Union Metro Bus Station 2026: Metro Lines, Bus Routes & Timings

Union Metro Station and Union Bus Station form one of the most important public transport interchanges in Deira, Dubai.

Union Metro Station connects the Dubai Metro Red Line and Green Line, while the nearby Union Square Bus Station provides local, feeder and intercity bus services.

Together, they make Union a convenient transport hub for passengers travelling around Deira, across Dubai, or toward destinations such as Sharjah, Ajman and Fujairah.

The area is particularly useful because passengers can easily transfer between:

  • Red Line Metro services;
  • Green Line Metro services;
  • local RTA buses;
  • feeder buses;
  • intercity buses;
  • taxis;
  • and nearby Deira transport connections.

Union Metro Bus Station Quick Guide

DetailInformation
Metro stationUnion Metro Station
Bus terminalUnion Square Bus Station
AreaDeira, Dubai
Metro codesR18 / G20
Metro linesRed Line and Green Line
OperatorDubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
Main nearby roadOmar Bin Al Khattab Road
Other major roadAl Maktoum Road
Metro paymentNol Card
RTA bus paymentNol Card
Sharjah routeE303
Ajman routeE400
Fujairah routeE700
Global VillageSeasonal Route 103
Nearby mallAl Ghurair Centre
Nearby areasDubai Creek, Baniyas Square, Al Rigga
AccessibilityStep-free access available

Is Union Metro Station the Same as Union Bus Station?

No, but they are located very close to each other.

Union Metro Station is the underground Dubai Metro interchange where the Red Line and Green Line meet.

Union Square Bus Station is the nearby RTA bus terminal serving local and intercity bus routes.

The two facilities are only a short walk apart, which is why many passengers informally refer to the whole area as:

  • Union Metro Bus Station
  • Union Bus Station
  • Union Metro Station
  • Union Square Bus Station

When planning a journey, check whether your departure is from the Metro station or the bus station, because they are connected but not exactly the same facility.

Where Is Union Metro Station?

Union Metro Station is located beneath Union Square in Deira, close to the intersection of:

  • Omar Bin Al Khattab Road;
  • and Al Maktoum Road.

The location puts the station in the heart of old and central Deira.

Nearby landmarks include:

  • Al Ghurair Centre;
  • Dubai Creek;
  • Baniyas Square;
  • Deira Clocktower;
  • Al Rigga;
  • Twin Towers;
  • Gold Souq;
  • and Union Square.

Union Metro Station Codes

Union is identified by two station codes because it serves two Metro lines.

Metro LineStation Code
Red LineR18
Green LineG20

This dual-line connection is what makes Union one of Dubai’s most useful interchange stations.

Red Line and Green Line at Union Metro Station

Union is one of the places where passengers can transfer directly between the Red Line and Green Line.

You do not need to leave the Metro system to change lines.

Red Line From Union

The Red Line provides access toward destinations such as:

  • Al Rigga;
  • City Centre Deira;
  • Dubai International Airport;
  • BurJuman;
  • World Trade Centre;
  • Emirates Towers;
  • Financial Centre;
  • Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall;
  • Business Bay;
  • Mall of the Emirates;
  • Dubai Marina;
  • Jebel Ali;
  • and Expo 2020.

Green Line From Union

The Green Line provides access toward:

  • Salah Al Din;
  • Abu Hail;
  • Al Qiyadah;
  • Stadium;
  • Al Nahda;
  • Baniyas Square;
  • Gold Souq;
  • Al Ras;
  • Al Ghubaiba;
  • Sharaf DG;
  • Dubai Healthcare City;
  • Al Jadaf;
  • and Creek.

How to Change Between the Red and Green Lines

Changing Metro lines at Union is straightforward.

  1. Exit your arriving train.
  2. Follow signs for the Red Line or Green Line.
  3. Use the internal escalators, lifts or walkways.
  4. Check the destination shown on the platform.
  5. Board the correct direction.

You do not need to tap out and re-enter simply to change Metro lines.

