Using ADCB Metro Station for the first time can be stressful, especially when older maps still call it Al Karama Metro Station. Many passengers are unsure which platform to use, which side of the road to exit from, or whether the final train has already left. Airport travellers may also worry about luggage, while tourists often struggle to understand fare zones, nol card balance, and Green Line connections.
- History of ADCB Metro Station
- Overview and Details of ADCB Metro Station
- ADCB Metro Station Location
- Adjacent Stations on the Red Line
- ADCB Metro Station Platform Layout
- Station Facilities & Amenities
- Ticketing Services and Nol Card Support
- ADCB Station Entrances and Connectivity
- ADCB Metro Station Transport Options
- ADCB Metro Station Accessibility via Bus
- ADCB Metro Station Accessibility by Foot
- ADCB Metro Station Accessibility via Taxi
- ADCB Metro Station Accessibility via Other Metro Stations
- ADCB Metro Station – Popular Destinations & Travel Details
- Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall
- Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi
- Business Bay
- Dubai International Airport
- Mall of the Emirates
- Dubai Marina & JBR
- Gold & Spice Souks
- Dubai Creek Harbour
- Discover Al Karama Neighborhood
- ADCB Metro Station Nearby Places
- ADCB Metro Station Nearby Hospitals
- ADCB Metro Station Nearby Hotels and Restaurants
- ADCB Metro Station Nearby Shops
- ADCB Metro Station Nearby Attractions and Places to Visit
- Nearby Hotels
- ADCB Metro Station Parking Availability
- How to Use ADCB Metro Station?
- Smart Travel Tips for ADCB Station Users
- Avoid Peak Hours
- Use Nol Card
- Download RTA App
- Women & Children Cabin
- Mind Your Belongings
- No Food or Drinks
- Frequently Asked Questions About ADCB Station
- Is ADCB Metro Station on the Red Line?
- Is ADCB Metro Station the same as Al Karama Metro Station?
- Which zone is ADCB Metro Station in?
- What station comes after ADCB?
- Which platform goes toward Dubai Airport?
- Which platform goes toward Dubai Mall?
- Can I change to the Green Line at ADCB?
- What is the first train from ADCB Metro Station?
- What is the last train from ADCB Metro Station?
- What is the last train from ADCB Metro Station?
- Can I top up a nol card at ADCB?
- Are hotels available near ADCB Metro Station?
- Is parking available at ADCB Metro Station?
- Are Metro timings different on public holidays?
- Start Your Dubai Journey from ADCB Station
While researching Dubai Metro routes, official RTA timetables, fare information, and local station guides, I noticed that most passenger problems come from small but important details. A traveller may know the correct station name but still board in the wrong direction. Another person may leave from the wrong side and spend extra time walking in Dubai’s heat. Outdated train timings and unclear bus information can also lead to missed appointments and unnecessary taxi costs.
This guide is designed to solve those problems in simple English. It covers ADCB Metro Station timings, platform directions, fares, nearby bus connections, station facilities, popular routes, and places around Al Karama. Whether you are a daily commuter, tourist, hotel guest, job seeker, shopper, or airport passenger, the information below will help you plan your journey with more confidence.
History of ADCB Metro Station
The station opened on 30 April 2010 as Al Karama Metro Station. It was renamed ADCB Metro Station on 15 September 2014 after Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank received the station naming rights.
Many long-term Dubai residents still use the former name. Therefore, ADCB Metro Station and Al Karama Metro Station refer to the same place.
Overview and Details of ADCB Metro Station
| Station detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official name | ADCB Metro Station |
| Former name | Al Karama Metro Station |
| Metro line | Red Line |
| Station code | R20 |
| Fare zone | Zone 6 |
| Area | Al Karama, Bur Dubai |
| Next station toward Centrepoint | BurJuman |
| Next station toward Expo 2020 or Life Pharmacy | Max |
| Platforms | Two side platforms |
| Green Line interchange | BurJuman |
| Main payment method | nol card or nol Red Ticket |
The official rail map places ADCB in Zone 6 between BurJuman and Max.
