Whether you are a tourist or a resident, the Dubai Metro provides a quick and hassle-free ride to your destination. The Ibn Battuta Metro Station is an important link in this network, situated along the bustling Sheikh Zayed Road, next to its namesake, the popular Ibn Battuta Mall.
In operation since 2010, the station effectively connects Jebel Ali and its surrounding communities to Dubai’s major hotspots. Here’s what you can expect to find in this guide:
- Which metro line does Ibn Battuta serve?
- Metro routes from Ibn Battuta
- Train schedules and frequency
- What are the facilities available at Ibn Battuta Metro Station?
- Getting around from Ibn Battuta Metro Station
- Things to do around Ibn Battuta
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Which metro line does Ibn Battuta serve?
The Ibn Battuta Metro Station is located on the southern end of the Dubai Metro’s Red Line (M1). Its station code is R39, and it belongs to fare zone 2. The station provides quick access to Dubai International Airport and major recreational hubs, as well as numerous business districts and premier universities.
Metro routes from Ibn Battuta
Once at Ibn Battuta Metro Station, you can take a train either towards Centrepoint or Life Pharmacy via the Red Line (M1). You can also access Route 2020, which branches out from the Red Line and terminates at Expo 2020.
Towards Centrepoint (Formerly Rashidiya)
If you want to head towards the north or visit key central spots, you can hop on the train towards Centrepoint. This route connects to various business hubs and entertainment venues in the city, eventually leading up to Dubai International Airport.
This route also allows you to access areas connected via the Green Line (M2). You can take a train towards Centrepoint and switch routes at the Union or Burjuman stations that serve as interchange stations between the two metro lines.
The destinations you can explore in this direction include:
- Business Bay
- Dubai Mall
- Burj Khalifa
- City Centre Diera
- Dubai International Airport
Towards Life Pharmacy (Formerly UAE Exchange)
The Life Pharmacy Metro station is the southernmost end of the Red Line. Ibn Battuta and Life Pharmacy have just a couple of stops in between. You can take the train in this direction if you wish to explore the Jebel Ali Village region.
This route allows access to destinations such as:
- Jebel Ali Industrial Area
- Festival Plaza Mall
- Legoland Dubai
Towards Expo 2020
The Red Line branches out at the National Paints station, formerly known as the Jebel Ali station, and features a separate link that leads towards Expo 2020. If you want to explore destinations in this direction, you need to board the train from Ibn Battuta towards Centrepoint and switch routes at National Paints.
Alternatively, you could also board Feeder buses that take you through this route once you get off at the National Paints station. You can walk up to Jebel Ali Bus Station to hop on a bus that goes to your destination.
Destinations that lie along this route include:
- Jebel Ali Gardens
- Discovery Gardens
- Dubai Investment Park
- Jumeirah Golf Estates
Train schedules and frequency
The Dubai Metro operates from 5 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, except on Fridays and Sundays. On Fridays, the timing runs up to 1 a.m. the next day. The metro line opens at 8 a.m. on Sundays.
Schedule
The timing of the first train to arrive varies from station to station, depending on their distance from the starting station. Here’s an estimated timeline of when to expect the first and last train at Ibn Battuta.
| Day | To Centrepoint | To Life Pharmacy | ||
| First Train | Last Train | First Train | Last Train | |
| Monday–Thursday | 5:16 a.m. | 11:40 p.m. | 6:24 a.m. | 10:40 p.m. |
| Friday | 5:16 a.m. | 12:40 a.m. | 6:24 a.m. | 11:40 p.m. |
| Saturday | 5:16 a.m. | 11:40 p.m. | 6:24 a.m. | 10:40 p.m. |
| Sunday | 8:16 a.m. | 11:40 p.m. | 9:24 a.m. | 10:40 p.m. |
It is important to note that these timings are indicative, and it is always advisable to check the RTA Dubai app for a real-time view of when to expect the next train. You can also use RTA’s Journey Planner to plan your trips smoothly.
