Introduction: Welcome to Dubai’s Transit Powerhouse
If you’ve ever ridden the Dubai Metro, there’s a high chance you’ve ridden through or heard of Union Metro Station. Located at the intersection of Dubai’s vibrant Deira neighborhood, Union Station is not simply another subway stop—it’s a lifeline linking people, companies, and communities.
If you’re a commuter, visitor, or curious local navigating the city’s arteries of connectivity, Union Metro Station is worth your interest. It’s where convenience, accessibility, and cutting-edge transport intersect with historic Dubai charm.
Here, I will take you through all you need to know about Union Metro Station in 2025—from its prime location, design, and metro lines to bus connections, surrounding attractions, and useful commuting tips.
Why Union Metro Station Matters
You’re navigating Dubai, a city of skyscrapers, beaches, traditional souks, and sprawling business hubs. Amidst all this is Union Metro Station, connecting two major metro lines—the Red Line and the Green Line—making it one of the few interchange stations in the entire metro network.
- It serves as a principal interchange point between the Red and Green Lines.
- It serves as an entrance for visitors who come to discover traditional souks, the Creek, and cultural centers.
- It is crucial for daily transport linking old Dubai with new Dubai.
In short, if the Dubai Metro is the city’s circulatory system, Union Station is among its arteries.
Fast Facts About Union Metro Station (2025 Update)
- Station Name: Union (formerly Union Square)
- Opening Year: 2009
- Operator: Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
- Accessibility: Fully accessible for people of determination
- Facilities: Shops, ATMs, ticket counters, elevators, escalators, customer service centers
Location: The Strategic Heart of Deira
Landmarks Nearby:
- Al Ghurair Centre – Dubai’s oldest mall
- Deira Clocktower – Popular Dubai landmark
- Dubai Creek – Within minutes, it features a ride on an Abra and creek views
- Old Souks – Spice Souk, Gold Souk, and other old markets are within proximity
Pro Tip: If you’re venturing into old Dubai or taking a flight through Dubai International Airport (DXB), Union Station has smooth connections.
The Metro Lines at Union Station
- Red Line
The Red Line is the backbone of Dubai Metro, serving the length of the city from:
Centre point Station (Rashidiya)
To Expo 2020 / Gardens Station, going through major stops such as Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Marina.
Union Station is one of the major interchange stops along the route, particularly for commuters transferring between old and new Dubai.
- Green Line
The Green Line serves the historic and cultural center of Dubai, connecting:
Etisalat by e& Station (Al Qusais area)
Union Metro Station is the place where these two lines intersect, providing unparalleled connectivity within the city.
Fun Fact: More than 30% of daily metro commuters travel through interchange stations such as Union, stressing its significance.
Facilities and Commuter Experience
Dubai’s Union Metro Station isn’t just functional—it’s designed for convenience, efficiency, and accessibility.
Inside the Station:
- Spacious platforms and clear signage
- Elevators and escalators for easy movement
- Accessible routes for people of determination
- RTA customer service desks
- Shops, snack kiosks, and vending machines
- Public toilets and seating areas
- Free Wi-Fi available through Dubai Metro’s network
The design of the station is a fusion of modernity and cultural influences, with Arabic patterns discreetly woven into its architecture.
Tip: At rush hours (7-9 AM & 5-7 PM), the station gets jammed—visit accordingly if you have luggage or are traveling with kids.
Union Metro Station Bus Connections
Union Metro is not just trains. The nearby Union Square Bus Station offers connections to multiple city and intercity buses, ensuring your travel is hassle-free.
Principal Bus Routes from Union Square:
- E series: Intercity buses to Sharjah and other Emirates
- 77, 91A: To Dubai Creek and business districts
If you’re using the metro and bus together, Union Station is a perfect transit location.
Finding Nearby Attractions
- Al Ghurair Centre
Perfect for shopping, dining, and entertainment, this historic mall blends traditional charm with modern retail.
- Deira Clocktower
An Instagram-worthy landmark symbolizing Dubai’s rapid growth.
- Dubai Creek and Abra Rides
Just a short go away, hop onto a traditional craft for a scenic ride across the stream.
- Old Souks
Experience authentic Dubai at the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk—all easily accessible from Union Station.
