Metro Blog: Thoughts on the Dubai Metro

Dubai made history with the opening of the Metro system at 9pm on Wednesday. The world's largest automated driverless Metro system has been built by 30,000 workers at an unprecedented pace and will serve around 1.2 million passengers every day.

Gulf News reporters are going around Dubai Metro stations to blog about their experiences.

If you want to comment, or send a question to our reporters then fill in the form at the bottom of the page. You could also share your unique photos of the Dubai Metro by clicking here.



Published 1:45pm September 12, 2009

The Mall of Emirates station is much less chaotic than yesterday. People are moving smoothly on the walkway although no train was in sight for 20 minutes. The train going to Jebel Ali looked busy but not overly packed.

My train arrived on time after all. I'm heading to the Financial Centre Station, and from there I will get cab to work.

I have spent about Dh20 all weekend going up and down the city. My legs are killing me, but getting that cab 1km is going to cost me the same as two days on the Metro..

Published 8.22pm September 11, 2009

Commuters were stopped from getting into Nakheel Harbour station. Train stalled at platform. Cars not allowed into parking.

Published 5:45 pm September 11, 2009

Catch a free 3D show on Dubai Metro at Mall of the Emirates until September 15.

Published 4:50 pm September 11, 2009

People cheered when the tannoy man said next destination is Mall of the Emirates.



Published 4:34pm September 11, 2009

It's so packed a man and his family couldn't get off at Khalid Bin Al Waleed. I got a better place near the far door so it's not too crushed. People are happy and no-one's losing their temper which is pretty cool I think. Kids are being pushed to windows for better views.



Published 4:22pm September 11, 2009

Good news for commuters from Ibn Battuta station. Free bus service to Nakheel Harbour every five minutes as station not ready.



Published 4:30pm September 11, 2009

Train arrived looking full. Squeezed in somehow. Praying it doesn't break down. Man-woman ratio is 50:1. Going ok though.



Published 4:15pm September 11, 2009

Been waiting at Deira City Centre for about 20 minutes. The only ticket machine is broken. And more people keep arriving on the platform.



Published at 4:06pm September 11, 2009

Too bad. Can't ignore boss's deadline as Metro trains have wifi.



Published 4:04pm September 11, 2009

The train arrived at the Mall of the Emirates station about an hour later than expected. Hundreds of new passengers got on the already packed train and few got off. At the station itself, there were hundreds of people waiting to get out and enter from the same area. There were no queues and people kept pushing to the front. Outside the gate, a few more hundred people had queued to get into the station.



Published 3:26pm September 11, 2009

After almost an hour's delay the train has left Nakheel Harbour and Tower station to the applause of frustrated passengers.



Published 3:21pm September 11, 2009

Lot's of people getting annoyed here. The train was 15 minutes late and once it arrived the doors stayed open for another 15 minutes.



Published 3:10pm September 11, 2009

I have got a T-shirt that says "I rode the Dubai Metro on 09-09- 09", as a gift from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). But I can't find any Dubai Metro T-shirts in malls. Are there no fast-thinking businessmen in Dubai?



Published 3:05pm September 11, 2009

Trains are not as frequent as expected. People are starting to gather at the platform. There approximately 200 people waiting here.



Published 3:00pm September 11, 2009

The Nakheel Harbour and Tower station is packed with people, mostly families, queueing to buy tickets and get on the trains.

Published 9:15pm September 10, 2009

Confusion at Mall of the Emirates...

Confusion at Mall of the Emirates station where huge crowds have formed. A security guard put up a sign saying entrance to the station was temporarily closed. Some of the crowd dispersed but within minutes hundreds of people were flooding towards the platform, where there is now a massive queue to get on the train.

People are being allowed access to the platform in about groups of 30-40 at a time

The station itself is relatively quiet but chaotic scenes trying to get in with lots of pushing and shoving

It's much busier now than this morning/afternoon. The train that just arrived at Mall of the Emirates was rammed full with people and it's standing room only on my train as well; now I really feel like I'm back in London.

Published 2:20pm September 10, 2009

The train stopped abruptly on it's way to Nakheel Harbour for 5 minutes at 2.05pm, causing traffic to slow down on Shaikh Zayed Road below, as curious motorists looked on.

At Dubai Airport Terminal 3, the train's sliding doors wouldn't open. This caused a 10-minute delay.

Published 1:12pm September 10, 2009

It took me just under half an hour to travel from Mall of the Emirates to Airport Terminal Three, where travellers can take an escalator straight into arrivals/departures. A few people with luggage are swithering over whether to take a taxi or experience the Dubai Metro for the first time.

I'm on the walkway at Financial Centre Station, traffic on Shaikh Zayed Road heading northbound is gridlocked. Plenty of people still using their cars today, how many of them will convert to the metro over the next few weeks/months?

