How to Go to Dubai Design District by Metro

Dubai Design District, widely known as d3, is Dubai’s dedicated creative and design hub. While the district is not directly served by the Dubai Metro, it is easy to reach using a short combination of metro plus bus or taxi.

The most reliable access point is via the Red Line, followed by a brief onward journey from the Downtown Dubai area.

• Nearest metro station to Dubai Design District
• Step-by-step directions by metro
• Connecting from the metro to Dubai Design District
• Metro operating hours
• Routes from popular starting points
• Tickets, fares and useful tips
• Key takeaways
• Frequently asked questions

Nearest metro station to Dubai Design District

The Dubai Design District does not have a metro station within walking distance; however, one station serves as the primary public transport hub.

Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station (Red Line)

Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station is the nearest and officially recommended metro station for reaching d3.

Set your destination to ‘Dubai Design District (d3), Za’abeel 2, Dubai’ when using navigation apps.

• Distance to d3: approximately 4–6 km by road
• Walking: not practical (over 1 hour on foot)
• Best onward option: Bus D03/D03A or taxi

Although some mapping apps suggest shorter walking routes, these are not suitable due to distance, road layout, and heat exposure.

Step-by-step directions by metro

Reaching Dubai Design District by metro involves one simple transfer after exiting the Red Line.

Board the Red Line (M1) and travel to Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station. This station is well connected to both Old Dubai and newer areas such as Dubai Marina and JLT.

Connecting from the metro to Dubai Design District

Once you exit the metro, you will need to continue by bus or taxi to reach d3.

Metro + bus (recommended public transport option)

This is the most cost-effective and reliable public transport route.

How it works:

• Exit Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station
• Walk to the Dubai Mall Metro Bus Stop (landside)
• Board Bus D03 or D03A
• Alight at Dubai Design District – 01

Journey details:

• Bus travel time: approximately 15–20 minutes
• Frequency: roughly hourly
• Fare: AED 3–6 (Nol card)

Bus D03 / D03A is currently the only RTA routes that run directly into d3 from the metro area.

Metro + taxi (fastest option)

For visitors prioritising speed or comfort, taxis are widely available outside the metro station.

Journey details:

• Travel time: 10–15 minutes
• Typical fare: AED 16–20
• Drop-off: multiple access points across d3

This option is popular during hot weather, evenings, or event days.

Metro operating hours

Understanding metro timings helps with planning both arrival and return.

Dubai Metro Red Line hours 

• Monday–Thursday & Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
• Friday: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
• Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)

For live updates and last-train checks, use the RTA S’hail app.

Routes from popular starting points

Travel time varies depending on where you begin your journey.

• From Business Bay
  • Metro to Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall
  • Bus D03/D03A or taxi to d3
  • Total time: 45–60 minutes
  • Cost: AED 4–11 (public transport)
• From Dubai Marina or JLT
  • Red Line towards Centrepoint
  • Exit at Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall
  • Continue by bus or taxi
  • Taxi from Downtown: 10–15 minutes

Tickets, fares and useful tips

A few practical details help ensure a smooth journey.

Nol card and fares

• Metro: AED 4–6
• Bus: AED 3–6
• Typical total cost: under AED 11

A Silver Nol card is recommended for most visitors.

Navigation tips

• Use RTA S’hail for official timings and alerts
• Use Moovit or Google Maps for route visuals, but confirm the final leg uses D03/D03A

Explore the Available Properties for Sale in Dubai Design District

Key takeaways

• Dubai Design District is best accessed via Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station.
• The district is not walkable from the metro due to the distance.
• Only Bus D03/D03A provides direct public transport access into d3.
• Taxi is the fastest option, costing around AED 16–20.
• Public transport remains affordable, usually under AED 11 per trip.

Frequently asked questions

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