Line & Zone
ADCB is a Red Line station in Dubai fare Zone 6. However, the price of your journey is not based only on the zone where the station is located. The final fare depends on the total number of fare zones crossed during the complete journey.
Passengers must tap their nol card when entering and leaving the Metro. The system then calculates and deducts the correct fare.
Operating Hours
The general Dubai Metro opening hours are:
| Day | General opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 5:00 AM to midnight |
| Friday | 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM the next day |
| Saturday | 5:00 AM to midnight |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM to midnight |
These are general network hours. They are not the exact departure times of the first and last trains from ADCB.
The current detailed timetable linked by RTA shows the following scheduled times.
Platform 1: Trains toward Centrepoint
| Day | First train originating from Expo 2020 | First train originating from Life Pharmacy | Last train originating from Expo 2020 | Last train originating from Life Pharmacy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 5:21 AM | 5:06 AM | 11:41 PM | 11:45 PM |
| Friday | 5:21 AM | 5:06 AM | 12:45 AM | 12:41 AM |
| Saturday | 5:21 AM | 5:06 AM | 11:41 PM | 11:45 PM |
| Sunday | 8:08 AM | 8:36 AM | 11:44 PM | 11:40 PM |
Platform 2: Trains toward Expo 2020 or Life Pharmacy
| Day | First train to Expo 2020 | First train to Life Pharmacy | Last train to Expo 2020 | Last train to Life Pharmacy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 5:10 AM | 5:07 AM | 11:08 PM | 11:12 PM |
| Friday | 5:10 AM | 5:07 AM | 12:12 AM | 12:08 AM |
| Saturday | 5:10 AM | 5:07 AM | 11:08 PM | 11:12 PM |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM | 8:04 AM | 11:12 PM | 11:08 PM |
The two times in each direction exist because Red Line services operate through the Expo 2020 and Life Pharmacy branches. Timings can change on public holidays, during major events, or after an RTA timetable update.
Location
ADCB Metro Station is on Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road at 33rd Street in Al Karama, Dubai. Its coordinates are approximately 25.2445° N and 55.2981° E.
Nearby places include Karama Centre, Karama Market, Al Attar Shopping Mall, Dubai Central Post Office, Karama Park, and LuLu Hypermarket Karama.
Connections
Passengers can continue from the station by Metro, bus, taxi, or walking.
Use the Red Line toward Centrepoint for BurJuman, Union, Deira, Airport Terminal 1, Airport Terminal 3, and Centrepoint.
Use the opposite direction for Max, World Trade Centre, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, Business Bay, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, Life Pharmacy, and Expo 2020.
ADCB Metro Station Location
The station is in central Al Karama, close to residential buildings, shops, hotels, offices, restaurants, and public services.
Its position is convenient for people staying in Bur Dubai because passengers can reach the Red Line directly and change to the Green Line at nearby BurJuman.
Map
Use a live map before starting your journey. A map can help you find:
- The nearest station entrance
- The correct road crossing
- Your hotel or office
- The nearest bus stop
- The shortest walking route
- The correct pickup point for a taxi
The RTA Journey Planner also provides routes, departures, timetables, and public transport connections.
Details
ADCB is an elevated station with a street level, concourse, and platform level. The concourse contains the fare gates and station services, while two side platforms serve trains travelling in opposite directions.
Local station photography and guides show ticket machines, a staffed ticket office, an information area, electronic displays, lifts, escalators, toilets, cycle parking, and a convenience store.
Adjacent Stations on the Red Line
The two neighbouring stations are:
- BurJuman, R19: Toward Centrepoint and Dubai International Airport
- Max, R21: Toward World Trade Centre, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Life Pharmacy, and Expo 2020
BurJuman connects the Red and Green lines. Union is the other Red and Green Line interchange station in Dubai.
