Metro Penalties in Dubai: A Guide to Avoiding Fines and Ensuring Compliance
Public transportation in Dubai, including the metro, buses, and trams, is known for its efficiency and cleanliness. However, to maintain order and safety, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) enforces strict rules with penalties for violations. Understanding these fines can help passengers avoid unnecessary charges and contribute to a smoother commute for everyone. It has a Vast network and will even expand in coming years. See the Dubai Metro map.
Common Metro Violations and Their Penalties
Below is a breakdown of key metro violations and their corresponding fines in AED:
| Violation Description | Fine (AED) |
| Fare Evasion & Card Misuse | |
| Not paying the correct fare | 200 |
| Failure to present a Unified Card upon request | 200 |
| Using a card designated for someone else | 200 |
| Using an expired or invalid card | 200 |
| Selling Unified Cards without permission | 200 |
| Using a counterfeit card | 500 |
Public Conduct & Hygiene
- Causing disturbance or inconvenience to others | 100 |
- Eating or drinking in prohibited areas | 100 |
- Sleeping in restricted areas | 300 |
- Spitting, littering, or compromising cleanliness | 200 |
- Smoking inside metro facilities | 200 |
- Putting feet on seats | 100 |
Safety & Security Violations
- Damaging or vandalizing metro property | 2,000 |
- Carrying hazardous materials (weapons, flammable items) | 1,000 |
- Misusing emergency exits or buttons | 2,000 |
- Distracting the metro driver | 200 |
- Carrying alcoholic beverages | 500 |
Unauthorized Access & Misbehavior
- Sitting in restricted areas (e.g., priority seating) | 100 |
- Entering restricted zones | 100 |
- Boarding by climbing or jumping | 100 |
- Opening doors while the metro is moving | 100 |
- Parking beyond permitted time in metro user zones | 100/day (up to 1,000) |
How to Avoid Metro Penalties
- Always Pay the Correct Fare – Ensure your Nol card is valid and has sufficient balance. The procedure to the NOL Card Balance check is simple.
- Follow Hygiene Rules – Avoid eating, drinking, or littering in prohibited areas.
- Respect Priority Seating – Do not occupy seats reserved for special categories.
- Do Not Misuse Emergency Equipment – Only use emergency buttons in real emergencies.
- Carry Valid ID & Nol Card – Be prepared to present them if requested by inspectors.
Conclusion
Dubai’s metro system is designed for convenience, but adherence to rules is essential. By understanding these penalties, passengers can avoid fines and contribute to a pleasant commuting experience for everyone.
Stay informed, travel responsibly, and enjoy a hassle-free metro ride in Dubai!
