The Dubai Metro is one of the world's most modern transit systems — fully automated, spotlessly clean, and incredibly efficient. But it comes with strict rules that catch tourists off guard. Breaking them results in on-the-spot fines of AED 100-200. Here are the 12 rules you need to know before your first ride.
1. No eating or drinking — AED 100 fine. Not even water. This is strictly enforced with CCTV and inspectors. 2. No chewing gum — AED 100 fine. Gum is banned throughout the metro system including stations. 3. Women & Children cabin — AED 100 fine for men. The first cabin is reserved for women and children under 12. It's marked in pink. Men who enter face an immediate fine. 4. No sleeping — AED 300 fine. Yes, sleeping on the metro is actually a finable offense. 5. No feet on seats — AED 100 fine. Keep your feet on the floor. 6. Valid Nol card required — AED 200 fine. Always tap in AND out. Forgetting to tap out means a maximum fare charge. 7. No smoking — AED 200 fine. Including e-cigarettes and vaping. 8. No loud music — AED 100 fine. Use headphones. No speakers allowed. 9. No blocking doors — AED 100 fine. Let passengers exit before entering. 10. No pets — except service animals. Leave your pets at the hotel. 11. No photography of people without consent. Taking photos of fellow passengers can result in complaints. 12. Proper attire required. No swimwear or inappropriate clothing on the metro.
Card Type Cost Best For --- --- --- Red Nol AED 2 (paper) Short-stay tourists (1-5 trips) Silver Nol AED 25 (refundable) Week-long visits (unlimited reloads) Gold Nol AED 25 (refundable) Guaranteed seating in Gold Class Day Pass AED 22 Unlimited rides for 24 hours Fare zones: Within 1 zone: AED 3 (Silver) / AED 6 (Gold) 2 zones: AED 5 / AED 10 Full network: AED 7.50 / AED 15 Pro tip: The Silver Nol card is the best value for most tourists. Load AED 50-100 and use it on metro, buses, tram, and water taxis. The AED 25 card fee is refundable at any station when you leave Dubai.
Complete guide to Dubai Metro rules: no eating (AED 100 fine), women's cabin, Nol card types, Gold Class, operating hours, and 12 rules every tourist must know.