Al Khail Metro Station (R35), previously known as Nakheel Metro Station, is a major metro hub in Dubai’s comprehensive public transport network. It is a significant metro that operates on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro.
The metro accommodates thousands of passengers every day, transporting millions of people. The station is a delight for those who are fond of exploring the great things in this landscape.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into everything that you need to know to make your journey more unforgettable, incorporating the Al Khail Metro Station timings, route details, attributes, fare information, and tips on elevating your travel experience.
Must Read: Ibn Battuta Metro StationAl Khail Metro Station Old Name & Renaming History
Renamed
The station is one of the most occupied and most popular stations in Dubai’s congestion. The station was well inaugurated and founded on 15 October 2010 as a Nakheel Metro Station (Ref. Wikipedia). Subsequently, for some huge reason, the metro station was renamed to the Al Khail Metro Station on November 24, 2020.
As of the updated report of Wikipedia on March 19, 2025, the station was further renamed as Al Fardan Exchange. However, the station is still known by the name of the Al Khail Metro Station.
Al Khail (Nakheel) Metro Station Location
Al Khail Station is strategically located 20 kilometres (12 miles) southwest of Downtown Dubai, on Sheikh Zayed Street and between Dubai Media City and the Emirates Golf Club.
It is in the vicinity of the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre and the American University in Dubai.
Red Line & Station Code R35 Details
This is the only station where the train departs and arrives from the left on the Red Line and is accessible through the walkway for pedestrians.
It is probably located in the Al Quoz neighbourhood. Shobha Realty and Dubai Internet City are adjacent to Al Khail Metro Station on the Red Line.
Al Khail Metro Station Exits & Directions
The station is streamlined with four major exit points that represent specific entry points. Here’s how:
| Gate 1 | Direct link to Al Khail Road cycling track |
| Gate 2 | Covered walkway to Dubai Hills Mall (5-min walk) |
| Gate 3 | EV charging station + smart taxi queue |
| Gate 4 | Connection to Meydan Heights residential area |
Al Khail Metro Station Timings
The Al Khail Metro Station timings are categorised into 2 segments: weekday and weekend, managed by the prominent Road and Transport Authority (RTA). The timing is implemented identically throughout every day.
Here I have extended the complete Al Khail Metro Station timetable:
| Day | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 5:00 AM | 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Friday | 5:00 AM | 1:00 AM (Next day) |
| Saturday | 5:00 AM | 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM | 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
The metro arrives at an interval of every 3-4 minutes during rush hours, and it may take slightly longer during off-peak hours at every 7-8 minutes.
There may be slight changes to this on special days such as Eid and National Day.
Station Architecture and Facilities
The station is built with a modern, state-of-the-art design, which is categorised as a type 3 elevated station. It spans 52.1 kilometres.
It covers at least 29 stations from Rashidiya to UAE Exchange, passing through major locations such as Dubai International Airport, Deira, Karama, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina. It is still striving for future path expansion.
Besides that, the station offers a variety of modern amenities for all, whether you’re a senior, a pregnant woman or a person with disabilities. The station has also been streamlined with elevators and ramps for quick access.
Connecting Transport Options
Some buses are dedicated to serving Al Khail Metro Station, where bus 83 starts its journey from here towards Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, making a few stops along the way, such as Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Knowledge Village, Max Metro Station, Karama and Sharaf DG Metro Station.
On the other hand, there is another bus, which is feeder bus F56, which departs for Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Knowledge Village.
Ticketing and Fare Structure
The RTA has determined the fare, which relies on the zone. However, the station falls under fare zone 2. The ticket price is compensated in terms of the senior citizens exceeding 60 years and the adults under 10 years. Apart from that, the children under 5 can travel the entire UAE for free without paying any costs.
Fares can be paid via Nol card, which is generally considered a smart card utilised for faster payments, whether it’s a bus or a metro. The NOL card can be bought at any bus station or metro station, as well as at any customer service counter, seamlessly.
Nearby Places & Landmarks
There is a diverse range of lucrative places, malls that include parks, residential areas, other commercial establishments and hotels to visit during your itinerary, especially for food.
Here is a somewhat expected name for you to be fond of during your travelling duration.
Nearby Hotels
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City (0.4 miles)
- Media One Hotel (0.4 miles)
- Arjaan by Rotana – Dubai Media City (0.6 miles)
- Residence & Spa, Dubai at One&Only Royal Mirage (0.6 miles)
Nearby Station
- Noor Bank Metro Station
Nearby Shopping Mall
- Al Khail Mall
Practical Information for Commuters
If you are a first-time visitor, you must keep some key points in mind. Here is a glimpse of the main points:
- An individual must have an NOL card that ensures quick payment and encourages them to travel.
- You must download the S’hail mobile app to track the real-time schedules.
- You should arrive at the station 10 to 15 minutes early.
- Plan your itinerary to avoid further problems.
- If you lose your luggage or it is stolen, you can get it back by contacting the station staff.
FAQs About Al Khail Metro Station
What are the operating hours of Al Khail Metro Station?
The station usually operates in the early morning at 5:00 AM and concludes around 11:00 to 12:00.
How do I get from Al Khail Metro Station to Dubai Airport?
It is very easy to get to Dubai Airport from Al Khail Metro Station. First, you need to board the Al Khail Metro, which will go directly to Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 stations of Dubai International Airport.
Which Red Line station is Nakheel?
The station lies on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro.
Why was Al Khail Metro Station renamed?
The station was renamed in March 2025 under a naming rights agreement between RTA and Al Fardan Exchange.
Is Nakheel Metro Station the same as Al Khail?
Yes, Nakheel Metro Station and Al Khail Metro Station are the same place.
Conclusion
In my opinion, Al Khail Metro Station is very crucial for people in Dubai and tourists. It is renamed two times; I don’t know why, but its archaic name is Nakheel, and thereafter it stands for Al Khail, and now it is known as Al Fardan Exchange.
The station has facilitated modern facilities like shops, restrooms, a prayer room, etc. It helps people to grab their aspirations in terms of travelling and elevate their experiences.
