Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa: Route, Fare and Tips
How to Reach Burj Khalifa by Dubai Metro
Getting to Burj Khalifa doesn't have to mean a taxi or a traffic jam. Dubai Metro drops you within a short walk of the world's tallest tower, and the whole journey costs just a few dirhams. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident skipping the car, the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa route is by far the smartest way to get there. You can check your exact fare using the calculator on this site before you head out.
The Nearest Metro Station to Burj Khalifa
The closest Dubai Metro station to Burj Khalifa is Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station on the Red Line. Despite the name, the station is not directly below the tower. From the station, you have two options to complete the journey.
Walking route options from the station:
- Walk through Dubai Mall (air-conditioned, around 15 to 20 minutes)
- Take a taxi or ride-hail from the station (5 minutes, around AED 10 to 15)
The indoor walk through Dubai Mall is the most popular choice, especially during summer when outdoor temperatures can exceed 40°C.
Which Metro Line Goes to Burj Khalifa
The Red Line is the one you need. It runs from Rashidiya near Dubai Airport Terminal 1 all the way to UAE Exchange, passing through major hubs like Union, BurJuman, and Business Bay. Check the full Dubai Metro map to see the complete Red Line route.
Key Red Line stops near Burj Khalifa:
- Union (interchange with Green Line)
- BurJuman (interchange with Green Line)
- Business Bay
- Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall — your stop
- Financial Centre
Dubai Metro Fare to Burj Khalifa
Fares depend on how many zones you travel through. Dubai Metro uses a zone-based fare system. See the full Dubai Metro fares guide for all zone breakdowns.
- Dubai Airport T3 - 2 zones - AED 5.00
- Union Station - 2 zones - AED 5.00
- Dubai Marina - 2 zones - AED 5.00
- Abu Hail - 3 zones - AED 7.50
Always tap in and tap out with your Nol card. Fares are calculated automatically by the system.
Metro Timings You Should Know
Dubai Metro runs seven days a week. See the full Dubai Metro timings guide for weekend and public holiday hours.
- Saturday to Thursday: 5:00 AM to midnight
- Friday: 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM
- Public holidays: extended hours often apply
If you're planning to visit Burj Khalifa at night for the light show or Dubai Fountain, the metro runs late enough on most nights to get you back.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Book your Burj Khalifa tickets in advance online to skip queues
- Arrive at the station off-peak (before 9 AM or after 7 PM) to avoid crowds
- The metro to Dubai Mall exit leads directly to the indoor walkway to the tower
- Gold Class cabins are available if you want a quieter, more comfortable ride
For more things to do along the Red Line, check out the top attractions near Dubai Metro Red Line stations.
What's Around the Station
Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station puts you right in the heart of Downtown Dubai. From here you can walk to the Dubai Fountain, Dubai Opera, Souk Al Bahar, and the start of Sheikh Zayed Road. Browse the full attractions guide to plan your full visit.
FAQs About Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa
Is there a direct metro to Burj Khalifa?
Yes. The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station on the Red Line is the closest station. From there, walk through Dubai Mall or take a short taxi.
How long does it take to walk from the metro to Burj Khalifa?
Around 15 to 20 minutes through Dubai Mall, or 25 to 30 minutes if you walk outside.
What is the metro fare from Dubai Airport to Burj Khalifa?
From Terminal 3, it costs AED 5.00 using a Nol card, travelling through 2 zones on the Red Line. There is also an additional AED 5.00 airport surcharge when departing from the airport station.
Do I need a Nol card to use the metro?
Yes. You need a Nol card to tap in and out. You can buy one at any metro station for AED 25 (includes AED 19 credit).
What time does the last metro leave Burj Khalifa station?
On most nights the last train is around midnight. On Fridays it runs until 1:00 AM. Check the timings page for the latest schedule.
Can I take the metro back after the Dubai Fountain show?
Yes. The fountain shows run at 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM on weekdays and every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM on weekends. The metro runs until midnight so you have plenty of time.
Conclusion
Taking the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa is the easiest, cheapest, and most reliable way to visit. With the Red Line stopping directly at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, you avoid traffic, save on parking, and arrive stress-free. Use the route planner to map your exact journey, and explore more guides at dubaimetrorails.com.