ADCB Metro Station Platform Layout
ADCB has two side platforms.
| Platform | Direction | Next station |
|---|---|---|
| Platform 1 | Toward Centrepoint | BurJuman |
| Platform 2 | Toward Expo 2020 or Life Pharmacy | Max |
Use Platform 1 for:
Use Platform 2 for:
- World Trade Centre
- Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall
- Business Bay
- Mall of the Emirates
- Dubai Marina
- Life Pharmacy
- Expo 2020
The platform layout also shows that train doors open on the right at ADCB. Always check the digital destination display because some trains end on different Red Line branches.
Station Facilities & Amenities
ADCB provides the main services needed for a normal Metro journey, including ticket support, lifts, escalators, passenger information, and access to nearby public transport.
Nol Card Services
Passengers can buy or top up a nol card at Metro ticket machines and service counters.
A standard Silver nol card currently costs AED 25, including AED 19 of travel credit. The Gold card has the same purchase price and credit but allows access to Gold Class when the correct fare is paid.
A paper-based nol Red Ticket has an issue price of AED 2 and can be loaded for individual journeys.
Full Accessibility
RTA Metro accessibility services include:
- Lift access to station levels
- Dedicated wheelchair spaces on trains
- Tactile guidance paths
- Audible platform alerts
- Flashing door signals
- Information screens
Passengers who need help can speak to station staff before entering the platform area.
Climate Control
Dubai Metro trains and enclosed station spaces are air-conditioned.
However, you may need to walk outside between the station and your final destination. During hot weather, check the walking route before leaving and avoid unnecessary road crossings.
Bus Integration
Several bus routes serve stops near the station. Current RTA timetable pages show routes 61, 88, and C10 at ADCB Metro Bus Stop Seaside. The RTA bus route list also includes the F12 service between Max Metro Station and ADCB Metro Station.
Bus routes and stop assignments may change. Confirm the bus number, destination, and stop side through the RTA Journey Planner before travelling.
Taxi Services
Taxis and app-based ride services operate in Al Karama. Check which side of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road is closest to your destination before booking.
Sharing a live location pin with the driver is useful because Al Karama has many buildings, hotels, and shops with similar names.
Free WiFi
RTA lists Wi-Fi access and mobile phone coverage throughout the Metro network. Connection speed and availability may vary by device and location.
Keep a screenshot of your route or hotel address in case your connection becomes weak.
Ticketing Services and Nol Card Support
Dubai’s public transport network uses a zone-based fare system. The amount deducted depends on the number of zones crossed.
| Ticket type | Within one zone | Two adjacent zones | More than two zones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver nol card | AED 3 | AED 5 | AED 7.50 |
| Personal nol card | AED 3 | AED 5 | AED 7.50 |
| Gold nol card | AED 6 | AED 10 | AED 15 |
| Regular nol Red Ticket | AED 4 | AED 6 | AED 8.50 |
Children aged five and below travel free. Eligible students and senior Emiratis or residents can receive a 50% discount with the correct Personal nol card. Eligible People of Determination travel free.
You need at least AED 7.50 on your nol card to enter the Metro. RTA recommends keeping at least AED 15 available to reduce the risk of insufficient balance on longer journeys.
Sample Fares from ADCB Station
The exact cost depends on your destination and the number of zones crossed.
A short journey to a nearby station may cost AED 3 with a Silver card. Longer trips that cross more than two zones may cost AED 7.50.
Use the RTA Journey Planner for the fare that applies to your full route.
Money-Saving Tip
A Silver nol card is often more practical than separate Red Tickets when you plan to make several public transport journeys.
Keep enough balance for both your outward and return trips. Top up before busy travel periods to avoid waiting at a ticket machine.
ADCB Station Entrances and Connectivity
Public sources do not provide a consistent numbered exit-to-landmark guide for ADCB Metro Station. Some local pages describe two main entrances, but the information is not clear enough to use as an official reference.
