traditional market that sits near Exit 3 of Union Metro Station. The walk from Exit 3 to Naif Souq takes approximately six minutes along Baniyas Road. The souq sells textiles, electronics, perfumes, and traditional goods. The area surrounding Naif Souq features narrow lanes and historic buildings that reflect Deira’s trading heritage.
Business And Government Access
Union Metro Station provides walking access to several business and government destinations in Deira. The Dubai Municipality building sits about 180 metres south of the station. Thanawiya Post Office and several bank branches operate within walking distance. Travelers should use Exit 2 or Exit 3 for access to these destinations.
| Destination | Type | Nearest Exit | Walk Time |
| Dubai Municipality | Government office | Exit 3 | 3 min |
| Emirates NBD | Bank | Exit 2 | 4 min |
| Dubai Islamic Bank | Bank | Exit 2 | 5 min |
| Thanawiya Post Office | Post office | Exit 1 | 4 min |
Walking Distances
Walking distances from Union Metro Station vary by exit and destination. Al Ghurair Centre sits four minutes from Exit 2. Union Square Park sits directly above the station. Deira Clocktower sits five to eight minutes from Exit 2 or Exit 3. Naif Souq sits six minutes from Exit 3. Dubai Creek sits within a ten-minute walk from Exit 3. Travelers should allow extra time during summer months because of the heat.
🏙️ Union Metro Station Surrounding Neighborhoods
Union Metro Station sits at the centre of several Deira neighborhoods that reflect the historic commercial character of old Dubai. Al Rigga, Naif, Al Muraqqabat, and Al Baraha all sit within walking distance of the station. These neighborhoods combine residential buildings, hotels, retail shops, and traditional markets. The area attracts residents, tourists, and traders throughout the day.
Al Rigga
Al Rigga is a mixed-use neighborhood that surrounds Union Metro Station and extends along Al Rigga Street. The district features mid-range hotels, restaurants, cafes, and retail shops. Al Rigga Street runs parallel to the station and connects to Al Maktoum Road. The neighborhood character blends residential buildings with commercial activity. Travelers reach Al Rigga from Exit 1 in approximately three minutes.
Naif
Naif is a historic commercial neighborhood that sits south of Union Metro Station near Dubai Creek. The district features narrow lanes, traditional markets, and older buildings that reflect Deira’s trading heritage. Naif Souq anchors the area with textile, electronics, and perfume shops. The neighborhood character is densely commercial with a strong heritage atmosphere. Travelers reach Naif from Exit 3 in approximately six minutes.
Al Muraqqabat
Al Muraqqabat is a residential and commercial neighborhood that sits east of Union Metro Station. The district features apartment buildings, hotels, and neighborhood restaurants. Al Muraqqabat connects to Al Rigga Street and Al Maktoum Road. The neighborhood character is predominantly residential with ground-floor retail. Travelers reach Al Muraqqabat from Exit 1 in approximately five to seven minutes.
Al Baraha
Al Baraha is a residential neighborhood that sits north of Union Metro Station. The district features hospitals, mosques, and residential buildings. The F01 feeder bus connects Union Metro Station to Al Baraha directly. The neighborhood character is quieter and more residential than the station area. Travelers reach Al Baraha by feeder bus in approximately fifteen minutes.
🚌 Union Metro Station Bus & Transport Connections
Union Metro Station connects to an integrated bus terminal that serves local RTA routes and intercity coaches. The Union Bus Station sits above the metro station and provides feeder bus services to Deira neighborhoods. Intercity coaches depart from Union Bus Station to Sharjah, Ajman, and Fujairah. Taxis and ride-hailing services operate from designated ranks outside the station. Feeder buses are free if passengers transfer from the metro using a Nol card within 30 minutes of tapping out.
