TL;DR:
Dubai Metro passengers face fines ranging from AED 100 to AED 2,000, depending on the severity of the violation.- Minor offences like eating, entering restricted cabins, or putting feet on seats incur AED 100.
- Moderate offences like fare evasion or using invalid Nol cards carry AED 200–500 fines.
- Severe safety violationS, such as misuse of emergency devices or damaging equipment, can cost up to AED 2,000.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has issued a fresh warning to commuters: Metro rule-breakers now face fines of up to AED 2,000. Whether for minor infractions like eating aboard a train or serious offences such as tampering with emergency systems, riders are expected to adhere strictly to regulations designed to safeguard safety and order on the city’s metro system. Fines are categorised by seriousness:
Minor violations: AED 100
Typical infractions include:
- Eating, drinking, or chewing gum on a train
- Sitting in gender‑ or class‑restricted areas
- Placing feet on seats
- Entering restricted or non‑passenger zones
- Misusing lifts or escalators
- Boarding by climbing or jumping, or attempting to open doors while the train is moving
Moderate violations: AED 200–500
These involve fare issues and behavioural breaches:
- Fare evasion (travel without paying)
- Using someone else’s, expired, invalid, or counterfeit Nol card
- Selling Nol cards without RTA authorisation
- Spitting, littering, smoking
- Distracting or obstructing staff or drivers
- Ignoring instructions or sign-board rules
- Carrying alcohol on board
Fine amounts:
- AED 200 for card misuse and general non‑compliance
- AED 500 for counterfeit card possession or carrying alcohol
Serious Violations: Up to AED 2,000
Most serious breaches include:
- Damaging, vandalising, or destroying seats or RTA equipment
- Misusing emergency buttons, exits, or safety tools in non‑emergency situation
High‑Risk Infractions & Extra‑High Fines
- Carrying hazardous items such as weapons or flammable goods: AED 1,000
- Damage to tram infrastructure or electric tracks: fines may reach AED 3,000, including tram-specific penalties
Why the AED 2,000 cap matters
A fine of AED 2,000 represents the maximum penalty for non‑criminal misconduct on Dubai Metro. Such high penalties are typically reserved for actions that endanger passenger safety or system operations, particularly misuse of emergency controls or deliberate damage. Less serious violations carry lower fines aligned with their risk to safety and order.
How to pay your fine
Passengers can:
- Pay on the spot to inspectors and receive a receipt.
- Use RTA’s official website or smart app with your Emirates ID or fine number.
- Visit a Customer Happiness Centre across Dubai to settle fines in person.
Note: A knowledge and innovation fee may also apply alongside the fine.Dubai Metro combines a polished, efficient transit experience with strict enforcement measures. While small infractions rarely incur huge penalties, deliberate actions that tamper with safety systems or disrupt operations are met with the highest fines. Familiarise yourself with:
- AED 100 for conduct-related minor breaches
- AED 200–500 for fare and card misuse
- AED 2,000 for emergency or safety violations
FAQ
- Q: What is the minimum fine for Dubai Metro rule violations?
A: The minimum fine is AED 100 for minor offences like eating or sitting in restricted cabins. - Q: What kind of violations can lead to AED 2,000 fines?
A: Misusing emergency equipment, damaging metro property, or major safety breaches. - Q: Can I get fined for using someone else’s Nol card?
A: Yes, using another person’s card can lead to a fine of AED 200. - Q: Is there a fine for fare evasion on the Metro?
A: Yes, not paying the fare attracts a fine of AED 200. - Q: How can I pay a Dubai Metro fine?
A: You can pay online via the RTA website/app, at kiosks, or Customer Happiness Centres.