Published 1:05pm September 10, 2009

My first experience with Metros was in Mexico City, where we have a very efficient train system that apart from taking me anywhere I want also allows me to read lots of books for pleasure or to study. Since then I felt in love with metros and during my trips abroad, I always find the time to try them.

After watching the inauguration ceremony of Dubai Metro on TV, I decided that I must be on the first train open to public, so no matter that I went to bed after 2:00 am, 10 minutes before 6:00am I was at the front door of the Financial Centre station, ready to be part of history.

The station opened at 6:00am sharp and I together with other eight people step into the place ready to be amazed.

Apart from certain issues that are understandable considering that this was the very first time that the system was enabled, I have to confess that my experience on the first train of Dubai Metro today was remarkable; it was like been in a party with all the people smiling, taking pictures and talking about how smooth the journey is, how helpful the hostesses are and how beautiful the stations and the trains are.

I noticed that apart from all the people who like me wanted to be there for the record, and the photographers and reporters from media, there were also various kinds of workers and employees, some wearing suit, others wearing uniforms or casual outfits, taking advantage of this new mode of transport that is going to change our way of life. Good for Dubai!

Published 12:30pm, September 10, 2009

And I'm underground at Khaled Bin Al Waleed station! Some funky music was playing. It's much more decorated with jellyfish-looking chandeliers. Went up and was on doorstep of BurJuman. My credit card is going to suffer. I haven't been to this part of town for about two years.

Published 12:28pm September 10, 2009

Commuters were finally able to board a train at 11.55am at the Nakheel Harbour and Tower station after a two hour delay attributed to technical difficulties. There were at least 70 people waiting with some sitting on the floor...

Published 12:25pm, September 10, 2009

There's only a juice bar at DIFC and some ATMs. Topped up with Dh50 which was easy. Policemen are on all platforms. I'm trying the women's carriage now. It's at top of the stairs so it's the first car you see. Gold is in front. I'm surprised it's open on both ends so men in silver and gold could walk in. I expected it to be closed off like in Cairo...

Published 12:22pm September 10, 2009

Please... NO MORE MUSIC! I want to jump in front of a train by the time I reach Al Rigga.It's loud, repetitive and tuneless...

Published 12:20pm, September 10, 2009

At Jafliyah. The bathrooms are small with 3 cubicles and modern-looking white sinks. Very clean so far. No shops to speak of. Getting back on but disappointed with women's car so going back to silver. Nowhere to sit on platforms either, but I guess we're not supposed to wait long.

Published 12:19pm September 10, 2009

It's the first day, you've got to understand, said a train attendant explaining the delay at MOE station.

Published 12:18pm September 10, 2009

At Union Square station, the murals depict old Dubai. I wonder what those people from the 1960s era photographs would say today.

Published 12:12pm September 09, 2009

Sitting next to a couple of self-confessed Jumeirah Janes who are joyriding to the airport and back again. Travelling underground now, this part of the journey is very reminiscent of London except for the sardine situation of course, I have a seat.

Published 12:08 pm September 10, 2009

It has a new car smell. Only stronger, and more expensive. But please, that muzzak is driving me crazy.

Published 12:03pm, September 10, 2009

Wow I love it! It's so cool. You're flying above the city. Train is not packed but I imagine it could get seriously busy. Crowd's gathered near front for the view. It's very metropolitan!

People look shell-shocked and happy getting off the metro! Saw a visually challenged man with a boy, and a girl from the airport with an Emirates tag on her bag. Some people want to do a round trip for fun. It's all going real smooth with helpers everywhere.

Published 11:58 am September 10, 2009

Help! There's no driver! But there's a rush of people to the front of the train. No one is sitting on the roof yet! Wow, it's smooth and fast.

Published 11:55 am September 10, 2009

Have to get down at Mall of the Emirates as the train could not travel to Nakheel Harbour due to some technical disruption there. Have to get down to the road and hire a taxi to reach Nakheel Harbour.

Published 11:52pm September 09, 2009

The voice over the tannoy at Mall of the Emirates informs passengers that 'Train services are experiencing delays', something that metro commuters the world over can relate to.
Office types, tourists and excited families are all waiting for their first ride on the metro. The air conditioning in the station also doesn't appear to be working too well, it's very hot in here.

Published 11:50am, September 10, 2009

I'm a pedestrian again! I walked to MOE, which takes 2 mins, and topped up my Nol card ready to board. It's all very swish and new. The metro is energising. I feel quite free able to go wherever I choose. There aren't that many people around. Feels like a different place...

Published 11:45 am September 10, 2009

Rashidiya station

On the Metro station and was welcomed with an announcement that said “We are experiencing a delay and we are trying to sort it out. Thank you for your patience.'' Ting tong. Passengers are seen checking out the interiors, reading information and hoping from one seat to another on board the train.