Check the signs inside the station and use a live walking map before leaving. This is especially important when travelling to:
- Karama Centre
- Karama Market
- Dubai Central Post Office
- Al Karama Bus Station
- Nearby hotels
- Offices and clinics
- Bus stops on the opposite road side
Choosing the wrong side can add extra walking time, particularly during summer.
ADCB Metro Station Transport Options
Passengers can continue their journeys by bus, walking, taxi, or another Metro line.
ADCB Metro Station Accessibility via Bus
Check whether your bus uses the landside or seaside stop before leaving the station.
The stop name, direction, and final destination are more important than the route number alone. A bus with the correct number may travel in the opposite direction from the other side of the road.
ADCB Metro Station Accessibility by Foot
Several local places can be reached on foot, including Karama Centre, Karama Market, Al Attar Shopping Mall, Dubai Central Post Office, Karama Park, and LuLu Hypermarket Karama.
Al Karama Bus Station is reported to be around half a mile from ADCB, which is roughly 800 metres before allowing for the exact pedestrian route.
ADCB Metro Station Accessibility via Taxi
A taxi may be more suitable for:
- Passengers carrying heavy luggage
- Families with young children
- People with limited mobility
- Travellers visiting a building far from the station
- Visitors travelling during very hot weather
Show the complete address or map pin to the driver instead of using only the building name.
ADCB Metro Station Accessibility via Other Metro Stations
BurJuman is one stop away and provides the closest Green Line interchange.
Change at BurJuman for Green Line destinations such as Sharaf DG, Al Ghubaiba, Gold Souq, Oud Metha, Dubai Healthcare City, Al Jadaf, and Creek.
ADCB Metro Station – Popular Destinations & Travel Details
Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall
Take Platform 2 toward Expo 2020 or Life Pharmacy and leave at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station.
The train journey is direct and takes about eight minutes based on the current scheduled station times. Allow more time for waiting and for the long covered walkway between the Metro station and Dubai Mall.
Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi
Travel one stop toward Centrepoint and change to the Green Line at BurJuman. Continue toward Sharaf DG for the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
Al Fahidi contains traditional buildings, museums, galleries, and heritage attractions. Check the current opening status of Dubai Museum and individual attractions before visiting.
Business Bay
Use Platform 2 and leave at Business Bay Metro Station. No line change is required.
The scheduled train journey is about 11 minutes, but your final destination may require a walk, taxi, or connecting bus because Business Bay covers a large area.
Dubai International Airport
Use Platform 1 toward Centrepoint.
The Red Line serves:
- Airport Terminal 1 Metro Station
- Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station
The scheduled journey is approximately 15 minutes to Terminal 1 and 17 minutes to Terminal 3, excluding waiting time.
Terminal 2 does not have a direct Red Line station, so passengers need an additional bus or taxi connection.
RTA allows each passenger to carry one large suitcase of up to 81 × 58 × 30 cm and one small suitcase of up to 55 × 38 × 20 cm. Luggage must be placed in the dedicated luggage area.
Mall of the Emirates
Use Platform 2 and leave at Mall of the Emirates Metro Station.
The scheduled train journey is about 22 minutes. The station has a direct connection to the mall, making it convenient during hot weather.
Dubai Marina & JBR
Use Platform 2 toward Expo 2020 or Life Pharmacy.
Leave at Sobha Realty or DMCC, depending on your final destination. For JBR, you may need to change to the Dubai Tram or continue by taxi or walking.
Check your exact hotel, beach entrance, or building before choosing the final station.
Gold & Spice Souks
Travel one stop toward Centrepoint and change to the Green Line at BurJuman.
Gold Souq Metro Station serves the wider market area. Al Ras may be more convenient for some traditional shops and creek-side locations.
Dubai Creek Harbour
Dubai Creek Harbour is not directly served by ADCB Metro Station.