Union Metro Station Timings

Union follows the general Dubai Metro operating schedule.

Typical network operating hours are approximately:

DayGeneral Metro Hours
Monday–ThursdayAround 5:00 AM–12:00 AM
FridayAround 5:00 AM–1:00 AM
SaturdayAround 5:00 AM–12:00 AM
SundayAround 8:00 AM–12:00 AM

First and last train times at Union depend on:

  • Metro line;
  • direction;
  • day of the week;
  • public holidays;
  • and operational changes.

Union Metro Green Line Timings

Toward e& / Etisalat Direction

DayFirst TrainLast Train
Monday–Thursday5:05 AM11:47 PM
Friday5:05 AM12:46 AM
Saturday5:05 AM11:45 PM
SundayAround 8:05 AM11:44 PM

Toward Creek

DayFirst TrainLast Train
Monday–Thursday5:00 AM11:42 PM
Friday5:00 AM12:41 AM
Saturday5:00 AM11:41 PM
SundayAround 8:00 AM11:41 PM

Union Metro Red Line Timings

Toward Expo 2020

DayFirst TrainLast Train
Monday–Thursday5:02 AM11:06 PM
Friday5:02 AM12:05 AM
Saturday5:02 AM11:06 PM
SundayAround 8:02 AM11:06 PM

Toward Centrepoint

DayTiming Guidance
Monday–ThursdayFirst train around 5:12 AM
FridayFirst train around 5:12 AM
SaturdayFirst train around 5:12 AM
SundayCheck the live RTA schedule
Typical last trainAround 11:50 PM, later on Friday

For Sunday travel, especially toward Centrepoint, checking the live RTA timetable before leaving is the safest option.

Wednesday Morning Metro Schedule at Union

A recent Wednesday timetable shows frequent Red and Green Line services in the early morning.

LineDirectionTime
M1Jebel Ali5:43 AM
M1Jebel Ali5:47 AM
M2Creek5:48 AM
M2Etisalat/e&5:49 AM
M1Jebel Ali5:51 AM
M2Creek5:54 AM
M1Jebel Ali5:55 AM
M2Etisalat/e&5:55 AM
M1Jebel Ali5:59 AM
M2Creek6:00 AM
M2Etisalat/e&6:01 AM
M1Jebel Ali6:03 AM
M2Creek6:06 AM
M1Jebel Ali6:07 AM
M2Etisalat/e&6:07 AM
M2Creek6:08 AM
M2Etisalat/e&6:09 AM
M1Jebel Ali6:11 AM
M2Creek6:11 AM
M2Etisalat/e&6:12 AM
M2Creek6:14 AM
M1Jebel Ali6:15 AM
M2Etisalat/e&6:15 AM
M1Centrepoint direction6:16 AM
M2Creek6:17 AM

Individual departure times can change, so check the live Metro schedule when timing is critical.

Union Bus Station Timings

Union Square Bus Station follows route-specific RTA operating hours.

Most ordinary services run from:

early morning until close to midnight

However, each bus has its own:

  • first departure;
  • last departure;
  • frequency;
  • weekend schedule;
  • and public-holiday timetable.

Some nearby airport services also operate during the night.

Main Bus Routes Near Union Metro Station

Several RTA routes serve Union Metro Station and the surrounding bus stops.

RouteMain Connection
C01 / C1Airport Terminal 3 ↔ Satwa
C04 / C4Gold Souq ↔ Government Workshop
C05 / C5Gold Souq ↔ Al Ghubaiba
C09 / C9Satwa ↔ Hor Al Anz / Qiyadah
11AGold Souq ↔ Awir
25Centrepoint/Rashidiya area ↔ Gold Souq
27Gold Souq ↔ Dubai Mall
53Gold Souq corridor
77Baniyas ↔ Al Garhoud
X64Al Baraha ↔ Ras Al Khor
F01Union Metro feeder loop
F04Al Garhoud ↔ Sabkha area

Union Metro Bus Stops

Several bus stops are located immediately around the Metro station.