Frequency
Every station on the Dubai Metro network has a train arriving every 4 to 7 minutes. Even if you miss a train, you can easily take the next one without much delay.
What are the facilities available at Ibn Battuta Metro Station?
In line with high standards of the Dubai Metro Network, the Ibn Battuta Metro Station is both accessible and amenity-rich. From CCTV cameras that ensure safety to impeccable cleanliness that enhances your travel experience, the station strives to serve commuters with the best.
Entrance and exit
The station offers two openings that travellers can choose from, based on their preferences.
- Garden Cross Road – Provides direct access to and from the Ibn Battuta Bus Station, allowing you to hit the road easily.
- Ibn Battuta Mall – A walkway leads you directly into the travel-themed mall, offering a variety of food, beverage, shopping, and entertainment options to choose from.
Parking
Being adjacent to the mall, Ibn Battuta provides ample parking options for park-and-ride commuters. You can park in the mall’s parking and head to the metro station to take a train without hassle. Needless to say, you must consider the operating hours of the mall if you are planning to leave your vehicle in its parking.
Facilities
Inside the station, waiting areas are clean and air-conditioned. Lifts and escalators enhance convenience for those travelling with children or luggage. The RTA information counter helps address any last-minute questions you may have, while electronic ticket machines let you buy or top up your NOL card easily.
Comfort and accessibility
The station provides step-free access throughout, ensuring it is fully accessible for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility impairments.
Getting around from Ibn Battuta Metro Station
Feeder routes
The Ibn Battuta Bus Station is just a short walk from the metro station. From here, you can take a feeder bus towards your destination. The popular buses and the destinations they serve are:
- F43: Discovery Gardens
- F44: Jebel Ali Gardens
- F46: Investment Park
- F55 & F55A: Dubai International Airport
For trips beyond Dubai, the E101 intercity bus connects you to Abu Dhabi and other nearby emirates, as well as significant educational and commercial centres. If you are planning to explore or invest in Abu Dhabi, check out this detailed guide on the markets to visit.
Tram connections
The station also connects to the Dubai Tram network, making it easy to travel to areas such as Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Signage inside the station helps you switch smoothly between the metro, tram, and bus services.
Taxi and ride-hailing options
If you prefer private transport, there are taxi stands right in front of the station and the mall. Uber and Careem are also readily available.
Things to do around Ibn Battuta
There are many interesting places to visit near the Ibn Battuta Metro Station. Some of these are:
- Ibn Battuta Mall: A themed shopping and dining destination inspired by the travels of the Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta.
- Jebel Ali Recreation Club: Leisure and sport activities that are perfect for families and friends to enjoy in groups.
- Jebel Ali Village: Enjoy aesthetic evening walks or stop by a plush café in this peaceful neighbourhood.
Key takeaways
Ibn Battuta Metro Station marks a significant spot on Dubai’s Red Line. It connects Jebel Ali to major city hotspots and intercity destinations, such as Abu Dhabi. Seamless connections to buses, trams, taxis, and ride-hailing services make onward travel effortless.
The station derives its name from the Ibn Battuta Mall that it opens directly into, providing commuters with premium dining and shopping options, along with access to ample parking spaces. Clean and well-maintained, the Ibn Batutta Metro Station is designed to accommodate those with mobility needs.
FAQs
All Dubai Metro stations operate from 5 a.m. to midnight, but timings vary on Fridays and weekends. Be sure to check the Dubai RTA app for a real-time update on the next available train.
Pets are not allowed on the Dubai Metro. However, service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities are permitted.
Ibn Battuta Mall is conveniently connected to the station and features a diverse range of cafes, restaurants, and quick-service food outlets. The station by itself does not have any dining options.
You can visit official RTA sources to seek support.
You can carry one large suitcase and one small suitcase with you on the go. However, be sure to place your luggage in the designated areas once you are inside the train.