Published 11:40am September 10, 2009


We are passing stations. More people are coming in. Both joyriders and office goers. The view is great from both sides. Dubai's landscape looks so different from the Metro.

We are reaching Nakheel Harbour. One hour just flew by. I'm getting ready to sum up my impressions of the first Metro ride for the video: "Impressive, right on track!"

Now we head back to Rashidiya in the same train. Work is done. Now I can relax and enjoy the ride before I get back to office and start cracking my story. Hunger pangs start bothering!

Published 11:37am September 10, 2009

My experience on the first train of Dubai Metro today was remarkable; it was like party with all the people smiling, taking pictures and talking about how smooth the journey is, how helpful the hostess are and how beautiful the stations and the trains are.

Took the first train from the Financial Centre station at around 6am and went all the way down to Deira City Centre station. Got off and took another train back to Nakheel Harbour and Tower station, and then took a third train to Mall of the Emirates station. Wonderful.

I am ready to take my son with me later today to go across the complete line, I am sure that he is going to enjoy it, just as I did.

Published 11:35am September 10, 2009

Rashidiya station

Lots of joyriders on board at Rashidiya. Slight delay announcement and we are now rolling. Everyone's busy taking pictures.

Published 11:30am, September 10, 2009

From Mall of the Emirates station:

I'm frequently running late and being a daily taxi user, have no qualms using the back of the cab as an extension of my bathroom. Brushing my hair, applying make up etc. Now if I do that in the Metro I'll have am audience of 30... Leaving my building I've already seen about 6 empty cabs circling and honking for customers. I have to ignore their pleas. I'm heading to MOE station.

Published 11:20am, September 10, 2009

At Nakheel Harbour and Tower station. Train services seem to be experiencing some delays on the Red Line. No reasons given!

Published 11:18am September 10, 2009

Curious glances as I move around the train and face the video. The interior is plush!!! I know I will come back for more. Everyone I spoke to told me the same.

One take after the other. The audio is getting interrupted by the onboard announcement. But I'm thoroughly enjoying it. So is Jaye!

Published 11:15 am September 10, 2009

From Rashidiya:

I'm at the Rashidiya Metro Station to get video shots. People are just swarming the station. Happy faces, all excited. There are plenty of officials and RTA staff to guide people around, some are heading to use the ATM facilities. The mood is festive.

Published 6:40am September 10, 2009


Cameras not allowed in the station. And Jaye's video is attracting all attention from the security. No piece to camera from the station, we agreed!!

Finally they let us in. It is 6.20. Our journey begins. The crowd is euphoric. I haven't see such excitement before!
It is simply awesome.. But before I can soak in the views, jay asks me to be ready for my first PtoC...

Published 6:07am September 10, 2009


Me and my videographer Jaye have reached on time. An eerie silence in the car park. No one boarding the train or what??

I'm mistaken. There are already a crowd waiting to get to the platform. Four security guys stop their way.. As we wait, people start trickling in. In no time I can see the crowd swelling. Bachelors, students, Emirati families. They all want to be on board. Just like me.

Published10:58pm, September 09, 2009

On board the first Dubai Metro train:

The first Dubai Metro train rolled out from the Mall of the Emirates station and it was a really smooth run. Shaikh Mohammad along with other dignitaries and officials travelled in the first compartment… The MOE station was elegant and beautifully themed, looked like a futuristic model. The mood on the train was festive and one of achievement.

The first stop was Financial Centre station, where Shaikh Mohammad and his entourage disembarked and launched a commemorative coin. There were similar ceremonies at five other stations. Security was high and the station signs and directions were very helpful. There were friendly staff to help us at every station as well.

The Earth-themed Union Square incidentally is the largest underground Metro station. At the Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 station, journalists were escorted to the train from Nakheel Harbour station which arrived carrying the lucky winners of the RTA's Golden Ticket competition. The train carried us to Rashidiya station, the terminal for the Red Line. Shaikh Mohammad installed a lego sculpture at this station.

It took us one hour to complete the historic journey from Mall of the Emirates station to Rashidiya station, the theme of which is based on air.

Published10:34pm, September 09, 2009

When Shaikh Mohammad came off the train at Rashidiya station, the eager crowd waiting outside rushed to get close to him, to crane their necks and catch a glimpse of him and take pictures. A glorious opportunity to get photographed with the leader. The mood at this station is ecstatic, people are celebrating everywhere.

Published 10:07pm September 09, 2009

I walked up to the Rashidiya station because the car park is strictly reserved for the VIPs of the day. I'm not complaining. I've made it on time thanks to my colleague Mahmood's good sense of direction.

Published 10:04pm, September 09, 2009

First time Metro users are having their family pictures taken and handed with a certificate. Organisers heard yelling: ''no certificates for the media!'' I can't blame them. There seem to be more media people here than anyone else. Everyone's excited.

