Rushing onto the Dubai Metro and realising you’ve entered the wrong cabin is a common mistake. But in Dubai, this error costs Dh100. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) enforces strict regulations to maintain a safe and smooth commute for all passengers.
Here is the complete breakdown of Dubai Metro fines by severity, helping you avoid costly penalties on your daily commute.
How Much Are Dubai Metro Fines?
Dubai Metro fines range from Dh100 for minor offences to Dh2,000 for serious safety violations. The RTA categorises penalties into three levels based on severity.
| Category | Fine Amount | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Offences | Dh100 | Wrong cabin, eating, disruptive behaviour |
| Moderate Offences | Dh200-Dh300 | Fare evasion, smoking, littering |
| Major Offences | Dh500-Dh2,000 | Hazardous items, emergency button misuse |
Understanding these categories helps you avoid unnecessary fines while using Dubai’s public transport system.
Minor Offences: Dh100 Fines
These common violations disrupt other passengers or interfere with smooth metro operations:
Disruptive behaviour – Causing a disturbance or inconveniencing other passengers
Improper seating – Sitting in or accessing areas reserved for specific groups, including the Gold Class cabin without a valid ticket or the Women and Children cabin
Food and drink restrictions – Eating or drinking in prohibited zones
Animals on board – Bringing pets, except guide dogs for visually impaired passengers
Restricted areas – Entering off-limit zones marked with warning signs
Non-passenger areas – Standing or sitting in spaces not meant for passengers
Feet on seats – Resting feet on seats, damaging or dirtying them
Lift and escalator misuse – Improper use of these facilities
Unsafe boarding – Climbing or jumping onto public transport
Door tampering – Opening doors or attempting to board/alight while the vehicle is moving
Hazardous items – Carrying items that may inconvenience others or pose a safety risk
The Dh100 fine applies to each individual offence. Multiple violations during a single journey can result in accumulated penalties.
Moderate Offences: Dh200-Dh300 Fines
These offences involve fare violations, misuse or non-compliance with RTA rules:
Dh200 Fines
Fare evasion – Using public transport without paying or entering fare zones without a valid ticket. Maintain sufficient balance on your nol card before travelling.
Nol card misuse – Failing to show a valid nol card, using expired or invalid cards, or using someone else’s card
Unauthorised sales – Selling nol cards without prior RTA approval
Cleanliness violations – Spitting, littering, or compromising the cleanliness of transport facilities
Smoking – Lighting up in any metro or public transport area
Unapproved sales or promotions – Selling or promoting goods without permission
Non-compliance – Ignoring instructions from inspectors or obstructing their duties
Signage violations – Disregarding rules displayed on signboards
Distracting the driver – Obstructing or distracting drivers while operating the metro
Dh300 Fine
Sleeping in prohibited areas – Including passenger shelters or restricted zones
Major Offences: Dh500-Dh2,000 Fines
Serious violations carry higher fines due to the safety risks involved:
Dh500 Fines
- Carrying alcoholic beverages inside public transport facilities
- Using counterfeit cards
Dh1,000 Fines
- Carrying hazardous items such as weapons, sharp tools, or flammable materials
- Entering prohibited zones marked off-limits
- Crossing metro tracks outside designated areas
Dh2,000 Fines
- Misusing emergency buttons without cause
- Abusing safety equipment, such as emergency exits, unnecessarily
- Tampering with or interfering in tram operations, putting passenger safety at risk
These maximum penalties reflect the serious nature of offences that endanger other passengers or disrupt metro operations.
How to Avoid Dubai Metro Fines
Following these guidelines helps you travel smoothly without incurring penalties:
Check your nol card balance – The minimum balance requirement is Dh7.50 for travel. Top up before your journey.
Enter the correct cabin – Standard cabins are for all passengers. Gold Class requires a Gold nol card. Women and Children cabins have restricted access.
Follow signage – Pay attention to signs indicating restricted areas, prohibited items and behavioural expectations.
Respect other passengers – Keep noise levels down, avoid blocking doorways and give up seats in priority areas when needed.
Keep food and drinks away – No eating or drinking is permitted on Dubai Metro, Tram or feeder buses.
Fold e-scooters properly – If you bring an e-scooter on the Metro, fold it and place it in designated areas.
What Happens If You Get Fined?
RTA inspectors issue fines on the spot for violations. The process works as follows:
- Inspector identifies the violation
- Fine is issued to the passenger
- Payment can be made through RTA online channels or service centres
- Unpaid fines may affect future nol card usage
For questions about fines or disputes, contact the RTA Customer Service Centre at 8009090, which operates 24/7.
Dubai Metro Cabin Types
Understanding cabin types prevents the common Dh100 fine for entering the wrong section:
Standard Class – Open to all passengers with valid nol cards
Gold Class – Located at the front of the train, requires Gold nol card or Gold ticket. Features more spacious seating and dedicated sections.
Women and Children – Designated cabin for women and children under 12. Men entering this cabin face a Dh100 fine.
The child travel guidelines specify that children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult on public transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the fine for eating on Dubai Metro?
Eating or drinking on Dubai Metro carries a Dh100 fine. This rule applies to all public transport including the tram and feeder buses.
What happens if I enter the wrong cabin on Dubai Metro?
Entering the Women and Children cabin (if you’re not permitted) or Gold Class without a valid Gold nol card results in a Dh100 fine.
Can I bring my pet on Dubai Metro?
No. Bringing animals on Dubai Metro carries a Dh100 fine. The only exception is guide dogs for visually impaired passengers.
What is the maximum fine on Dubai Metro?
The maximum fine is Dh2,000 for serious offences including misusing emergency buttons, abusing safety equipment, or tampering with tram operations.
How do I pay a Dubai Metro fine?
Pay through the RTA website, Dubai RTA app, or at RTA service centres. The RTA Customer Service Centre at 8009090 can assist with payment queries.
Is smoking allowed anywhere on Dubai Metro?
No. Smoking is prohibited in all metro stations, trains and public transport facilities. The fine is Dh200.
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