ADCB (Formely Al Karama) Metro Station Guide: Routes, Schedule, & More

Located at the intersection of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road and 33rd Street, ADCB Metro Station stands at the heart of Al Karama. A district renowned for its dense residential clusters, eclectic shopping zones, and casual eateries, Al Karama is a popular destination for both residents and tourists. As part of the Red Line, the station connects commuters to Dubai’s financial centres, entertainment spots, and airport corridors.

Here’s what you can find in this guide:

• History and naming
• Quick facts
• Metro routes and connectivity
• Bus connections and interchange options
• Taxi and ride-hailing availability
• What facilities can one find at ADCB Metro Station?
• Train schedule and best times to travel
• Nearby attractions and places to visit
• Navigation and travel tips
• Key takeaways
• FAQs

History and naming

ADCB Metro Station originally opened on 30 April 2010 as Al Karama Metro Station. In September 2014, the station was renamed following a corporate sponsorship by Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. Despite the official name change, it is still often referred to by its former name in daily conversation.

Quick Facts About ADCB Metro Station

Metro routes and connectivity

ADCB Metro Station provides seamless access to many of Dubai’s central destinations along the Red Line. Whether you’re heading to the beach for the day, attending a meeting in DIFC, or catching a flight at DXB, the station provides efficient and direct connections.

• Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall
• DIFC and Emirates Towers
• Mall of the Emirates
• Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lake Towers
• Access to Route 2020 via transfer at National Paints station
• Transfer to the Green Line via BurJuman or Union stations

Bus connections and interchange options

Al Karama Bus Station is situated just steps away from the metro exit, functioning as a significant node for Dubai’s bus network. The bus routes available here cover a vast stretch of the city and beyond:

1. Routes towards Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, and Al Safa
2. Services to Sharjah and Northern Emirates
3. Buses towards Silicon Oasis and International City
4. Circular routes through Oud Metha, Bur Dubai, and Deira

Your NOL card is valid for use on both buses and the metro, making switching between modes hassle-free.

Taxi and ride-hailing availability

Taxi access is quick and organised. You can hail:

• Standard Hala Dubai taxis
• Pink taxis are reserved for women and families
• App-based services like Uber, Careem, and Hala

Drop-off and pick-up zones are located directly outside the metro entrance, offering easy access at most hours.

What facilities can one find at ADCB Metro Station?

The ADCB Metro Station is designed with ease and comfort in mind for commuters. Whether you are catching an early train or arriving after midnight, the station maintains high standards of cleanliness, access, and safety.

Entrance and exit 

There are two main entrances to the station. One faces Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road, providing quick access from Karama Centre and nearby buildings. The other opens towards the Al Karama Bus Station, making bus-to-metro or metro-to-bus transfers seamless.

Parking

The station does not offer dedicated parking and ride facilities. However, nearby options include:

• Paid street parking within 200 metres
• Al Attar Mall parking (free with shopping validation)
• Private parking lots on 33rd Street and nearby lanes

It’s best to plan, especially during peak evening hours when parking fills up quickly.

Amenities inside the station

• Clean, air-conditioned waiting areas
• Electronic NOL card top-up machines
• Customer service desk for travel queries
• Free public restrooms, cleaned multiple times daily
• Clear directional signage and train info screens
• Lifts and escalators for convenience

Inside the station, you’ll find:

Comfort and accessibility

The entire station is wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry, ramps, and elevators available at all platforms. Tactile paths are included for visually impaired travellers. Benches and resting zones are strategically placed along walkways, making them especially helpful for older passengers or those carrying luggage.

Safety and surveillance

The station remains staffed during operating hours and features:

• 24/7 CCTV coverage
• Emergency intercoms on platforms
• Security officers are present throughout the day
• Well-lit corridors and platforms

Even late at night, foot traffic and surveillance ensure a generally safe environment, contributing to Dubai’s overall safety.

Train schedule and best times to travel

The Dubai Metro operates frequently throughout the day, with trains arriving every 4 to 7 minutes during regular hours. During rush hours—typically between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and again from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., trains may fill quickly.
Quieter periods include:

• Weekdays before 7:00 a.m. or after 8:30 p.m.
• Midday slots between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
• Late evenings on weekends (after 9:00 p.m.)

Train schedules may vary slightly by station. For real-time updates, use the RTA Dubai app or visit RTA’s journey planner.

Nearby attractions and places to visit

From ADCB Station, you’re just a short walk or ride from several of Dubai’s iconic spots. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences or modern conveniences, there is something here for everyone.

• Karama Market: A buzzing strip of stalls selling fabrics, spices, perfumes, and electronics. The area is renowned for its bargain deals, so be sure to negotiate effectively.
• Bur Dubai: Explore historical landmarks such as the Dubai Museum, the Al Fahidi Heritage District, and Dubai Creek, all just a short distance away.
• Al Attar Shopping Mall: A mid-sized complex with budget electronics, clothing stores, and food outlets.
• Karama Centre: Home to clinics, courier services, and tailoring shops. Ideal for running everyday errands.

Restaurants near ADCB Metro Station

A vibrant and diverse food scene surrounds the station. Whatever your palate, you’ll find something within a few minutes’ walk.
Some nearby favourites include:

• Saravanaa Bhavan – Famous for South Indian vegetarian dishes
• Chatori Gali – Street food-style Indian eatery
• Lal Qila – Pakistani buffet dining with Mughlai touches
• Al Attar Cafeteria – Popular for fresh juices and shawarma

Navigation and travel tips

• By metro: Take the Red Line and exit at station R20 (ADCB).
• By bus: Routes from Al Karama Bus Station serve central and outer Dubai.
• By foot: Walkable from surrounding areas like Mankhool, Oud Metha, and Al Raffa.
• By taxi: Use the official taxi rank located near the station or call a service via an app.

If you’re travelling with luggage, early mornings or mid-afternoons are your best bet for a less crowded experience. Always carry a charged NOL card to switch easily between the metro and the bus.

Key takeaways

ADCB Metro Station, once called Al Karama, is one of the Red Line’s most central stops. It links a busy residential area to Dubai’s business zones, malls, and airport. With Al Karama Bus Station just steps away, it serves as a key interchange between metro, bus, and taxi routes.

Whether you’re commuting, exploring Old Dubai, or checking out apartments in Old Dubai to call your new home, or stopping briefly, the station ensures a smooth journey. It combines modern amenities, clear signs, and full accessibility—making it a practical gateway into both the city’s heritage and its fast-paced energy.

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