Riding the Dubai Metro is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around the city. With its sleek design, punctual service, and citywide coverage, it’s easy to see why thousands of residents and tourists depend on it daily. However, as smooth and convenient as the experience may be, there’s one thing every passenger must keep in mind — the rules.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has set strict guidelines to ensure safety, order, and respect among commuters. And while most of the rules are common sense, breaking them could lead to fines that range from mildly annoying to surprisingly steep. Whether you’re a frequent rider or a first-time visitor, knowing these 31 Metro fines could save you money, hassle, and an awkward encounter with a ticket inspector.
Let’s break them down in a way that’s easy to remember, and maybe even more important — easy to avoid.
1. Failure to Show a Valid Ticket or Nol Card – AED 200
This is the most common fine. Every time you enter the Metro, you must tap your Nol card. If you’re caught without doing so, or with an expired or invalid ticket, you’ll be fined.
2. Using Another Person’s Nol Card – AED 200
Your Nol card is for you only. Sharing it with someone else or using one that doesn’t belong to you is a violation.
3. Sleeping in Metro Stations – AED 300
While it might be tempting to rest after a long day, Metro stations are not a place for naps. If caught sleeping on benches or station floors, expect a fine.
4. Eating or Drinking in Restricted Areas – AED 100
Metro stations and trains are clean for a reason. Eating or drinking is strictly prohibited, even chewing gum can land you in trouble.
5. Placing Feet on Seats – AED 100
This rule promotes respect and cleanliness. Your feet belong on the floor, not the seat opposite you.
6. Bringing Alcohol into the Metro – AED 500
Carrying alcohol, even if sealed, is a serious offense on the Metro. Consumption or possession is not allowed.
7. Smoking Inside Metro Stations or Trains – AED 200
Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy on smoking in public transport areas. This includes e-cigarettes and vapes.
8. Damaging or Vandalizing Metro Property – AED 500
From scratching glass panels to damaging station walls, any form of vandalism will result in a heavy fine.
9. Selling Goods or Promoting Services – AED 200
The Metro is not a place to advertise or sell products. This includes handing out flyers or offering services to other passengers.
10. Bringing Animals Without Permission – AED 100
Unless it’s a guide dog for a person with visual impairment, animals are not allowed inside the Metro.
11. Standing in Front of Doors or Blocking Entry – AED 100
Blocking doors not only causes delays but also creates safety risks. Always stand aside and allow others to enter and exit freely.
12. Carrying Dangerous or Prohibited Items – AED 1000
Any item that could pose a risk — sharp objects, flammable materials, or firearms — is strictly banned and carries a high fine.
13. Misusing Emergency Equipment – AED 2000
Tampering with emergency buttons, intercoms, or fire extinguishers is a serious offense. Use them only when it’s truly an emergency.
14. Entering Restricted Areas – AED 100
Some areas are for staff only. Entering without permission could lead to a fine and being escorted out.
15. Traveling in the Wrong Cabin – AED 100
Gold Class and Women/Children cabins are clearly marked. Entering them without the right ticket or permission will cost you.
16. Using Offensive Language or Behaving Inappropriately – AED 100
The Metro is a public space. Harassment, loud arguments, or any form of inappropriate behavior is not tolerated.
17. Littering Inside Trains or Stations – AED 200
Cleanliness is taken seriously. Even dropping a tissue could lead to a penalty.
18. Playing Loud Music or Causing Disturbance – AED 100
Respect others’ quiet space. Use headphones and keep volumes down.
19. Obstructing the Flow of Passengers – AED 100
Lingering around gates or walking slowly in groups during rush hour can lead to fines.
20. Leaving Bags or Items Unattended – AED 100
Unattended items are a security threat. They can cause evacuations and fines.
21. Failing to Follow Security Personnel Instructions – AED 200
Security staff have the authority to maintain order. Ignoring or arguing with them can backfire.
22. Improper Use of Tickets – AED 200
Using a ticket for a zone you didn’t pay for is cheating the system. The penalty is steep.
23. Damaging or Defacing the Nol Card – AED 200
Nol cards are property of the RTA. Tampering with or damaging them is a punishable act.
24. Entering or Exiting the Train While It’s Moving – AED 2000
This one is rare but very dangerous. Always wait for the train to come to a complete stop.
25. Jumping the Queue or Pushing Others – AED 100
Respect the queue system. Pushing ahead in line is not only rude but fine-worthy.
26. Begging or Soliciting Inside the Metro – AED 100
Asking passengers for money or promoting religious or personal causes is prohibited.
27. Public Displays of Affection – AED 100
Dubai maintains a conservative public decorum. Avoid physical affection like hugging or kissing in the Metro.
28. Damaging Station Furniture or Fixtures – AED 500
This includes benches, glass panels, signage, and even toilets. Take care of public property.
29. Avoiding Fare Zones or Taking a Longer Route on Purpose – AED 200
Know your journey’s zone. Traveling extra stations without paying the correct fare is considered fare evasion.
30. Filming or Photography Without Permission – AED 100
Professional video or photography for commercial use requires permits. Casual selfies are fine, but don’t cross the line.
31. Attempting to Open Train Doors Manually – AED 2000
Train doors are automatic. Trying to force them open during operation is not only dangerous but illegal.
Why These Rules Matter
At first glance, this list might feel overwhelming. But in reality, it’s about respect — for the rules, the city, and your fellow passengers. The Dubai Metro is a marvel of modern infrastructure and has raised the bar for public transport worldwide. These rules are in place to maintain that standard.
The fines may seem high, but they reflect the importance of safety and discipline in a fast-moving urban system. And more than anything, they’re a reminder that the Metro is not just a convenience — it’s a shared space that deserves care.
A Smooth Ride Is a Smart Ride
If you’re new to Dubai, just visiting, or even if you’ve been here for years, keeping these rules in mind ensures that every Metro ride is a smooth one. Being aware of the dos and don’ts can help you avoid awkward situations and unexpected expenses.
Ultimately, riding the Dubai Metro is a shared experience. And like any shared space, it thrives when everyone treats it with kindness, awareness, and responsibility. Learn the rules, follow them with intention, and enjoy one of the cleanest, safest, and most advanced Metro systems in the world — without the added cost of fines.
Let your next Metro journey be stress-free, smart, and fine-free.
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