Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1 (DAFZA) is an elevated station on the Green Line, opened on 9 September 2011. Located on Al Nahda Street between Al Qusais and Al Twar, it serves as a key stop for those travelling to Dubai Airport Free Zone and Terminal 2 of Dubai International Airport.
Designed for easy access, the station includes lifts, escalators, and bicycle parking, ensuring smooth travel for commuters and people of determination. It remains one of the main metro points linking the business and residential areas of eastern Dubai.
Explore this guide:
- Location & accessibility
- Metro line, connections & schedule
- Bus routes serving DAFZA Metro Station 1
- Facilities & amenities at DAFZA Metro Station 1
- Who uses Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1
- Nearby landmarks & destinations
- Tips for using DAFZA Metro Station 1
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Location & accessibility
Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1 (DAFZA) sits in one of eastern Dubai’s most connected business areas – along Al Nahda Road, between Al Qusais and Al Twar. One of its exits opens directly onto Al Quds Street (D91), linking passengers to nearby offices, residential buildings, and major arterial roads.
The station is less than a kilometre from the main entrance of the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ), offering convenient access for professionals working in the area. However, it is not directly connected to Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 2 — passengers must take a short taxi or bus ride to reach the terminal.
The nearest metro stations for airport access are:
- Abu Hail Metro Station (Green Line): for bus or taxi transfer to Terminal 2 (approx. 2 km)
- Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 Stations (Red Line): directly serving the main terminals
Key details
- Address: Al Nahda Road – between Al Qusais and Al Twar
- Alternate access: Al Quds Street (D91)
- Coordinates: 25.2533° N, 55.3648° E
- Proximity: 0.5 miles from Dubai Airport Free Zone main entrance
- Nearest airport connection: DXB Terminal 2 (via bus or taxi from Abu Hail Metro Station)
- Nearby areas: Al Qusais – Al Twar 1 – Dubai Airport Free Zone – Muhaisnah
Getting there
- By foot: Pedestrian paths connect the station to DAFZ and surrounding residential zones.
- By bus: Routes such as 31 and C26 serve the vicinity and link to Terminal 2 and Deira.
- By taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the station and offer a 5–10 minute ride to Terminal 2.
With its prime location near DAFZ and Al Twar, DAFZA Metro Station 1 provides a fast and efficient connection for commuters working in business zones or travelling within Dubai’s eastern districts.
Metro line, connections & schedule
Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1 (DAFZA) sits on the Green Line of the Dubai Metro – one of the city’s two main routes. It provides quick access to both business and residential areas in eastern Dubai, making daily commutes easy for professionals and travellers alike.
Metro line information
| Line | Details |
| Green Line | Directly serves DAFZA Metro Station 1, connects through Deira, Bur Dubai, and Creek. |
| Red Line | Accessible via transfers at Union or BurJuman stations, links to Downtown, Business Bay, Dubai Marina. |
Metro schedule (2025)
Based on the latest RTA-aligned guides, Dubai Metro hours are:
- Monday to Thursday & Saturday: 5:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. (midnight)
- Friday: 5:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m. (next day)
- Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. (midnight)
Trains typically arrive every 2–3 minutes during peak hours, and every 5–7 minutes off-peak.
Note: First/last train times vary by station and direction — always confirm via the RTA’s S’hail app or official timetable.
Key connections
- Airports: Closest to DXB Terminal 2 (via bus or taxi transfer from Abu Hail Metro Station). Direct metro links are available to Terminals 1 and 3 on the Red Line.
- Business hubs: Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ), government offices, and corporate headquarters in Al Twar and Al Qusais.
- Residential districts: Al Qusais, Al Twar, and Muhaisnah – easily reachable by bus or a short taxi ride.
With its strategic location on the Green Line, DAFZA Metro Station 1 connects key commercial zones, neighbourhoods, and the airport – keeping eastern Dubai well linked for both daily commuters and international travellers.
Bus routes serving DAFZA Metro Station 1
Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1 (DAFZA) remains well-connected by several RTA bus routes linking the Green Line with nearby business, residential, and airport districts.
The nearest stops, Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Bus Stop – 01 and Twar, Union Cooperative Society – 01, are both within a short four-minute walk from the station.