- Al Rigga Nightlife & Dining
Walk around local restaurants, budget hotels, and street food stalls teeming with activity.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Utilizing Union Metro Station
Advantages:
- Central location with Red and Green Line connectivity
- Convenient transfers between metro lines
- Nearness to historical and cultural sites
- Fully accessible for every commuter
- Nearby bus connections for extended commutes
Disadvantages:
- Can become crowded during peak hours
- Limited car parking in the area
- Tourist-populated area can result in crowded environment
- Adjacent traffic may create delays if traveling by taxi
- Union Metro Station Timings (2025 Update)
Dubai Metro Working Times:
Day Working Times
Monday to Thursday 5:00 AM – Midnight
Friday 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM (next day)
Saturday 5:00 AM – Midnight
Sunday 8:00 AM – Midnight
Note: Operating hours may be extended during public holidays, events, or busy seasons.
Real-World Applications: Who Benefits Most?
- Daily Commuters:
If you have a job in Deira, Bur Dubai, or along Sheikh Zayed Road, Union Station is your savior.
- Tourists:
Access Old Dubai’s charm, souks, and Creek adventures—all without needing taxis.
- Airport Travelers:
Heading to DXB Airport? Hop on the Red Line from Union for a direct connection to Terminal 1 & 3.
- Shoppers & Explorers:
Jump between malls, markets, and hidden gems with Union Station as your starting point.
Passenger Navigation in Union Metro Station: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Union Metro Station is perhaps one of Dubai’s biggest interchange stations, but passenger navigation does not have to be daunting. A first-time metro rider, tourist, or regular commuter, you can save time and stress by learning how to navigate around Union Station.
Here is a useful, step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the station:
Step 1: Get Familiar with the Layout
It’s laid out for easy passenger movement, but because it’s so large, knowing the layout is helpful:
Green Line Platforms: One level
Red Line Platforms: Another parallel level
Entrances/Exits at several points along Union Square and surrounding streets
Step 2: Keep to the Signage
- Red Signs – Direct you to the Red Line platforms
- Green Signs – Direct you to Green Line trains
- Exit Signs – Direct you to the closest station exits
- Interchange Icons – Indicate transfer routes between lines
Pro Tip: Check for overhead digital screens—they show next train arrival, directions, and platform numbers in real time.
Step 3: Changing Between Red and Green Lines
Changing between lines at Union Station is easy:
- Step off your train
- Take escalators, lifts, or stairs to the right level
- No need to leave the station—interchanges occur all within the paid zone
Step 4: Identify the Correct Exit
Union Station offers several exits leading to different parts of Deira:
Exit Leads To
Exit 1 Union Square, Al Ghurair Centre, buses
Exit 2 Al Maktoum Road, Deira Clocktower
Exit 3 Dubai Creek, Old Souks, Abra station
Tip for Tourists: If you’re visiting the Gold Souk or Spice Souk, use Exit 3 and follow directions toward the Creek side.
Step 5: Accessibility for All
Union Station is made inclusivity-friendly:
- Determination elevators
- Tactile paths for the visually impaired
- Ramps and accessible ticket counters
- Priority seating
If you need help, stop by the RTA customer service desk near the main concourse.
Step 6: Nol Cards and Ticketing
To travel on Dubai Metro:
- Top up Cards at ticket machines in the station
- Fares are calculated based on zones—Union Station sits in Zone 5, a central location
For tourists, 1-day unlimited travel passes are available and valid across metro, tram, and buses.
Step 7: Bus and Taxi Connections
Once outside, you’ll find:
- Official RTA taxis available at marked ranks
- Pedestrian walkways connecting nearby hotels, malls, and shops
Tip: If you’re taking an intercity bus to Sharjah or Ajman, double-check the timetable at the bus stop situated right outside the station.
Last Passenger Navigation Tips
- Steer clear of rush hours (7–9 AM & 5–7 PM) for a smoother ride
- Get the RTA S’hail app for real-time directions and route planning
- Bring a charged Nol Card to skip ticket machine queues
- Hear bilingual announcements (English & Arabic) within the station
- Be attentive to platform screens displaying next train times
Conclusion
Union Metro Station is not only a transport hub—it’s where Dubai’s vibrant heritage comes together with contemporary mobility. Whether you’re a local commuting through your day, a tourist discovering historic Deira, or even just someone who’s grateful for efficient transportation—Union Station is a key part of your travel experience.
As Dubai expands and its metro system grows (with pending ventures such as the Blue Line), Union Metro Station is still an integral bridge within the city’s vibrant transport network.
