Multiple renaming phases occurred at Dubai Metro stations since their establishment and the most recent adjustments happened during 2025. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) maintains its business branding program for metro stations while allowing corporate sponsors to brand their chosen stations. Regular Dubai Metro users must stay informed about station name changes because this knowledge helps with traveling without confusion.
Recent Dubai Metro Station Renamings
These are the newest changes in names which have occurred:
- Al Khail Metro Station → Renamed Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station
- Mashreq Metro Station → Renamed InsuranceMarket.ae Metro Station
- Al Safa Metro Station → Renamed Onpassive Metro Station
- Umm Al Sheif Metro Station → Renamed Equiti Metro Station
- Al Rashidiya Metro Station → Renamed Centrepoint Metro Station
- Al Jaffliya Metro Station → Renamed Max Metro Station
- Dubai Marina Metro Station → Renamed Sobha Realty Metro Station
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) Metro Station → Renamed Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) Metro Station
- Nakheel Harbour Metro Station → Renamed Jebel Ali Metro Station
- Original Jebel Ali Metro Station → Renamed UAE Exchange Metro Station
On the Green Line:
- Palm Deira Metro Station → Renamed Gold Souq Metro Station
- Al Fahidi Metro Station → Renamed Sharaf DG Metro Station
- Etisalat Metro Station → Renamed e& Metro Station (reflecting the telecom company’s rebranding)
Why Do Dubai Metro Stations Get Renamed?
The RTA introduced the station renaming program through its naming rights program during 2009. The program creates partnerships between government and private entities which boosts business visibility alongside advancing metro system development initiatives.
The Al Khail Metro Station received its recent renaming after Al Fardan Exchange purchased the exclusive station branding rights. The renaming agreements enable businesses to reach large numbers of daily passengers who use Dubai Metro stations.
Overview of the Dubai Metro Network
Dubai Metro operates as the longest driverless railway network and automated rail system worldwide through its two distinct lines:
- Red Line: 35 stations
- Green Line: 20 stations
- Total Metro Stations: 55, including 9 underground stations
View the detailed map at RTA Metro Map.
Dubai Metro Red Line
The Red Line operates along Sheikh Zayed Road and serves Dubai International Airport before moving through Burj Khalifa and connecting to Dubai Mall, Business Bay, DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) and continues along Dubai Marina to Mall of the Emirates.
- At Jebel Ali Metro Station, the line splits into two branches:
- One extends to Expo 2020 Metro Station (in Expo City Dubai)
- The other reaches UAE Exchange Metro Station
2024 update: The 2024 service update at Jebel Ali allows passengers to board trains directly from Centrepoint to Expo 2020 and Centrepoint to UAE Exchange without needing to change trains.
Dubai Metro Green Line
The Green Line serves older sections of Dubai by traveling between e& Metro Station (which was formerly named Etisalat) and Dubai Creek Metro Station. The route links Al Fahidi with Deira as well as the Gold Souq through its path.
Interchange Stations: Where to Switch Lines
- Burjuman Metro Station together with Union Metro Station operate between the Red and Green Lines.
- The Dubai Tram network becomes more accessible through the connection provided by DMCC Metro Station and Sobha Realty Metro Station.
Future Expansion: The Blue Line (2025 – 2029)
The upcoming Dubai Metro’s Blue Line expansion introduces 14 stations extending across a 30-kilometre distance which connects Dubai International Airport to major sites:
- Mirdif
- Al Warqa
- International City
- Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Academic City
- Ras Al Khor Industrial Area
- Dubai Creek Harbour
- Dubai Festival City
Construction begins in April 2025, with phased openings scheduled until 2029.
The Dubai urban expansion includes metro station renaming as a strategic move to build branding and increase transit comfort for users. Keeping track of these name changes benefits both residents and visitors who intend to use the Dubai Metro system without inconvenience. Updated information regarding renamings is available at the Dubai RTA website and station announcements during your trip.