Plan a Metro-and-taxi or Metro-and-bus journey through the RTA Journey Planner. Do not confuse Dubai Creek Harbour with Creek Metro Station, as they are different locations.
Discover Al Karama Neighborhood
Al Karama is an established residential and commercial district in Bur Dubai. It is known for local restaurants, affordable shopping, apartment buildings, supermarkets, offices, and public services.
Shopping Paradise
Popular shopping places around the station include:
- Karama Centre
- Karama Market
- Al Attar Shopping Mall
- LuLu Hypermarket Karama
- Local clothing and household shops
These locations are commonly listed as nearby points of interest.
Diverse Dining
Al Karama has many Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Arabic, and international restaurants.
Visitors can find budget cafeterias, bakeries, family restaurants, and casual dining options. Check recent opening hours and reviews before visiting a specific business.
Business Hub
The area includes offices, clinics, travel services, banks, supermarkets, and small businesses.
Job seekers and people attending appointments should save the building location before travelling. Street names and similar building names can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Residential Community
Al Karama is a well-established residential area with access to Metro and bus services.
The station is useful for residents who travel daily toward Deira, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, or areas farther along the Red Line.
Cultural Diversity
The neighbourhood reflects Dubai’s diverse population through its restaurants, shops, languages, and community services.
Visitors can experience a more local side of Dubai than they may find in newer tourist districts.
Walkable Streets
Many local places are walkable, but road crossings and heat can make the journey longer than expected.
Use pedestrian crossings and check the real walking route instead of relying only on straight-line distance.
ADCB Metro Station Nearby Places
ADCB Metro Station Nearby Hospitals
Clinics, pharmacies, and medical services are available in Al Karama and nearby Bur Dubai.
Confirm the exact branch, appointment entrance, and walking distance before travelling. A taxi may be more practical for passengers with health or mobility needs.
ADCB Metro Station Nearby Hotels and Restaurants
Hotels commonly listed around one kilometre from the station include:
- Grand Excelsior Hotel Bur Dubai
- Grayton Hotel
- Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai
The exact walking route may be longer than the straight-line distance, especially when road crossings are required.
ADCB Metro Station Nearby Shops
Nearby shopping options include Karama Market, Karama Centre, Al Attar Shopping Mall, LuLu Hypermarket Karama, convenience stores, and local supermarkets.
ADCB Metro Station Nearby Attractions and Places to Visit
Nearby and wider-area attractions include:
- Karama Park
- Al Karama shopping streets
- Dubai Central Post Office
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
- Dubai Frame
- Zabeel Park
Some of these places may require a bus, taxi, or longer walk. Check the current route before leaving the station.
Nearby Hotels
When choosing a hotel, check:
- Actual walking time
- Summer walking conditions
- Road crossings
- Luggage requirements
- Connection to your airport terminal
- Late-night Metro availability
A hotel described as “near the Metro” may not be comfortable to reach on foot with luggage.
ADCB Metro Station Parking Availability
Do not assume that ADCB has a large dedicated RTA Park and Ride facility.
Parking in Al Karama may include paid public spaces, private building parking, and commercial parking. Check the signs, parking zone, payment method, and operating hours before leaving your vehicle.
How to Use ADCB Metro Station?
- Check your destination before entering.
- Confirm whether you need Platform 1 or Platform 2.
- Make sure your nol card has enough balance.
- Tap the card at the entry gate.
- Follow the platform signs.
- Check the train’s displayed final destination.
- Allow passengers to leave before boarding.
- Use the correct general, Gold, or women-and-children cabin.
- Leave at your destination.
- Tap the same nol card when exiting.
Do not use another person’s personalised card. Using a card designated for someone else can result in a fine.
Smart Travel Tips for ADCB Station Users
Avoid Peak Hours
Weekday morning and evening periods can be busy.
Travel outside normal work-commute times when possible, especially when carrying luggage or travelling with children.
Use Nol Card
Keep your card ready before reaching the gate.