Published10:01pm, September 09, 2009

As license plate number 1 pulls up to the station doors, the Press rush to the barrier armed with their cameras...Only to find that it was just being parked for Shaikh Mohammad's departure.

Published 9:57pm September 09, 2009

Shaikh Mohammad describes his first official ride on the Metro as "smooth and quiet" on his Twitter page.

Published 9:57pm, September 09, 2009

The train carrying the first set of people, the winners of RTA competitions, has just left the Nakheel Harbour station.

Published 9:40 pm September 09, 2009

The first Dubai Metro rolled out just past 9.09pm amid fireworks.

Published 8:18pm, September 09, 2009

Just arrived at the Nakheel station and queues have already started at the parking lot.

It seems that there is no WIFI access at the station and GSM network too seems to be weak.

Published 8:18pm, September 09, 2009

Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid arrives at MOE wearing a blue dishdasha and waves to the crowd. Around 50 officials in the entourage Shaikh Mohammad goes upstairs with a huge applause.

Bit difficult to move around the main event area as barriers made passages narrow. People are 2-3 deep around red rope circling galleria. Cameras are flashing in the crowd. Some kids whinning they can't see.

Published 8:05 pm September 09, 2009

Parked my car a kilometer away from where I have positioned myself. Drenched in sweat I walked to the place. Got a good spot on the flyover close to the Mall of the Emirates. With my video camera firmly fixed on the tripod and the lens zoomed towards the station I can see two metro trains ready to roll.

Under the station three fire brigades are on standby. With the traffic on Shaikh Zayed Road behaving things look pretty hassle free or is it the clam before the storm.

OH! here comes another television crew member armed with his massive camera. Why do I get the feeling that I am going to clash with him for space. Coz a narrow footpath on the flyover is all that we have at our disposal to fix our tripods.

Published 7:45pm September 09, 2009

It's hustle and bustle at Mall of the Emirates Station (MOE). Crowds have formed around Galleria but kept at distance from the ceremony area. Lots and lots of security ! VIP area full of people looking edgy...

Published 7.15pm, September 09, 2009

Invited journalists were the first to arrive at the venue at the Mall of the Emirates, which has been elegantly decorated for the opening ceremony. The whole area has been secured and shoppers are not being allowed near the Galleria area.

Published 6.05pm, September 09, 2009

I am on the bus at the RTA HQ, ready to go to Mall of the Emirates station for the historic event. Many jounalists whose names were not on the list were turned away.

Published 6pm, September 09, 2009

Just got to the Financial Centre station, the walk bridge is still closed, though you can see escalators and LCD monitors working, a policeman at the door is shooing people away. I have to say, even though I've seen the art and the stations as they were being built, the completed product does look very impressive.

Published 3:15pm September 09, 2009

All is quiet in the city's business district ahead of tonight's big launch but that may change later.

It's a different story though at Mall of the Emirates where the first train will depart from this evening. The red carpets are down and a huge structure has been erected in the heart of the mall featuring white-domed seating booths and Dubai Metro banners galore.

The new walkway from the mall to the metro station opened earlier today featuring a Cold Stone Creamery, a Borders Express and brands such as Nokia and Paperchase.

The excitement is already palpable here with plenty of people milling about and TV production companies setting up their equipment. I'm off to Carrefour to buy my Nol card.

Published 2:12pm September 09, 2009

Someone just reversed into my car on the sliproad by Financial Centre station!

Fortunately, there's no serious damage but maybe the Dubai Metro is the way ahead from tomorrow to avoid any more of these incidents!

Published 3:20pm September 09, 2009

Freeparking at Mall of the Emirates all day today. The 3-hour limit starts 10th. RTA presentation at Galleria Centre at MOE at 8pm. Sections of SZR will be blocked till Kempenski Hotel. About 200 VIPs expected. Shoppers will hve free acess to shops except at Galleria. After presentation His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum rides the Metro. Huge fireworks from Carrefour side.

Published 1:50pm September 09, 2009

At Nakheel Harbour and Tower Station. Here the Gold Card winners will be felicitated tonight. It looks like a gleaming futuristic pod after being cleaned up. Work is still on and buses are making trial runs.

Published 4.15pm September 09, 2009

At MOE.Got my Nol card from a check out at Carrefour. Only silver card was available. Tomorrow I can top it up from the actual station.

Published 3.15pm September 09, 2009

There's no happy corn in the walk way to metro! Only ice cream and electronics. Boring.Hmmm... Not good.

Spotted pile of 3D glasses near big white private structure in centre of MOE for function tonight. Must have some kind of surreal show planned for VIPs.