| Route | Destination | Frequency |
| F01 | Al Baraha | Every 7–8 min peak; 12–15 min off-peak |
| F63 | Al Ras Metro Station | Every 12–15 min peak; 20–25 min off-peak |
| E303 | Al Jubail Station (Sharjah) | Intercity service |
| E400 | Ajman | Intercity service |
| E700 | Fujairah | Intercity service |
Feeder Bus Routes
The F01 feeder bus links Union Metro Station to the Al Baraha neighborhood in Deira. The route passes through Naif Park, Sabkha, and the old Maktoum Heritage Souq area. The F01 bus runs every 7 to 8 minutes during peak hours and every 12 to 15 minutes off-peak. The F63 feeder bus connects Union Metro Station to Al Ras Metro Station through Deira’s historic core. The F63 bus runs every 12 to 15 minutes during peak hours. Both routes operate from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Taxi And Ride-Hailing
Union Metro Station has designated taxi ranks outside the station. Ride-hailing services such as Careem and Uber operate in the area. A taxi from Union Metro Station to Downtown Dubai costs approximately AED 15 to 25. A taxi to Dubai Marina costs approximately AED 20 to 35. Taxis are usually available throughout the day, though short waiting times may occur during evening rush hours.
Intercity Connections
Union Bus Station provides intercity coach services to the northern emirates. The E303 route connects Union Station to Al Jubail Station in Sharjah. The E400 route connects Union Station to Ajman. The E700 route connects Union Station to Fujairah. These intercity services provide an affordable alternative to driving for commuters traveling between Dubai and the northern emirates.
🅿️ Union Metro Station Parking & Vehicle Access
Union Metro Station provides parking facilities for passengers who drive to the station. The station offers both free and paid parking options. Wheelchair-accessible parking spaces are available near the station entrances. Travelers should arrive early during peak hours because parking fills quickly. Drop-off points operate along Al Maktoum Road and Omar Bin Al Khattab Road.
Parking Availability
Union Metro Station provides free and paid parking lots near the station entrances. The parking areas serve both metro passengers and visitors to the surrounding Deira commercial district. Wheelchair-accessible parking spaces sit close to the station entrances. Parking availability varies throughout the day, with peak demand during weekday morning and evening hours.
Drop-Off Points
Drop-off points for Union Metro Station operate along Al Maktoum Road and Omar Bin Al Khattab Road. Taxis and private vehicles use these designated areas for passenger pick-up and drop-off. The drop-off points sit close to Exit 1 and Exit 2. Drivers should follow posted signage and avoid blocking bus lanes.
Cost
Union Metro Station provides both free and paid parking options. Free parking spaces sit in designated lots near the station. Paid parking operates in adjacent commercial areas with metered rates. Parking costs vary by duration and location. Travelers should check posted signage for current rates and time limits.
🏢 Union Metro Station Architecture & Facilities
Union Metro Station is an underground station that spans 25,000 square metres, making it one of the largest underground metro stations in the world. The station features a multi-level layout with the Red Line on the upper platform level and the Green Line on the lower platform level. The architecture incorporates modern design elements with clear directional signage and colour-coded wayfinding. The station provides a range of passenger facilities including air-conditioned waiting areas, retail outlets, and prayer rooms.
Architecture And Design
Union Metro Station features an underground multi-level design that places the Red Line and Green Line on separate platform levels. The station spans 25,000 square metres and ranks as the largest underground metro station in the world by area. The design uses clear colour-coded signage to guide passengers through the interchange. The station concourse provides spacious pedestrian areas with high ceilings and modern finishes. The architecture emphasizes functionality and passenger flow across both metro lines.
Passenger Facilities
Union Metro Station provides air-conditioned waiting areas and platforms on both line levels. Ticket vending machines and Nol card services operate on the concourse level. Elevators and escalators connect the street level, concourse, and both platform levels. The station offers free Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the passenger areas. Security personnel and CCTV monitoring operate continuously. Information desks with multilingual staff provide assistance to passengers.
Retail And Services
Union Metro Station houses retail outlets and convenience stores on the concourse level. Passengers can purchase snacks, beverages, and travel essentials from these outlets. Cafes and small food vendors operate within the station. ATMs and banking services are available near the station entrances. Retail shops accept major payment cards and cash.
Prayer Rooms And Restrooms
Union Metro Station provides separate prayer rooms for men and women. The prayer rooms sit on the concourse level and remain open during station operating hours. Public restrooms and baby changing facilities are available for passengers. Accessible restrooms serve passengers with mobility needs. The station maintains these facilities throughout the day.
