Union Metro Station Dubai: Timings, Routes & Complete Guide (2026)

Last updated: August 2026

Union Metro Station is one of the busiest and most useful stations on the Dubai Metro, as thousands of passengers commute between the Red Line and Green Line every day.

If you’re looking for detailed information about Union Metro Station Dubai, from exactly where it is, to how to get between the two lines, what the station’s opening hours are, and what amenities are nearby, this guide has it all in one place, based on official RTA sources and a few other reliable sources.

Where Is Union Metro Station Located?

Union Metro Station is in the heart of Deira, right on Union Square, near the intersection of Al Maktoum Road and Omar Bin Al Khattab Road. Its location puts you within easy reach of Deira’s historic areas, old souks, and Dubai Creek.

The station is also one of Dubai Metro’s key interchange points, with R18 on the Red Line and G20 on the Green Line. It covers around 25,000 square metres and is widely described as the world’s largest underground metro station.

Union Metro Station Dubai Map

For the most accurate Union Metro Station Dubai map, use Google Maps to check the station entrance, nearby streets, and walking routes. Union also plays an important role in Dubai’s public transport network, connecting passengers between the Red Line, Green Line, buses, and other transport options.

Union Metro Station Timings & Train Frequency

This is perhaps the most important part of this guide, as Union Metro Station timings are one of the most frequently searched for by users.

According to the official Timetable page on the RTA website, the operating hours of the Dubai Metro (network-wide) are as follows:

These are network-wide Dubai Metro hours, rather than Union-specific timings. Hours may also change during Ramadan or special events, so check the official RTA timetable or S’hail before an important journey.

Note: During peak hours, trains generally arrive every few minutes, while intervals are longer during off-peak periods.

Peak vs Off-Peak Hours

According to several independent sources, typical rush hours on the Dubai Metro are approximately between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM on weekdays.

Because Union is an interchange between two lines, it tends to be even more crowded than many other stations during these times, with passengers arriving, departing, and simply changing lines all crammed into the same space.

Note: Once, it took me longer than I thought to change from the Red Line to the Green Line with my suitcase. Don’t make this mistake and allow a few minutes extra time during rush hour!

First & Last Train

At Union, the first trains generally start around 5:00 AM on most days, while the last trains usually run until around 11:40 PM to midnight. On Friday, service extends to around 12:40–1:00 AM.

Since exact times vary by direction and day, check the official RTA timetable if you’re traveling very early or late.

Red Line & Green Line: How the Interchange Works

According to the official RTA, there are only two interchange points on the entire Dubai Metro network between the Red Line and the Green Line:

• Union (R18/G20) 
• BurJuman (R19/G26)

This means that if you’re on the Red Line and want to go to a destination on the Green Line (or vice versa), you can only do so at these two stations.

How to Change Lines at Union

If you’re changing from the Red Line to the Green Line or vice versa, you usually don’t need to leave the station or pass through the exit gates. Just follow the red or green signs inside the station to reach the right platform.

Red Line vs. Green Line

The Red Line runs between Centrepoint and Expo 2020/Life Pharmacy, while the Green Line connects e& and Creek. From Union, you can use either line to reach different parts of Dubai:

Tip: If you’re using an older Dubai Metro map, you may see Rashidiya instead of Centrepoint or Etisalat instead of e&. These station names have since changed.

Landmarks & Attractions Near Union Metro Station

One of the reasons Union is so popular with tourists is that several of Deira’s major landmarks are within walking distance.

Union Square

The square itself, where the station is located, is a good starting point for exploring this part of Deira.

Al Ghurair Centre / Al Ghurair City Mall

One of Dubai’s oldest malls, a short walk from the station along Omar Bin Al Khattab Road. It’s a great destination for shops, cafes and restaurants.

Deira Clocktower

A well-known old landmark of Deira, accessible by walking east from the station along Al Maktoum Road. It’s worth a visit for photography and the historic feel of the city.

Dubai Creek

Parts of the Creek are a relatively short walk from Union; if you fancy taking a traditional abra or just strolling along the water, this is a good option.

Twin Towers

Another well-known Deira landmark, within walking distance of the station, known for its cheaper electronics and goods.

Dubai Municipality buildings and Consulates

As Deira is one of the old administrative centers of Dubai, several government buildings and consulates are also located in the same area.

Maktoum Hospital

One of the old and well-known hospitals in Dubai, located near this area.

I found Deira especially convenient for food and everyday shopping, with local supermarkets and Persian, Indian, and Arabic restaurants just a short walk from the station.