You need at least AED 7.50 to enter, while RTA recommends maintaining AED 15 for greater flexibility.
Download RTA App
Use RTA Dubai or S’hail to check:
- Current train times
- Bus departures
- Journey duration
- Interchanges
- Fare information
- Service changes
RTA recommends its official website and apps for current journey information.
Women & Children Cabin
Dubai Metro trains have cabins reserved for women and children.
Check the platform floor markings before boarding. Entering an area reserved for another passenger category may result in a fine.
Mind Your Belongings
Keep your phone, wallet, bags, and luggage close.
Do not leave luggage near train doors or block movement inside the cabin.
No Food or Drinks
Eating and drinking are not allowed in restricted Metro areas. RTA lists an AED 100 fine for eating or drinking where it is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADCB Station
Is ADCB Metro Station on the Red Line?
Yes. ADCB, code R20, is on the Dubai Metro Red Line.
Is ADCB Metro Station the same as Al Karama Metro Station?
Yes. Al Karama was the station’s former name. It was renamed ADCB in September 2014.
Which zone is ADCB Metro Station in?
The station is in fare Zone 6.
What station comes after ADCB?
BurJuman is next toward Centrepoint. Max is next toward Expo 2020 or Life Pharmacy.
Which platform goes toward Dubai Airport?
Use Platform 1 toward Centrepoint for Airport Terminal 1 and Airport Terminal 3.
Which platform goes toward Dubai Mall?
Use Platform 2 toward Expo 2020 or Life Pharmacy and leave at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall.
Can I change to the Green Line at ADCB?
Yes. Station facilities include ticket machines and staffed ticket services where passengers can receive fare support or top up their card.
What is the first train from ADCB Metro Station?
On Monday to Saturday, the earliest scheduled trains are around 5:06 AM toward Centrepoint and 5:07 AM toward Life Pharmacy. Sunday services begin later. Check the detailed timetable because branch-specific times differ.
What is the last train from ADCB Metro Station?
The last departure depends on the day, direction, and Red Line branch. Friday services operate later than the standard weekday timetable. Check RTA before making a late-night journey.
What is the last train from ADCB Metro Station?
On Monday to Saturday, the earliest scheduled trains are around 5:06 AM toward Centrepoint and 5:07 AM toward Life Pharmacy. Sunday services begin later. Check the detailed timetable because branch-specific times differ.
Can I top up a nol card at ADCB?
Yes. RTA permits one large and one small suitcase per passenger within its stated size limits. Luggage must be stored in the dedicated luggage area.
Are hotels available near ADCB Metro Station?
Yes. Several hotels are located around one kilometre away, but passengers should check the real walking route before booking.
Is parking available at ADCB Metro Station?
Paid public or private parking may be available in Al Karama, but a large dedicated Park and Ride facility should not be assumed.
Are Metro timings different on public holidays?
Yes. RTA states that operating hours can change during public holidays and special events.
Start Your Dubai Journey from ADCB Station
ADCB Metro Station is a useful Red Line stop for people travelling through Al Karama and Bur Dubai. It offers direct access to Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, and many other important areas. BurJuman is also only one stop away, making Green Line connections simple.
From my experience reviewing Dubai Metro maps, RTA schedules, fare rules, station layouts, and passenger questions, I have found that a smooth journey usually depends on four basic checks: the correct platform, the train’s final direction, enough nol card balance, and the walking route after leaving the station. Most travel problems happen when one of these details is ignored.
My practical recommendation is to use Platform 1 for BurJuman, Deira, and the airport, while Platform 2 serves World Trade Centre, Downtown Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, and the southern Red Line branches. Check the digital display before boarding because Red Line trains may have different final destinations.
Before travelling, confirm the latest timings and bus connections through the official RTA Journey Planner or S’hail app. Metro schedules can change during public holidays, special events, and service updates. A few minutes of planning can save you from missed trains, long outdoor walks, low nol balance, and unnecessary taxi fares.