Bus StopApprox. Walking Time
Union Metro Bus Stop 3-11 min
Union Metro Bus Stop 1-21 min
Union Metro Bus Stop A – 021 min
Union Metro Bus Stop 1-13 min
Union Metro Bus Stop C – 023 min
Union Metro Bus Stop 2-13 min
Union Square Bus Station – 013 min

Different routes use different stops, so always check the exact stop code before waiting.

Union Square Bus Station

Union Square Bus Station is the main bus terminal beside the Metro interchange.

It serves both Dubai routes and selected inter-emirate services.

Important long-distance routes include:

RouteDestination
E303Sharjah – Al Jubail Bus Station
E400Ajman
E700Fujairah
103Global Village – seasonal

These are particularly important for commuters who use the Metro to reach Union and then continue by intercity bus.

Union Bus Station to Sharjah

The E303 connects Union Square Bus Station with Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah.

E303 Quick Guide

DetailInformation
RouteE303
OriginUnion Square Bus Station
DestinationAl Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah
Transport typeIntercity bus
Approx. travel time35–50 min under lighter conditions
Peak-hour travelCan take longer

This is one of the most important cross-emirate commuter routes in the Union area.

Dubai–Sharjah traffic can significantly affect journey times.

Best Time to Travel From Union to Sharjah

Peak periods can be particularly busy:

Morning: approximately 7:00–9:30 AM

Evening: approximately 5:00–8:00 PM

During these periods:

  • queues can be longer;
  • buses can fill quickly;
  • and road traffic toward Sharjah can increase journey time.

Arrive early if you need a particular departure.

Union Bus Station to Ajman

The E400 serves the Union–Ajman corridor.

DetailInformation
RouteE400
OriginUnion Square Bus Station
DestinationAjman
Service typeIntercity

Ajman passengers should confirm the current stop, timetable and fare before travel.

Union Bus Station to Fujairah

The E700 provides a long-distance connection toward Fujairah.

DetailInformation
RouteE700
OriginUnion Square Bus Station
DestinationFujairah
ServiceIntercity

Because Fujairah is a long-distance journey, check departure times before going to Union.

Union Bus Station to Global Village

A seasonal service associated with Union is Route 103.

Route 103

Union Square Bus Station → Global Village

This service is seasonal and operates when Global Village transport services are active.

Check:

  • operating dates;
  • first bus;
  • last bus;
  • frequency;
  • and current Global Village season

before travelling.

Union to Dubai Airport

Union is one of the most convenient parts of Deira for airport access.

By Metro

Use the Red Line toward the airport/Centrepoint side.

The Red Line provides direct access to:

  • Airport Terminal 1;
  • Airport Terminal 3;
  • and other stations along the airport corridor.

By Bus

The C01/C1 also serves the Airport Terminal 3–Satwa corridor and passes through the broader Union area.

For most passengers with luggage, the Metro can be the simplest option when operating.

Union Metro Station to Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall can be reached conveniently on the Red Line.

By Metro

  1. Board the Red Line from Union.
  2. Travel toward the southern Dubai direction.
  3. Exit at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station.

Approximate Metro travel time:

around 17–20 minutes

Union Metro Station to BurJuman

BurJuman is one of the next major interchange areas south of Union.

Approximate journey:

around 5 minutes

Both Union and BurJuman provide Red–Green Line connections.

Union Metro Station to Deira City Centre

Use the Red Line.

Approximate journey:

around 7 minutes

This is useful for:

  • City Centre Deira;
  • nearby hotels;
  • offices;
  • and Deira City Centre transport connections.

Union Metro Station to Al Rigga

Al Rigga is very close to Union on the Red Line.

Approximate journey:

around 3 minutes

Union Metro Station to Gold Souq

Gold Souq is conveniently reached using the Green Line.

Approximate journey:

around 6 minutes

This route is useful for passengers visiting:

  • Gold Souq;
  • Spice Souq;
  • traditional Deira markets;
  • and nearby commercial streets.