Published 3pm September 09, 2009

At MOE. Red carpets near Harvey Nichols. Preparations under way. Security guards knew exactly where to guide me to station. Going to buy Nol card now.

Published 1:45pm September 09, 2009

Final touches were being put on the MOE station with signs on the exterior of the station on Tuesday. Last night the station was lit up with beams of light into the sky and the passage over Shaikh Zayed road was also all it up. It looked quite futuristic! Saw several officials clutching clipboards wondering around the mall in the early evening as well, probably going through their check list …

Published 5.30 pm September 09, 2009

Exhausted and back in the office to collect the video gear I receive instructions from videographer Ashraf Helmi on manual and auto zoom.

"Remember it is all in your hands now. You are going to bring us the first shot of the metro rolling out on its inauguration run," he said. As I walked out, I heard him say from the video booth: "Good luck".

I am all set to take my place on top of a flyover, but my main worry is to find a good parking space near to that flyover from where I plan to film.

Published 2:50pm September 09, 2009

With no access granted for videographers and photographers, I found myself driving up and down the road from Mall of the Emirates to DIFC after the gym last nightto find a place from where I can get anaerial view of Metro tracks.

Approached at least half a dozen watchman and security men of residential buildings (including thoseunder construction), requesting them to allow me to climb rooftops from where I can perch myself, armed with my A1 video camera and a tripodto get that right shot when the Dubai Metro rolls down the track on its inaugural journey today from Mall of the Emirates to Rashidiya.

With no luck I decided to head home in Sharjah at 10:45pm.

Not the one to give up that easily, I set out on the same track today and entered into a tentative deal with a watchman of an under construction tall building to provide me with an access. Keeping my fingers crossed...

Published 1:02pm September 09, 2009

I got to leave. I havejust been told by the security that nobody is allowed in. As I find my way back to the car park, I can see hundreds of workers dusting and scrubbing every nook and corner of the station to make it squeaky clean for the big occasion tonight. I'm looking forward to it like every Dubaite. Back to office now.

Published 12:55pm September 09, 2009

RTA has made sure that the physically challenged passengers will not lose their way. There are special tiles all over the floor of the station which will guide them to the ticketing machines, elevators, restrooms and platforms. Dubai is indeed the City that Cares!!!

Don't mess up with the emergency switch to stop the train. You pay Dh2000 as fine.

Published 12:50pm September 09, 2009

I've made it to the platform. I'm so excited. The safety sliding door in front of the platform will open only when the train stops. I will have to wait till tomorrow to board my train because I'm not one of the winners of the Golden Ticket drive tonight (Tip no: 3. Platform no. 1 is for alighting. Platforms 2 and 3 for boarding. And there are 14 entrances on each platform. I justed counted them.

Published 12:46pm September 09, 2009

Tight security... I'm being stopped at every point. Police and RTA officials are inspecting the station and making sure everything is under control.

Here's a tip: You cannot enter the station if your Nol card is not topped up. You have to scan the card at the Automatic Fare Collection machine close to the entrance to reach the platforms.

Published 12:15pm September 09, 2009

I met the station master at Rashidiya. If my memory serves me right, the last time I said hello to a station master was when I was ten. I vividly remember the spectacled old man who looked like a school headmaster.

Published 11:45am September 09, 2009

My Nol card is topped up for Dh10. That is the only change I had in my purse. So the first tip is keep the exact amount you want to use to recharge your card. The cash vending machine (CVM) will not give you back the balance.

Published 11:30am September 09, 2009

I'm at the Rashidiya station. This place is buzzing with activity. Preparations are infull swing for the historic moment tonight, when the first Dubai Metro train rolls out.

A broken knob at the station entrance almost broke my toes... Telephones booths are not yet operational... But let me focus on the positives...

---

Your comments

I planned to travel by Dubai Metro only at 9 PM on Friday. Walked from Naif Road to Union Square station. Got 20 Dhs silver card (use value 14 dhs). After waiting for about 15 minutes one train to Rashidiya side another to Jebel Ali side arrived. Thought better to take Rashidiya side. Wonderful journey. Got down at Terminal 3 station. Took another train within next 10 minutes towards Jebel Ali. Got down at Deira City centre. Went to food court had returned home by Taxi around 11.50 PM .
Dr. J. Prabhakar
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 12, 2009, 11:02

Fantastic. however, people were jumping from regular class to gold class. the gold class was full with people who paid for less.
Basil
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 12, 2009, 03:43

Dubai Metro is just amazing, tried it today and loved it. Dubai has done it again. i have one small complaint: the gold car was full with people who paid for silver. no one was checking at all.
Gabriel
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 12, 2009, 03:39

Dubai Rocks! U name it, Dubai has it!
Mohammad Othman
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 12, 2009, 03:27