♿ Union Metro Station Accessibility Features
Union Metro Station provides full step-free access across all levels. The station features wheelchair ramps, lifts, and tactile guidance paths for visually impaired passengers. Accessible restrooms and priority seating areas serve passengers with mobility needs. Staff trained to assist passengers with special needs are available at information desks. The station meets all RTA accessibility standards.
Wheelchair Access
Union Metro Station provides wheelchair access at all station levels. Lifts connect the street level, concourse, and both Red Line and Green Line platforms. Wide fare gates allow wheelchair users to pass through the ticket barriers. Wheelchair-accessible parking spaces sit near the station entrances. The station meets all RTA accessibility standards for People of Determination.
Elevators And Escalators
Union Metro Station operates elevators that connect all passenger levels. Escalators provide additional vertical circulation between the concourse and platform levels. The station places lift signage prominently for passengers who need step-free routes. Because of the station’s size, passengers with mobility needs should follow lift signage rather than escalator paths. Elevators also connect the station to the Union Bus Station.
Tactile Paths And Signage
Union Metro Station features tactile guidance paths for visually impaired passengers. The paths run from the station entrances through the concourse and to the platform edges. Audio announcements provide train arrival and departure information. Platform screen doors enhance safety at the platform edges. Braille signage and clear directional markers guide passengers throughout the station.
Sensory Facilities
Union Metro Station provides priority seating areas on platforms and trains. Dedicated assistance points operate at information desks on the concourse level. Staff members receive training to assist passengers with special needs. The station’s air-conditioned environment provides comfort during summer months. Quiet areas and accessible restrooms serve passengers with sensory needs.
⏳ Union Metro Station History
Union Metro Station opened on 9 September 2009 as part of the first phase of the Dubai Metro Red Line. The station became an interchange when the Green Line began service on 9 September 2011. Union Metro Station retains its original name and has not undergone major renovation. The station ranks as one of the largest underground metro stations in the world by area.
Opening And Construction
The RTA opened Union Metro Station on 9 September 2009 as part of the Red Line’s first phase. The station became an interchange station on 9 September 2011, when the Green Line began operations. Union Metro Station spans 25,000 square metres and ranks as the largest underground metro station in the world by area. The station’s construction formed part of the RTA’s largest transport infrastructure project in the region. The Red and Green Lines intersect at Union Metro Station and at BurJuman Station.
Station Name History
Union Metro Station has retained its original name since opening in 2009. The station takes its name from Union Square, the public square that sits directly above the station in Deira. The RTA has not renamed Union Metro Station under its station naming rights programme. Other Dubai Metro stations, such as UAE Exchange and Al Karama, have undergone commercial renaming. Union Metro Station’s name remains unchanged.
Renovations And Updates
Union Metro Station has not undergone major renovation since opening in 2009. The RTA maintains the station through regular cleaning, security, and facility upgrades. Ticket vending machines and Nol card services receive periodic updates. The station’s core architecture and platform layout remain unchanged since 2011. Future updates may include Blue Line integration and expanded retail offerings.
Future Plans
The Dubai Metro Blue Line will add 14 new stations by 2029 and will connect to the existing Red and Green Lines. Union Metro Station will remain a key interchange on the existing network. The RTA continues to expand feeder bus services and intercity connections from Union Bus Station. Future plans include enhanced accessibility features and digital wayfinding. Union Metro Station will continue to serve as a central hub for Deira and old Dubai.
💡 Union Metro Station Travel Tips
Travelers can save time and avoid common mistakes at Union Metro Station by following a few practical tips. Allowing extra time for transfers, avoiding peak hours, and using the correct exit for each destination improve the station experience. Passengers should keep their Nol card valid and topped up before entering the paid zone. First-time visitors should follow the colour-coded signage and ask station staff for assistance when needed.
Best Time To Travel
Travelers should avoid Union Metro Station during peak hours, which run from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays. The station experiences heavy passenger volumes during these periods. Mid-morning and mid-afternoon hours provide quieter platforms and faster transfers. Friday mornings remain quiet until approximately 10:00 AM. Travelers with flexible schedules should plan journeys outside peak windows.