Union Metro Station to Baniyas Square

Baniyas Square is a nearby Green Line stop.

Approximate journey:

around 2 minutes

It is also possible to access parts of the Baniyas area from Union on foot depending on your destination.

Union Metro Station to Al Ghubaiba

Take the Green Line toward Creek.

Approximate Metro journey:

around 8 minutes

Al Ghubaiba is useful for:

  • Bur Dubai;
  • abra connections;
  • Al Fahidi;
  • Dubai Creek;
  • and intercity buses.

Union Metro Station to Dubai Healthcare City

Use the Green Line toward Creek.

Approximate travel time:

around 12 minutes

Union Metro Station to Business Bay

Use the Red Line.

Approximate travel time:

around 19 minutes

Union Metro Station to Mall of the Emirates

Use the Red Line.

Approximate journey:

around 29 minutes

Union Metro Station to Dubai Marina

Use the Red Line toward the southern side of Dubai.

Approximate travel time:

around 35 minutes

Union Metro Station to Expo 2020

Use the relevant Red Line service toward Expo 2020.

Approximate travel time:

around 47 minutes

Check the train destination before boarding because Red Line services can follow different branches.

Popular Metro Destinations From Union

DestinationLineApprox. Travel Time
Baniyas SquareGreen2 min
Al RiggaRed3 min
BurJumanRed5 min
Al RasGreen5 min
Salah Al DinGreen5 min
Gold SouqGreen6 min
Deira City CentreRed7 min
Al FahidiGreen7 min
Al GhubaibaGreen8 min
Dubai Healthcare CityGreen12 min
Emirates TowersRed14 min
Al NahdaGreen14 min
Financial CentreRed15 min
Burj Khalifa/Dubai MallRed17 min
Business BayRed19 min
Mall of the EmiratesRed29 min
Dubai MarinaRed35 min
Expo 2020Red47 min
Jebel AliRedAround 50+ min

Actual journey times depend on waiting time, transfers and service conditions.

Nol Card at Union Metro Bus Station

Dubai Metro and RTA buses are cashless.

Passengers need a valid Nol Card or eligible Nol ticket.

Nol services are available at Union Metro Station and nearby transport facilities.

Nol Card Types

CardBest For
Nol SilverRegular commuters and repeat visitors
Nol Red TicketTourists and occasional travel
Nol GoldGold Class Metro travel
Nol BluePersonalised users and eligible concession categories

Nol Silver Card

A Nol Silver Card costs approximately AED 25, including around AED 19 travel credit.

It is a practical option for:

  • residents;
  • regular commuters;
  • and visitors using public transport repeatedly.

Nol Red Ticket

The Nol Red Ticket is more suitable for occasional journeys.

It is useful for tourists who do not expect to use Dubai transport frequently.

Can You Pay Cash on RTA Buses at Union?

No.

RTA buses are cashless.

Make sure you have:

  • a valid Nol Card;
  • or an accepted Nol ticket

before boarding.

Where Can You Recharge Nol at Union?

Nol cards can be purchased or recharged using:

  • ticket machines;
  • Metro ticket counters;
  • Nol vending machines;
  • and supported digital recharge options.

Check your balance before joining an intercity queue.

Union Metro Station Facilities

Union provides a wide range of passenger facilities.

FacilityAvailable
Ticket countersYes
Nol vending/recharge machinesYes
Air-conditioned waiting areasYes
Public toiletsYes
Digital route informationYes
Convenience storesYes
Cafés/kiosks nearbyYes
ATMsNearby
Taxi pickupYes
Accessibility facilitiesYes
Lost and found assistanceYes
Security/CCTVYes

Accessibility at Union Metro Station

Union is designed for passengers with different mobility needs.

Accessibility features include:

  • lifts;
  • ramps;
  • step-free routes;
  • tactile guidance;
  • wide pathways;
  • clear signs;
  • and station assistance.

The station is also practical for parents travelling with strollers.