I went to the burjuman station last night at around 10.30pm and I have got to say the station is so well done and just awesome! But the staff were very disorganised and no one to help people. The ticket machines were getting stuck and not working and no one to assist us. And I could see people who have returned from the Metro journey all lined up and confused on how to use the cards. At such a time the staff should be everywhere and active to help the people to fasten the process. We finally bought our tickets and waited for half an hour and still no Metro and there was no one to give us info on what time the metro arrives and why the delay.when we finally asked someone there he says he doesn't know why the delay! This was such a hassle and we finally didn't go on the Metro due to all the hassle. The Metro is done so well, but I hope the staff live upto the standard and be more helpful to passengers.
Aliah
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 12, 2009, 01:16

I had lot of expectations from the Metro. With these expectations I decided to travel on it from Rashidiya to Union Square. I thought I will reach earlier than usual but just after Rashidiya, before terminal 3 the train stopped and only after 2 hours did they announce that the train will not move. I couldn?t even end my fast. I have traveled in the Metro in Delhi, India, and it is excellent.
Nabeel Rahman
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 12, 2009, 01:02

it has made very big impact to dubai and has made it so much easier
Osama Al Hassani
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 11:50

The first journey at7pm from Rashidiya to MOE was thrilling. The anticipation on every commuters mind was cleared by the courteous staff at the station. The stations have a very modern and classy feel. The view from the gold class was simply breathtaking! The excitement and enthusiasm was reflecting on every commuter's face who came equipped with their cameras. But much to our dismay at 10 pm just outside MOE station hoards (about 500+) of commuters were waiting to enter the station. After about 40 minutes only about 200-300 commuters were let into the station and we thought finally we could get home, but the struggle was far from over. As we got in pushing and shoving only to realise that there were about few hundreds of people awaiting their turn at the card scanning gates and more waiting on the station to get into the trains. It was about 10.50 then and our legs started hurting and we felt suffocated in the huge crowd. Finally,we thought we would never be able to get home at this pace so we decided to take our good ol' mode to get home. I guess this is just 'teething troubles' that the Metro faced because it was just the first day!
Priyanka Doshi
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 11:41

Yesterday i tried metro service and found to be good service.Ofcourse there are some issues at the ticket vending machines and at the overenineered massive building stuctures showing lot of exit to all side and chjaos noticed people are going east ..west ..south and north directions and coming back,asking help to security etc ....but seems to be that this will be only for a learning curve period.Hope Dubai metro could start other stations as fast as possible to avoid big ques .Salutes to all who made this mission a sucess.
Fabio
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 09:42

It is certainly an achievement for the Dubai Government and RTA. However, the ride that we took today was bad. It took us 2 hours and 15 mins to get from Airport T3 to MOE station. In addition, it was a free for all policy in all cabins. You could see men in women
Faisal
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 02:33

I have been to many metro's in different countries around the world, but trust me this is the best in all ways!!! we should understand that this is just the first of its kind in the region and they will have some technical difficulties at the start but Im confident RTA will cover it all asap. I went from Khalid bin Waleed station to MOE station today and it was a very pleasant experience. Congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed on this huges success of Dubai and Good Job RTA, thumbs up!!!
Naseem
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 01:24

Reminded me of Dehli metro,so many countless heads throning in queues for the tickets.Well I boarded the train from burjuman to mall of emirates,it was a wonderful experience, but i had t stand. Then the confusion on return fom mall of emirates.It took me two hours from the ist gate to the train.Seems we were not reay for the rush. Suddenly the train stopped just before reaching the burjuman.The annoucment system was giving wrong information,the esclators were not working.We need to do more home work. keep it up
DR Ajaz Yasmin
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 01:21

I am happy that i was a part of Dubai Metro construction work, not withstading for very little time, but i am proud to be the Engineer worked over for few months. Long live Dubai.
Gul Hameed
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 00:52

I definitely feel that Metro is going to be a big hit in Dubai. People will be using it more on weekends as though they were using a ride at an amusement park. This trend will continue atleast past DSF2010. I personally paln to take my kids for a ride up and down between 2 end points tomorrow. Congratulations to RTA
Joel G. Fernandes
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 00:43

i can not wait till i get on train on 17 sep so dubai i,m on my way to you from indian ocean abd i wish it will be in bahrain soon
Omar Hassan
Riffa,Bahrain
Posted: September 11, 2009, 00:23

with the new transport system of Dubai which is Dubai Metro, now Dubai is ready to face-off with Singapore or Hong Kong's... my first ride this morning, i must say this, was quite good..i never felt any tension in the so-called 'roller coaster ride' in Sheikh Zayed Road.As the Metro approaches the undergrounds, it adds the thrill and excitement. The murals are superb! Stations were like precious gems! Facilitators were hospitable enough! Congratulations Dubai Metro and keep up the good work!!! I will use the Metro as my daily transportation from Al Barsha to my workplace in Garhoud... My City, My Metro!!!!!
Anwar Malon
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 11, 2009, 00:01