These routes ensure smooth connections across Al Qusais, Muhaisnah, and Dubai Airport Free Zone, with regular daily services.
Current bus routes
| Route No. | Route Path | Notes / Updates (2025) |
| 13 | Gold Souq Bus Station ↔ Qusais Dubai Municipality Staff Housing | Active; continues to serve the DAFZA area |
| 17 | Muhaisnah 4 Wasl Oasis 2 ↔ Baniyas Square Metro Bus Station | Endpoint changed from Sabkha to Baniyas Square (May 2025) |
| C26 | Wasl Park ↔ Qusais Industrial Area Terminus (via DXB Terminal 2 and DAFZA Metro Bus Stop) | Provides connection to DXB Terminal 2, stop moved to Max Metro Land Side (May 2025) |
| 62A / 62B | Replaced former Route 64, serves corridors toward Ras Al Khor and Dubai Festival City | Introduced 29 Aug 2025 to replace Routes 62 and 64 coverage |
| F62 & 77 | Feeder routes serving the nearby areas of Al Twar and Muhaisnah | Converted and re-routed as part of RTA network changes (Aug 2025) |
Disclaimer: All information is based on official RTA updates released 29 August 2025 under the “Bus Network Changes” announcement.
Sample bus timetable (Fridays)
Timings reflect RTA’s public data and Moovit estimates for October 2025.
Departures from Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Bus Stop – 01 typically start between 05:30 a.m. and 06:30 a.m., depending on route.
| Line | Direction | First Bus (approx.) | Frequency |
| 62B | Ras Al Khor Terminus | ≈ 05:35 a.m. | Every 20 min |
| 13 | Qusais Staff Housing | ≈ 06:00 a.m. | Every 30 min |
| 17 | Baniyas Square Metro Bus Station | ≈ 06:10 a.m. | Every 25 min |
| C26 | Qusais Industrial Area Terminus (via DXB T2) | ≈ 06:20 a.m. | Every 30 min (peak) |
Note: Exact times vary by direction and day; always check the RTA S’hail or Wojhati apps for live departures.
Nearest stops & connections
- Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Bus Stop 01: Directly outside DAFZA Metro Station 1.
- Twar, Union Cooperative Society 01: 4 min walk from the station.
- Airport access: Route C26 provides the most direct link to DXB Terminal 2 (via bus transfer or short taxi ride).
- Recent RTA updates (Aug 2025): Routes 62 split into 62A / 62B; Route 31 now operates between Dubai Outsource City and Dubai Silicon Oasis (no longer serving DAFZA).
Facilities & amenities at DAFZA Metro Station 1
Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1 (DAFZA) provides a complete set of facilities for passengers, ensuring comfort, accessibility, and security. Whether you’re commuting to the Free Zone, catching a flight, or simply travelling across the Green Line, the station is equipped for a smooth and efficient journey.
Ticketing
- Nol card services: Automated machines allow you to purchase or recharge Nol cards used across all RTA transport.
- Vending kiosks: Self-service ticket machines are available for quick top-ups and single-journey tickets.
- Staffed counters: Ticket offices offer support for fare inquiries, refunds, and travel assistance.
Shops & refreshments
- Retail kiosks: Convenience stores and vending machines sell snacks, drinks, and essentials.
- Dining options: A small café operates within the station, while the connected DAFZA Square Retail Centre (accessible via pedestrian bridge) includes a full food court with multiple restaurants.
- ATMs & mobile recharge: ATMs and mobile top-up stations are available inside the concourse.
- Nearby facilities: Just outside, passengers will find supermarkets, coffee shops, and restaurants along Al Nahda Road and within the Free Zone complex.
Accessibility
- Elevators & escalators: Connect all station levels, making it accessible to wheelchair users and those with luggage.
- People of determination access: Wide gates, ramps, and dedicated train spaces for wheelchair users.
- Visual & auditory aids: Bilingual announcements, tactile floor paths, and clear signage in both English and Arabic.
- Climate control: Fully air-conditioned concourse and platforms.
- Pedestrian walkways: Covered bridges and crossings provide safe links to DAFZA offices and nearby areas.
Restrooms & seating
- Restrooms: Clean and accessible facilities for men and women within the paid area.
- Seating zones: Comfortable waiting areas and benches across the concourse and platforms.
