If you're a daily commuter on the Dubai Metro, especially the Red Line, there's an important update for you. Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced an improvement to the timetable of the Red Line Y junction, where three railways meet. Effective from 15 April 2024, this change aims to streamline journeys by eliminating the need for passengers to interchange at Jebal Ali Metro Station.
Previously, passengers travelling to UAE Exchange had to switch trains at Jebal Ali Metro Station. With the recent upgrade, Dubai Metro will now run two direct routes from Centrepoint: one to UAE Exchange and the other to Expo 2020. This means you no longer need to change at Jebal Ali Metro Station for UAE Exchange and can take a direct route instead.
Similarly, trips starting from Expo 2020 and UAE Exchange will run directly to Centrepoint, simplifying commuting for everyone.
The upgrade involves a major change to the operating system of the Red Lines on Dubai Metro, introducing a Y junction to ensure punctuality during peak times. This international standard operation, called Y-junction train operations, will run trains alternately.
Extra staff will be assigned to assist and inform passengers before and after the implementation for a few weeks.
Hassan Al Mutawa, Director of Rail Operation at RTA emphasised that these enhancements were determined based on studies indicating a consistent rise in the use of Dubai Metro’s Red Line.
He added, "Passengers would no longer need to interchange / swap at Jebal Ali Metro Station. The commuters travelling from Ibn Battuta station to UAE Exchange can now benefit from a direct journey, while those heading to Gardens, EXPO 2020 can conveniently board a train directly to their destination, explained Al Mutawa. Additionally, terminal station information would be prominently displayed on Passenger digital Information screens at platforms and announced via public announcements upon train arrivals, further enhancing passenger convenience."
How Will This Benefit The Dubai Metro And Users?
- Decreased station crowds and waiting times will enhance the passenger journey experience.
- It would result in energy savings achieved through reduced train kilometres, lower power consumption during runs, and fewer trains needed to operate the new timetable.