Hearty Congratulations to his Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai I am really proud and salute him for this great achievement in bringing the metro to the public at the right time And thanks to RTA and all the workers who worked day and night and made the wonderful opening ceremony.
Vijay D Sadhnani
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 16:10

I was on the metro yesterday! I won the golden ticket in a radio program. We had very good time, everyone was happy and media was everywhere. We got very nice souvenire gifts with the phrase "I rode Dubai Metro on 09/09/09"
Sami
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 14:39

I am so happy listening the start of Metro from last night. I felt like I am in one of the best country in the gulf. I felt like I am in the train while watching the news telecasted. I thank my self by joining with my friends and family to Our Dynamic leader His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and the associates for their work.
Yousuf
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 13:52

The Bus number 45 service was free for passenger before now they have to pay, And the silver cards that RTA is selling is not free out of 20, 6 dirhams are for card with 14 dirham balance.
Ali
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 13:36

I m very exited to first ride for Dubai Metro From Nakheel Harbour Stn. at today 5 o' clock Today is my great memorable day in my life. Once agian i thankfulll to Dubai 's Shaikh .
Shah Harsh Devesh
Dubai,U.A.E
Posted: September 10, 2009, 12:57

Dubai metro is very sucessful for all hard workers.
Karthik
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 12:26

Iam really proud about the RTA in bringing the metro to the public at the right time
Prasanth Krishnan Kutty
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 12:17

My friends and i have planned an entire metro trip on a friday after ramadan but u send me the timings of Metro bcoz it cant mentioned any newspaper or ur site
Deepti Chimnani
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 11:42

Hats off to all those who have made this METRO a success and most of all MABROOK to his Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, for this great project. I can't wait to go to Dubai and witness myself boarding Metro.
Christine Blanco
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 11:31

Having been on board Delhi Metro for some months now, I can feel how people of Dubai experience one of the fastest and convenient mode of metropolitan transportation and what change that bring to their metro life. Kudos Dubai Metro.
Salih Dehlavi
Delhi,India
Posted: September 10, 2009, 11:12

This is a remarkable day for all the Dubai commuters and KUDOS to all the contraction workers who have made this dream become a reality, especially working under the scortching sun, also we are grateful for his highness Sheikh Mohammed for all his hard work and effort for making Dubai one of the most developed countries to live in the world.
Pauliene
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 10:57

it is good if the time will be 05.00am to 01.00am
Iqlak Sekason
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 10:35

It's really a BIG Achivement by RTA, Which is really going to Help lots of people to reach Early to work or Home .. DUBAI METRO will not put SMILE not on 1.2 Million people .. it will be 1.2 Million Families..Keep it UP RTA ..Great JOB TEAM
Rochak Puri
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 10:10

On 10.09.09 around 8 AM, I did my first Metro trip from Nakheel Harbour station to Union Square for just Dh4.10. Its a great ecstasy and life becomes dramatically very easy. Usually we drive on Shaikh Zayed Road, but today my ride is over that with excellent views of My City Dubai. Congrats!
Muneer Shariff
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 09:36

I remember this event when first bus runs in my village. Everyone celebrates by giving sweets to the driver and passengers and the bus was fully decorated by colour papers, plants and flowers.Herein Dubai, thousands of miles away from village I feel the same when the Metro launches. I share my happiness by calling my parents and relatives living in India.
Abdul Jaleel Pallipparamba
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 09:13

Dubai Metro going to reduce the number of accidents and traffic. We hope many people will be using it. Also we hop that all stations will be operational very soon.
Ziad Abuoun
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 09:11

It is a Great Day for Dubai. A milestone in the citys History.
Amanullah Thakur
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 08:38

Hearty Congratulations to the all those associated with the conception, planning, designing, construction, successful completion, operation and maintenance of the METRO. Credit must be given to all those Workers who toiled for years in this heat, dedicatedly, without whom this project would have been impossible. Dynamic leadership of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai will enable many more landmarks in coming years.
Ramani
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 05:56

Congrats, Mr. Mohammad! This is truly amazing - a feat symbolical to your commendable enthusiasm and vision to make Dubai and UAE a great place to live in!
Subrata
Kuala Lumpur,Malaysia
Posted: September 10, 2009, 04:36

Congratulations to RTA.
Mohammad Rafeek
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 04:23

I salute to Shaikh Mohammad for this great achievement. The great shaikh who care for their people. We are proud of you. And thanks to RTA and all the workers who worked day and night and made the wonderful opening ceremony possiblw. Dubai ? the city that cares!
Nasir Khan
Ras Al Khaimah,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 02:16

