Dubai Metro has revolutionized urban travel in the city, providing a fast, reliable, and convenient alternative to road transport. Among its most important stations is Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station, located on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro. This station is particularly vital for travelers arriving at or departing from Dubai International Airport, offering seamless access to Dubai’s urban transit network.
In this guide, we provide a complete overview of Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station, including its route, schedule, nearby amenities, and practical travel tips for passengers.
Location and Accessibility
The Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station is directly adjacent to Dubai International Airport Terminal 3, connected by a covered walkway for easy passenger movement. Travelers can conveniently transition from their flights to the metro without needing taxis or buses for short-distance travel. Its location makes it ideal for passengers heading towards the city center or connecting to other areas in Dubai via the Red Line.
Previous Station: Airport Terminal 1 (R14)
Next Station: Emirates Metro Station (R12)
Passengers can access the station through multiple entrances, including a pedestrian bridge from the terminal. Accessibility features such as elevators, escalators, and ramps ensure that passengers with luggage, strollers, or mobility needs can navigate easily.
Dubai Metro Timings – Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station
From Expo 2020 towards Centrepoint
Monday to Thursday & Friday
| Station | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Terminal 1 (R14) | 5:06 | 23:56 |
| Airport Terminal 3 (R13) | 5:08 | 23:58 |
| Emirates (R12) | 5:10 | 23:59 |
Saturday & Sunday
| Station | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Terminal 1 (R14) | 5:06 / 8:23 | 23:59 / 23:55 |
| Airport Terminal 3 (R13) | 5:08 / 8:25 | 0:01 / 23:57 |
| Emirates (R12) | 5:10 / 8:27 | 0:03 / 23:59 |
From Centrepoint towards Expo 2020
Monday to Thursday & Friday
| Station | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates (R12) | 5:06 | 22:50 |
| Airport Terminal 3 (R13) | 5:08 | 22:52 |
| Airport Terminal 1 (R14) | 5:10 | 22:54 |
Saturday & Sunday
| Station | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates (R12) | 5:06 / 8:05 | 22:54 / 22:49 |
| Airport Terminal 3 (R13) | 5:08 / 8:07 | 22:56 / 22:51 |
| Airport Terminal 1 (R14) | 5:10 / 8:09 | 22:58 / 22:53 |
Pro Tip: For early flights or late arrivals, always verify the latest metro timings. Friday schedules may slightly differ.
Station Facilities
Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station is equipped with modern amenities to make travel smooth and convenient:
- Ticket Office & Machines: Purchase or top up your NOL card easily at multiple counters.
- Information Desk: Friendly staff are available for guidance on routes, transfers, and fares.
- Electronic Displays: Real-time updates on train departures and arrivals.
- Toilets & Accessibility: Restrooms are available, and the station is wheelchair-friendly.
- Luggage Guidelines: Passengers can carry up to two suitcases, with the following size limits:
- Large suitcase: 81 cm × 58 cm × 30 cm
- Small suitcase: 55 cm × 38 cm × 20 cm
The station layout ensures smooth passenger flow, even during peak travel hours. Signage in English and Arabic helps both local and international travelers navigate easily.
Quick Facts About Dubai Airport Terminal 3
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opened | Terminal 3 began operations in 2008, marking a major expansion of Dubai International Airport. |
| Airlines | Primarily dedicated to Emirates Airlines, with select flydubai flights. |
| Annual Capacity | Designed to handle 65–75 million passengers every year. |
| Concourses | Includes Concourses A, B, and C, connected by airside trains and walkways. |
| Total Area | Covers approximately 1.7 million m², making it the world’s second-largest airport terminal by floor area. |
| Flights Handled | Supports long-haul, ultra-long-haul, and selected regional routes. |
| Metro Access | Direct access via Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station (Red Line). |
| Passenger Lounges | Features Emirates First Class, Business Class, and Marhaba lounges. |
Nearby Transport Options
In addition to the Dubai metro, several buses stop at or near Airport Terminal 3, offering easy transfers:
- 77 – Baniyas Square Metro Station: Stops include Union Metro, Al Ghurair Centre, and Al Rigga Metro.
- N30 – International City to Airport Terminal 2: Stops at Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 and Dragon Mart.
- C01 – Satva Bus Station: Stops include APO Terminal 1, Union Metro, Gold Souq, and Sharaf DG Metro.
These buses provide convenient connections to key parts of the city not directly served by the metro.
Nearby Hotels and Shopping
For travelers looking to stay near the airport or shop conveniently, several options are available:
Hotels:
- Park Hyatt Dubai – 2.7 km
- Rove City Centre, Deira – 2.9 km
- Al Jaddaf Rotana Suite Hotel – 4.1 km
- Raffles Dubai – 4.3 km
- Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk – 4.4 km
Shopping:
- Dubai Duty Free (0.2 miles): Ideal for travelers seeking duty-free shopping within the airport terminal.
Whether you are waiting for a connecting flight or exploring Dubai for the day, these nearby facilities enhance your travel experience.
Travel Tips for Airport Metro Passengers
- Check Metro Timings: Always plan ahead using official Dubai Metro schedules.
- Top Up Your NOL Card: Avoid delays by ensuring your card balance is sufficient for the journey.
- Arrive Early: Allow extra time for luggage checks and security when moving between the airport and metro.
- Follow Luggage Rules: Ensure your suitcases meet the size regulations to avoid inconvenience.
- Use Covered Walkways: For comfort and protection from the Dubai heat, use the station’s covered paths.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Dubai Airport have a metro station?
Yes. Dubai International Airport has two metro stations: one near Terminal 1 and another at Terminal 3, both on the Red Line.
2. Can I travel to the city from Terminal 3 by metro?
Absolutely. The Red Line connects Airport Terminal 3 to major city hubs, including Deira, Bur Dubai, and Jumeirah.
3. Are there luggage restrictions?
Yes, passengers are allowed two suitcases per trip, with maximum dimensions for large and small luggage as mentioned above.
4. How do I check the NOL card balance?
You can check your balance via the NOL website, at metro stations, or at authorized retail locations.
Final Thoughts
Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station is a key hub for Dubai travelers, providing smooth connectivity to the city and beyond. With detailed schedules, modern facilities, and convenient access from Dubai International Airport, it ensures passengers can travel efficiently and comfortably.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular commuter, understanding the route, schedule, nearby amenities, and travel tips will make your metro journey stress-free and enjoyable.
By following this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to or from Dubai Airport Terminal 3, taking full advantage of one of the city’s most reliable transport systems.