- Prayer rooms: Dedicated prayer spaces are available for passengers.
Security
- CCTV & monitoring: Over 3,000 cameras operate across the network, including DAFZA Station.
- On-site staff: Station staff and Metro Police ensure safety and passenger assistance.
- Emergency call boxes: Installed across platforms and corridors for immediate help.
- Integrated radio system: Direct link to emergency services across all metro stations.
Connectivity & other features
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout the metro system.
- Mobile coverage: Continuous 4G/5G connectivity inside trains and platforms.
- Designated cabins: Separate carriages for women and children, plus Gold Class for Nol Gold Card users.
Who uses Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1?
DAFZA Metro Station 1 serves a wide range of daily commuters and visitors:
- Business professionals: Employees and clients travelling to offices within the Dubai Airport Free Zone and nearby business hubs.
- Travellers: Passengers using the metro to reach DXB Terminal 2 via bus or taxi connections.
- Residents: Commuters from surrounding areas like Al Qusais, Al Twar, and Al Nahda.
- Tourists: Visitors staying near the airport or exploring Deira and Old Dubai using the Green Line.
Nearby landmarks & destinations
1. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
One of Dubai’s leading business and logistics centres.
Location
It’s located in Dubai International Airport – Dubai
Contact Information
Phone: +971 4 299 5555
2. DXB Terminal 2
Roughly 10 minutes away by bus or taxi.
Location
It’s located in Dubai International Airport, Dubai
Contact Information
Phone: +971 4 224 5555
3. Al Twar Centre
The government services complex is close to the metro.
Location
It’s located in Al Nahda Road, next to Al Qusais Metro Station, Al Twar Area – Dubai
Contact Information
Phone: 800 900 (Dubai Municipality Hotline)
Neighbourhood amenities – hotels, cafés, and offices across Al Qusais and Al Twar.
Tips for using DAFZA Metro Station 1
Plan ahead for a smooth journey via Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1 (DAFZA) in 2025.
- Check timings: Use the RTA website, S’hail app, or Wojhati planner for live metro and bus schedules.
- Travel off-peak: Trains run every 2–3 min (peak) and 5–7 min (off-peak). Expect crowds 7–9 a.m. and 5–8 p.m.
- Use lifts and escalators: Fully accessible with elevators, escalators, and clear bilingual signs.
- Enjoy amenities: Air-conditioned halls, ATMs, kiosks, prayer rooms, and easy bus links to DXB Terminal 2.
- Top up your Nol card: Cash not accepted. Keep AED 7.50+ balance.
- Machines or counters on site
- Online via RTA Dubai or S’hail
- Card types: Silver, Red, Gold.
Key takeaways
Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1 (DAFZA) remains one of the most practical metro stops on the Green Line in 2025 – connecting key business, residential, and airport destinations across eastern Dubai. It offers modern facilities, reliable bus and metro connections, and full accessibility features for passengers of all needs.
Whether you’re travelling to Dubai International Airport Terminal 2, commuting to Dubai Airport Free Zone offices, or heading into the city from Al Qusais or Al Twar, the station ensures a fast, convenient, and comfortable journey.
For the latest RTA schedules, fare details, and bus timings, always check official sources such as the RTA website, S’hail app, or Wojhati journey planner before your trip.
FAQs
The Green Line directly serves DAFZA Metro Station 1, connecting to areas like Deira, Bur Dubai, and Creek. Transfers to the Red Line are available at Union and BurJuman stations.
Yes. Terminal 2 is within easy reach – just a few minutes by bus or taxi – and the metro network provides convenient access to Terminals 1 and 3 via interchange stations.
The main RTA bus routes serving DAFZA include 13, 17, 31, and 64, all running frequent services throughout the day. Nearby stops include Twar, Union Cooperative Society – 01 and Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Bus Stop – 01.
Operating hours as of 2025 are:
– Monday to Thursday & Saturday: 5:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. (midnight)
– Friday: 5:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m. (next day)
– Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. (midnight)
Trains arrive every 2–3 minutes during peak times and every 5–7 minutes off-peak.
Yes. The station is fully accessible, offering lifts, escalators, tactile guidance paths, and clear signage for travellers with mobility or visual impairments.
