In a city known for its sky-piercing towers and seamless innovation, public transportation in Dubai is more than just a commute—it’s part of the city’s identity. And few stations exemplify this better than GGICO Metro Station, now officially renamed Al Garhoud Metro Station as of April 14, 2025.

Strategically located along Sheikh Rashid Road and serving the Red Line of the Dubai Metro, this station offers more than just a stopover. It’s a vital connector between Dubai International Airport, the historic Deira district, and emerging business hubs like the Airport Free Zone.

Table of Contents

A Quick Update: GGICO is Now Al Garhoud

In April 2025, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the official renaming of GGICO Metro Station to Al Garhoud Metro Station, aligning the station more closely with its geographical location. Despite the change, residents and long-time commuters still refer to it affectionately by its previous name, GGICO—an acronym for Gulf General Investment Company, a public investment firm established in 1973 that once sponsored the station’s title.

Why GGICO (Al Garhoud) Metro Station Matters

Located in the Al Garhoud district, this station is more than a transit point—it’s a multimodal hub that interlinks commercial districts, residential zones, and Dubai’s international airport.

Key Highlights:

Line: Red Line (R15)
Zone: 5
Adjacent Stations: City Centre Deira (R16) and Airport Terminal 1 (R14)
Nearby Roads: Sheikh Rashid Road (E11), Airport Road (D89)

From the GGICO platform, passengers can easily connect to:

Airport Terminals 1 & 3 (two stops away)
Downtown Dubai via BurJuman and Union stations
Expo 2020 and UAE Exchange towards the southwestern terminus

Station Design & Passenger Facilities

GGICO Metro Station reflects Dubai’s transit philosophy: accessibility, comfort, and urban efficiency. With a sleek, elevated architectural design, the station features:

Air-conditioned platforms and waiting areas
Free Wi-Fi access and charging ports
Clear bilingual signage in Arabic and English
Elevators and ramps for persons of determination
Lost and found services
Retail outlets and food kiosks
Public restrooms and baby changing stations
Cycle parking and dedicated taxi bays

Whether you’re boarding with a suitcase or a stroller, the layout ensures a smooth, barrier-free experience.

GGICO Metro Timings & Service Frequency

Dubai’s Metro system operates with military precision, and GGICO Station is no exception. Here are the typical operating hours (as per 2025 RTA updates):

🚇 Weekdays (Mon–Thurs):

First Train: ~5:04 AM
Last Train: ~11:57 PM (towards UAE Exchange)

🚇 Fridays:

Extended Hours: Services till ~12:57 AM (Saturday)

🚇 Weekends (Sat–Sun):

Saturdays: Trains from ~5:12 AM to 11:59 PM
Sundays: Slightly later start (~8:11 AM)

Service frequency ranges from 4–7 minutes during peak hours, ensuring minimal wait times.

📲 Tip: Download the S’hail App or Moovit to view real-time schedules and plan your transfer seamlessly.

How to Get There: Bus, Metro, and More

GGICO is remarkably well-connected across all modes of Dubai public transit.

🚍 Buses:

Lines that stop nearby include 24, 32C, 33, 4, 43, C1, 11A, E700
Nearest bus stops: Bustan Rotana Hotel – 01, Cargo Village – 01

🚇 Metro:

Served by M1 line
Transfers to Green Line available at Union or BurJuman

🚖 Taxis & Ride-Share:

Ample taxi stands available
Drop-off zones at 55 Street entrances

Fares and Nol Card Zones

GGICO falls in Zone 5, with fares ranging from:

AED 3–10, depending on zones crossed
Discounts for:
- Senior citizens (60+)
- Students
- Children under 5 travel free

Payments are made via the Nol Card, accepted across all metro, tram, and bus services in Dubai. Reload at ticket vending machines or designated kiosks.

Travel to Popular Destinations

Want to get to Mall of the Emirates from GGICO? Here are your top options:

🛤️ Subway (Best Option)

Route: GGICO → BurJuman → Mall of the Emirates
Time: ~35 minutes
Cost: ~AED 3–6

🚖 Taxi

Distance: 23 km
Time: 17 minutes (off-peak)
Fare: AED 22–27

🚗 Car

Ideal for families or groups
Parking available at destination malls and hotels

What’s Nearby? Points of Interest Around GGICO

Being at GGICO Metro Station places you in a vibrant pocket of Dubai. Within minutes, you can reach:

🛍️ Shopping

City Centre Deira
Dubai Festival City Mall
Al Ghurair Centre

🏨 Hotels

Grand Mercure Dubai Airport
Flora Inn Hotel
Ibis Styles Dubai Airport
Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
Aloft City Centre Deira

🏞️ Attractions

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium
Traditional souks in Deira (Gold Souk, Spice Souk)

Sustainability & Smart Transit

As part of Dubai’s future-forward vision, GGICO integrates:

Solar lighting
Smart escalators
Driverless train systems
Eco-friendly waste management

Every ride on the Red Line through GGICO helps reduce the city’s carbon footprint, aligning with Dubai 2030’s green mobility goals.

Cultural Relevance: More Than a Station

GGICO serves as a melting pot of cultures, reflective of Dubai itself. With signage in multiple languages and universal design standards, it’s a symbol of inclusion. You’ll hear Arabic, English, Hindi, and Tagalog echo through the corridors—a true snapshot of Dubai’s diverse identity.

FAQs about GGICO Metro Station (Al Garhoud)

Is GGICO the same as Al Garhoud Metro Station?

Yes. The station was renamed in April 2025 by the RTA, though locals still use both names interchangeably.

How do I know which direction to take from GGICO?

Platform 1: Trains towards UAE Exchange (via Downtown, BurJuman)
Platform 2: Trains towards Rashidiya (via Airport, Union)

Can I get to the airport from GGICO?

Yes. Terminal 1 is just one stop away, and Terminal 3 is two stops away.

Are there restaurants or food outlets inside GGICO Station?

Yes. You’ll find cafes, kiosks, and snack counters at the station.

What’s the best way to pay for a ride?

Use the Nol Card—a contactless smart card accepted across all RTA transport systems.

What if I lose something at the station?

The station has a lost and found desk, managed by the RTA staff. You can also report items via the RTA’s official app.

Final Thoughts: GGICO is More Than a Commute

Whether you’re a business traveler rushing to Dubai Airport, a local commuting from Deira, or a tourist navigating the city’s metro marvels, GGICO Metro Station (Al Garhoud) offers a seamless, fast, and culturally rich ride.

At Thedubaiweb.com, we recognize that understanding your city’s transport isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about embracing the full journey. With GGICO, you’re not just riding the rails—you’re tapping into the pulse of modern Dubai.

Author
Recent Posts

Emila

Emila is a professional content writer and UAE resident for the past 6 years. Passionate about travel and local exploration, she specializes in creating in-depth guides on UAE destinations, the Dubai Metro, public buses, and practical tips for residents and tourists alike. Through her writing on thedubaiweb.com, Emila helps readers navigate the UAE with ease and confidence.