Best Carriage For Transfers
Passengers transferring from the Red Line to the Green Line at Union Metro Station should board the front carriage of the Red Line train. The front carriage places passengers closest to the escalators and lifts that lead to the Green Line concourse. The rear carriage sits farthest from the transfer point and increases walking time. Gold Class passengers should note that the Gold carriage sits at the front of the train.
Common Commuter Mistakes
A common mistake at Union Metro Station is tapping out at the fare gates before completing a line transfer. Passengers should stay inside the paid zone and follow the green interchange signs. Another mistake is using the wrong exit for a destination. Exit 1 serves the bus station and Al Rigga Street, Exit 2 serves Al Ghurair Centre, and Exit 3 serves Dubai Creek and Naif Souq. Travelers should check exit signage before leaving the paid zone.
Money-Saving Tips
Travelers can save money at Union Metro Station by using a Silver Nol card instead of paper tickets. A Silver Nol card journey within Zone 5 costs AED 3, while a paper ticket costs more. Feeder buses are free if passengers transfer from the metro using a Nol card within 30 minutes of tapping out. The daily fare cap for Silver Nol card users is AED 14, which limits daily spending. Passengers should top up their Nol card at station machines or through the RTA Dubai app.
❓ Union Metro Station Frequently Asked Questions
Which exit does Union Metro Station use for Al Ghurair Centre?
Exit 2 serves Al Ghurair Centre at Union Metro Station. The walk from Exit 2 to the mall entrance takes approximately four minutes along Omar Bin Al Khattab Road. Al Ghurair Centre sits about 400 metres from the station. Shoppers should follow Exit 2 signage after leaving the paid zone.
What time does Union Metro Station open on Friday?
Union Metro Station opens at 5:00 AM on Fridays. The station operates until 1:00 AM on Saturday morning. The last train departs at approximately 12:51 AM. Friday service provides the longest operating window of the week at Union Metro Station.
How do I transfer from the Red Line to the Green Line at Union Metro Station?
Passengers transfer from the Red Line to the Green Line at Union Metro Station by following the green interchange signs to the lower concourse. The transfer takes place inside the paid zone without tapping out. The walk between platforms takes several minutes because of the station’s size. Travelers should allow five to seven minutes for the transfer.
What is the previous station before Union Metro Station on the Red Line?
Al Rigga sits immediately before Union Metro Station on the Red Line toward Centrepoint. Baniyas Square precedes Union Metro Station on the Green Line toward Creek. The adjacent station depends on the direction of travel and the line served. Passengers should check platform signage for specific train destinations.
What is the next station after Union Metro Station on the Green Line?
Salah Al Din sits immediately after Union Metro Station on the Green Line toward Etisalat. BurJuman follows Union Metro Station on the Red Line toward Expo City and UAE Exchange. The next station depends on the line and direction of travel. Travelers should verify train destination displays before boarding.
Was Union Metro Station ever renamed?
Union Metro Station has retained its original name since opening in 2009. The RTA has not renamed Union Metro Station under its station naming rights programme. The station takes its name from Union Square, the public square above the station. Other Dubai Metro stations, such as UAE Exchange, have undergone commercial renaming.
Can I use a Nol Card at Union Metro Station?
Union Metro Station accepts all Nol card types, including Silver, Gold, Blue, and Red. Passengers tap in at the fare gates before boarding and tap out at their destination. Ticket vending machines and top-up services operate on the concourse level. Feeder buses from Union Metro Station also accept Nol cards for payment.
Union Metro Station remains the central interchange for travelers moving between Dubai’s Red Line and Green Line through the historic Deira district. The station’s 25,000-square-metre underground complex connects residents and visitors to Al Ghurair Centre, Union Bus Station, Dubai Creek, and the northern emirates. As the RTA expands the Dubai Metro network with the Blue Line, Union Metro Station will continue to serve as a critical transfer point between old and new Dubai. Travelers who understand the station’s exits, transfer mechanics, and operating schedule navigate Deira efficiently. Union Metro Station provides a reliable, accessible, and well-connected gateway to one of Dubai’s most vibrant commercial and heritage districts.