Important note: Do not confuse Union Square (the square next to the station) with another commercial district of the same name in Dubai; always check your exact destination on the map before you leave.

Station Facilities & Accessibility

Union’s size and crowding can be a bit overwhelming for first-time users, but the facilities inside are designed to make the journey easy for most passengers.

In terms of accessibility, the station includes:

• Elevators and escalators: For moving between floors, including for passengers with wheelchairs, strollers, or heavy luggage.
• Ramps: Located alongside stairs for easier access.
• Tactile guidance paths: From station entrances to platforms for visually impaired passengers.
• Braille signage: Available near entrances for essential information.
• Washrooms and information desks: Along with ticket vending machines that accept cash and cards.
• Other facilities: Small shops, NOL Card machines, and some ATMs.

Tip: Note your exit number before leaving Union. With several entrances, finding your way back can take a few extra minutes.

Parking Near Union Metro Station

If you are driving to the station and then taking the subway, Union Metro Station parking is one of the things you should know in advance.

The area around Union is within Zone D of the RTA paid parking system. Public parking is available around a 6–10 minute walk from the station and Union bus stop, rather than directly beside the metro entrance.

There are usually a few ways to pay for parking in this area:

• RTA Dubai App
• NOL Card on compatible devices
• SMS to 7275 (PARK)
• Smart Kiosks

Parking rates and hours may change, so check the RTA app or parking signs before leaving your car. For more details, see our guide to Dubai’s RTA parking rules.

Getting To/From Union Metro Station

Union is well connected to taxis, buses, and Dubai’s wider public transport network, making it easy to continue your journey after leaving the metro.

By Taxi

There is usually a designated taxi area outside the main entrance. Taxis are a good option if you have heavy luggage, are short on time, or your destination is not easily accessible by metro.

Note: For short distances within Deira, the metro or walking is usually quicker and cheaper; for longer distances or when traveling with a group, a taxi can be more economical.

By Bus

Union is directly connected to Union Square Bus Station, one of Dubai’s major bus terminals, serving both intra-city and intercity routes.

One of the main intercity routes is the E400, which connects Union Square Bus Station with Al Musallah Bus Station in Ajman. Fares and timings may change, so check the S’hail app before traveling.

Several other feeder and regional bus routes also serve Deira and nearby areas.

Using a NOL Card

The NOL Card is a rechargeable RTA card used for the metro, bus, tram, and some parking services. Just tap it when entering and exiting the metro, and the fare is automatically calculated based on the zones traveled.

Tip: When changing between the Red Line and Green Line at Union, you usually don’t need to leave the fare gate, so the transfer doesn’t normally require an extra fare.

Renting a Car Near Union Metro Station

If you plan to visit several places across Dubai or travel to nearby emirates such as Sharjah or Ajman, renting a car in Deira can be more convenient than taking multiple taxis.

In this table, you can see Saadatrent’s starting range for car rental in Dubai Deira. 

These are starting rates and may vary depending on the car, rental dates, and rental conditions.

If you prefer not to travel to a rental office, delivery can also be an option. Saadatrent currently lists Deira delivery at AED 90 round trip, which is a relatively low delivery fee compared with the convenience it offers. Availability and booking conditions may vary. 

Tip: If you have luggage or don’t want to change transportation, ask about delivery when booking instead of traveling to the rental office.

Local Tips for Using Union Metro Station

• Local Tip: Union can get overwhelming, especially during busy hours. Check the red or green signs before following the crowd.
• Avoid rush hour: Try to travel between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. or later at night.
• Follow the signs: Don’t simply follow the crowd when changing lines. Checking the signs can save you a few minutes and help you avoid the wrong platform.
• Traveling with luggage: Take the elevator instead of the escalator for a more convenient and safer journey, especially during rush hour.
• Choose your exit: Check the exit signs before leaving. Choosing the closest exit to your destination, such as Al Ghurair Centre or Union Square, can save you a few extra minutes of walking.

Hotels, Restaurants & Practical Places Near Union Metro Station

• Hotels near Union: You’ll find several hotels within walking distance of Union Metro Station, including Landmark Grand Hotel and ibis Dubai Al Rigga. Royalton Hotel is another option, around a 5-minute walk from Union Metro Station.
• Restaurants: For nearby dining, you can try Shabestan Express – Al Ghurair Food Complex for Persian food or Al Zahra Walandaleeb Restaurant Deria Dubai, located opposite Union Metro Station. There are also several restaurants inside Al Ghurair Centre.
• Shopping: Al Ghurair Centre is one of the most convenient shopping options near the station, with shops, restaurants, and everyday services.

Union Metro Station FAQ