Union Metro Station Exit Gates

Because Union is a large interchange, choosing the correct exit can save walking time.

Red Line Side

Common access directions include:

  • Al Musalla Road;
  • Omar Bin Al Khattab Road;
  • Baniyas Road;
  • and internal connections toward the Green Line.

Green Line Side

Exits provide access toward:

  • Al Maktoum Road;
  • Omar Bin Al Khattab Road;
  • Union Square;
  • and Al Ghurair Centre.

Follow station signs rather than relying only on the exit number because your final destination may be closer to another side of Union.

How to Reach Union Metro Bus Station

By Metro

The easiest option is to take either:

  • the Red Line;
  • or the Green Line

to Union Metro Station.

From the Metro, Union Square Bus Station is only a short walk away.

By Bus

Several buses stop directly around Union, including services such as:

  • C01;
  • C04;
  • C09;
  • 27;
  • and other local RTA routes.

By Taxi

Taxis can drop passengers near the Metro or bus terminal.

Tell the driver:

Union Metro Station, Deira

or:

Union Square Bus Station

depending on where your trip begins.

By Car

Paid public parking is available around Deira and the Union area.

Because Union is extremely busy, Metro or taxi travel can often be easier than finding parking during commuter periods.

Nearby Places Around Union Metro Station

Union’s Deira location places it close to many attractions and commercial areas.

Al Ghurair Centre

Al Ghurair Centre is one of the major shopping destinations near Union.

Approximate walking time:

8–10 minutes

The mall offers:

  • retail;
  • restaurants;
  • cafés;
  • entertainment;
  • and everyday services.

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is also nearby.

Parts of the Creek waterfront can be reached in approximately 5–10 minutes, depending on your exact destination.

Baniyas Square

Baniyas Square is accessible by:

  • Green Line;
  • local bus;
  • or walking from parts of Union.

Gold Souq and Spice Souq

The traditional Gold Souq and Spice Souq are easy to reach using the Green Line.

These areas are among Deira’s most famous visitor destinations.

Deira Clocktower

Deira Clocktower is another nearby landmark.

Approximate travel or walking time depends on your starting exit, but the broader Clocktower area is close to Union and Al Rigga.

Hotels Near Union Metro Station

Hotels located around Union and Deira include:

  • Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek
  • Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel
  • Landmark Grand Hotel
  • Comfort Inn Hotel
  • Panorama Hotel

Union is a convenient hotel area for visitors who want direct access to both Dubai Metro lines.

Best Time to Use Union Metro Bus Station

Weekday rush periods are typically busiest around:

Morning: 7:00 AM–9:30 AM

Evening: 5:00 PM–8:00 PM

During these times:

  • Metro platforms are busier;
  • intercity queues can grow;
  • buses toward Sharjah can fill quickly;
  • and traffic around Deira can slow bus journeys.

If possible, travel outside peak hours.

Tips for First-Time Passengers

Know Whether You Need the Metro or Bus Station

Union Metro Station and Union Square Bus Station are connected but separate.

Check Your Metro Direction

Union has two lines and four main directions.

Do not board simply because you see “Red Line” or “Green Line.”

Check the train destination.

Keep Your Nol Card Topped Up

Avoid discovering that you have insufficient balance when your bus or Metro train is about to leave.

Check Intercity Route Numbers

For example:

  • E303 → Sharjah
  • E400 → Ajman
  • E700 → Fujairah

Arrive Early for Sharjah Buses

Queues can become long during commuter periods.

Check Seasonal Routes

Global Village buses do not necessarily operate year-round.

Use Live RTA Journey Planning

Check current departure times before important journeys, particularly:

  • late at night;
  • on Friday;
  • on Sunday mornings;
  • during Ramadan;
  • and on public holidays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Confusing Union Metro Station With Union Bus Station

They are close, but your departure point matters.

Using the Wrong Metro Line

Union serves both Red and Green Lines.

Boarding the Correct Line in the Wrong Direction

Always check the final destination displayed on the platform.