Excellent. I would say the proudest moment of Dubai and UAE. With opening of Metro Dubai stood up to its mark.
Abdul Basit
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 01:42

I am just waiting to experience a ride in the Metro. Bit eager to know about almost everything in regards to Metro and the stations. The launch of Metro is like a big celebration happening in my own family. Dubai being my city, I just cannot wait for the early hours of the first day to watch and experience my Metro.
Latha Siby
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 01:07

Congratulations to all concerned authorities they've done tremendous job under the keen supervision of Shaikh Mohammad who has dedicated himself to provide world's best class facilities for Dubai?s residents. Excellent!
Sarfraz Ahmad
Abu Dhabh,UAE
Posted: September 10, 2009, 00:23

I think that the metro should start early if possible by 5:30AM because it will be easy for the people coming from other emirates because it takes time to park the car, get the train, reach your station and then finally reach your office and then maybe your office may already start.
Kevin Kurian
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 23:07

I have been here in this part of the world since 1971, and have seen UAE growing step by step. I believe this is the best and most awaited achievement. Congratulations to Shaikh Mohammad bin Rashid and all the UAE residents
Husain Ahmed Basha
Ajman,U.A.E
Posted: September 09, 2009, 22:47

Now on, I hope not to be dependent on any car lifts, waiting long hours for taxis, or even bother about getting a lift to drop me off in needy times. With the arrival of the Metro, like every Dubai resident, I am actually awaiting to get a first ride on 10th and plan out my daily schedule. This is definitely going to save a lot of my time that used to be spent on long traffic signals. Kudos to DUBAI METRO team for their efficiency and completion on work on time as promised .
Sumita Nair
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 22:10

I have been in the country since 1994 and have grown along with the emirates. I am proud to be part of this historical occasion of Metro Launch in Dubai on 09.09.09 by our Beloved Visionary Leader His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum whom I admire. Wishes all who have been part of this project, especially RTA in bringing sustainable travel to Dubai as scheduled. I surely will take my wife, 2 Daughters and my son who is fond of Trains on a ride tomorrow.
Natarajan Somasundaram
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 21:59

We cannot believe that 4 years passed away , feel just 4 days before we started to work on the metro project!! It's really amazing , we can proudly say well done Dubai Metro and Hats off to our great" His Highness Shaikh Mohammad"
James
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 21:57

I am a regular bus rider for the past years, among many who earns low wages. Before "nol" was introduce I was only paying 1.80 every trip from where I live to work, which means I only spent 3.60 everyday, 108 a month.. Now with the "nol" I pay 4.10 per trip or 8.2 a day, which is 246 per month....do your math and you'll see the difference.....its 15% of what I earn per month.
Jhel
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 21:12

Congratulations to all those associated with the Dubai Metro project
Stephen
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 19:30

I am really unfortunate not to see this pride of Dubai but hoping to see it very soon. enjoy the ride Dubai :)
Sayyed Ali Asghar
London,United Kingdom
Posted: September 09, 2009, 19:05

I'm also eagerly waiting to see the historic moments. Every day am travelling across the Shaikh Zayed road and each time I?m looking the stations status. Whatever the employees behind this projects are really appreciated.
Srikanth Nair
Dubai,India
Posted: September 09, 2009, 18:45

We hope that it should help to reduce traffic by 30-40%. But Anajana is lucky to watch launch of Gulf's first Metro train. May be one of most advance train in the world.
Virendra Gujarathi
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 15:32

KUDOS TO HIS HIGHNESS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING AND GLORIOUS ACHIEVEMENT WE ARE ALL PROUD OF HIM, GOD BLESS HIM WITH MANY MORE SUCH REMARKABLE FEAT TO COME
Subrata Kanta
Dehradun,India
Posted: September 09, 2009, 13:48

Does RTA have any plans to increase the number of Dubai Metro trains in near future?
Kashif
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 13:48

Here we go and here comes the day we waited since 4years has finally reached a landmark and a tremendous support from all the people of the uae it has been a historic event and a dream come true event for the people of the country thanks to all the staff and workers who have been spend the energy and worked day and night for this fascinating event to take place with in the given stipulated time. tonight there will be a boom of fireworks all around the country for the support of such a wonderful opening ceremony JUST WAIT AND WATCH THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS 123 GET SET GO.........WOW
Imran Naeem Shaikh
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 13:42

I'm proud to be associated with this prestegious project from the day 1 it's been announced. We have done several jobs for the metro at Union Sq, Rigga Stns. We are the first people in the UAE to give light at the site by installing the poles and connecting the illuminaries. Overwhelmed by the progress of the project and longing into watch the live action when the first train rolls out officially.
Srini
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 13:41

do you think the operational time from 6 am to 11 pm will be sufficient for the commuters.
Abdul Rasheed Hayat Khan
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 09, 2009, 13:34