Assuming Cash Is Accepted

RTA Metro and bus travel requires Nol payment.

Assuming Every Intercity Destination Has a Direct Union Bus

Check the route number before travel.

Ignoring Rush-Hour Queues

Sharjah and Ajman services can be especially busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Is Union Metro Station?

Union Metro Station is located in Union Square, Deira, near Omar Bin Al Khattab Road and Al Maktoum Road.

What Metro Lines Serve Union Station?

Both the Red Line and Green Line serve Union.

What Is the Union Metro Station Code?

Union is:

  • R18 on the Red Line
  • G20 on the Green Line

Is Union Metro Station the Same as Union Bus Station?

No. Union Metro Station is the Metro interchange, while Union Square Bus Station is the nearby bus terminal.

They are only a short walk apart.

How Far Is Union Bus Station From Union Metro?

The nearest Union Square bus stops are approximately 1–3 minutes on foot from the Metro station.

Is Union Metro Station Open 24 Hours?

No. Metro services follow Dubai Metro operating hours and do not run 24 hours.

What Time Does Union Metro Open?

Metro services generally begin around:

  • 5:00 AM Monday–Saturday;
  • and around 8:00 AM on Sunday.

Exact first-train times depend on direction.

What Time Is the Last Train at Union Metro?

The final train varies by day and direction.

Most services finish around midnight, with later Friday operations.

Which Bus Goes From Union to Sharjah?

Use E303 to Al Jubail Bus Station, Sharjah.

Which Bus Goes From Union to Ajman?

Use E400.

Which Bus Goes From Union to Fujairah?

Use E700.

Is There a Global Village Bus From Union?

A seasonal Route 103 connects Union Square Bus Station with Global Village when the service is operating.

Can I Reach Dubai Airport From Union Metro?

Yes. Use the Red Line toward the airport/Centrepoint direction.

Can I Reach Terminal 3 From Union?

Yes. Airport Terminal 3 is directly accessible on the Red Line.

C01/C1 also serves the broader Airport Terminal 3–Satwa corridor.

How Do I Get to Dubai Mall From Union?

Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station.

Approximate Metro journey time is around 17–20 minutes.

How Do I Get to Gold Souq From Union?

Take the Green Line.

The Metro journey is approximately 6 minutes.

How Do I Get to Al Ghubaiba From Union?

Use the Green Line toward Creek.

Approximate journey time is around 8 minutes.

Do I Need a Nol Card?

Yes. Nol is required for RTA Metro and bus travel.

Can I Buy a Nol Card at Union?

Yes. Ticket and Nol facilities are available at the Metro station.

Can I Pay Cash on RTA Buses?

No. RTA buses are cashless.

Does Union Metro Station Have Toilets?

Yes. Passenger facilities include restrooms.

Is Union Metro Station Wheelchair Accessible?

Yes. The station includes ramps, lifts and step-free access.

Is There Parking Near Union?

Yes. Paid parking is available in the surrounding Deira area.

Is Al Ghurair Centre Near Union Metro?

Yes. It is approximately an 8–10 minute walk away.

Is Dubai Creek Near Union Metro?

Yes. Dubai Creek and several historic Deira areas are nearby.

Final Union Metro Bus Station Guide

Union Metro Bus Station is one of the most useful transport areas in Dubai because it combines a major Metro interchange with a large nearby bus network.

For Metro travel:

Red Line + Green Line → Union Metro Station

For Sharjah:

E303 → Al Jubail Bus Station

For Ajman:

E400 → Ajman

For Fujairah:

E700 → Fujairah

For Global Village:

103 → Seasonal service

For Dubai Airport:

Use the Red Line toward the airport/Centrepoint direction.

For all RTA Metro and bus travel, keep a valid Nol Card with sufficient balance.

The most important thing for first-time passengers is to remember that Union Metro Station and Union Square Bus Station are adjacent but separate facilities. Check your route, line, direction and exact stop before travelling, especially during peak hours or when catching an intercity bus.