International City Metro Station, UAE: Your Complete 2025 Guide
Dubai’s International City has long been one of the most affordable and culturally vibrant neighborhoods in the city. But while its community spirit and global charm have drawn thousands of residents, one question continues to arise: when will the metro finally reach International City?
Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming International City Metro Station, the current nearest metro and bus connections, and what the future of Dubai’s metro network means for this fast-growing community.
Is There a Metro Station in International City, Dubai?
As of now, there is no direct metro station inside International City. However, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has already integrated International City into the future Blue Line — a massive metro expansion project announced in 2023 that will reshape how Dubai’s outer communities connect with the rest of the emirate.
Until construction is completed, travelers and residents rely on Etisalat by & Metro Station and Centrepoint Metro Station (formerly Rashidiya) — two major hubs on the Green Line and Red Line, respectively. Both stations are well-connected to International City via frequent RTA bus routes.
Etisalat by e& Metro Station (Green Line)
- Metro Line: Green Line
- Bus Route: 367 — runs from Etisalat Metro Bus Stop directly to International City.
- Average Travel Time: ~15 minutes
- Nearby Areas: Al Qusais, Al Twar, and Muhaisnah
This station is ideal for commuters living in Warsan, Academic City, or the Al Warqaa area who prefer a more direct connection to International City via RTA bus service.
Centrepoint Metro Station (Red Line)
- Metro Line: Red Line
- Bus Route: F01 — connects Centrepoint Metro Bus Station with International City and Dragon Mart.
- Average Travel Time: ~16 minutes
- Nearby Areas: Al Rashidiya, Mirdif, and Dubai International Airport
This station is particularly convenient for travelers arriving through Dubai International Airport (DXB), as it sits near Terminal 3 and connects to several city-wide transport networks.
How to Use the Metro and Bus to Reach International City
Traveling between the metro and bus is simple — and affordable — when you use Dubai’s unified fare system.
- Get a Nol Card: A rechargeable Nol card is required for metro, bus, and tram rides across Dubai.
- Transfer Smartly: If you board a bus within 30 minutes after leaving the metro, the system counts both as one journey, saving you on total fare.
For frequent commuters, this combination of metro + RTA bus remains the most efficient way to reach International City until the dedicated station opens.
The Future: Dubai Metro Blue Line and International City Station
The Dubai Metro Blue Line is one of the city’s most ambitious transport projects to date. Expected to be completed by 2029, it will feature 14 new stations and connect the existing Red and Green lines, extending public transport to areas that have long awaited direct metro access.
🏙️ Planned Stations in International City:
- International City 1 Metro Station – serving the core residential clusters.
- International City Phase 2 Metro Station – covering the expanding southern developments.
These stations will bring seamless connectivity between International City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Al Warqaa, drastically cutting commute times and improving accessibility.
About International City
Developed by Nakheel, International City spans over 8 million square metres in the Al Warsan region of Dubai. It’s home to more than 60,000 residents representing diverse nationalities, earning its name through themed clusters such as France, China, England, Greece, and Morocco.
The community is strategically located opposite the Dubai Central Fruit and Vegetable Market, near Dragon Mart and Dubai Safari Park, offering residents affordable housing, convenient retail options, and growing transport links.
RTA Bus Routes Serving International City
International City is currently serviced by several RTA bus routes, ensuring easy access to the metro and key parts of the city:
- Route 367: Etisalat by e& Metro Station → International City
- Route F01: Centrepoint Metro Station → Dragon Mart → International City
- Route X23: Gold Souq Bus Station → International City
- Routes 53, 300, 366: Connecting surrounding communities like Al Qusais, Rashidiya, and Warsan
Buses operate regularly, especially during peak hours, making them a reliable alternative until the metro line is operational.
Alternative Transport Options
While RTA buses are economical, many commuters prefer faster or more flexible options, including:
- Dubai Taxis – regulated by the RTA and easily available across International City.
- Ride-Hailing Services – apps like Careem and Uber operate efficiently in the area.
- Car Rentals – ideal for long-term residents who prefer private mobility; numerous agencies operate near Dragon Mart and Al Warqaa.
Dubai Metro Expansion: Vision 2040
The Dubai Metro network is continuously evolving. According to the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040, the metro will expand from 140 km to over 228 km, featuring 96 to 140 stations by 2040. This long-term development will make Dubai one of the world’s best-connected cities, with International City positioned as a key node in the southeastern transport corridor.
FAQs About International City Metro Station
1. Is there a metro in Dubai International City?
Not yet — the International City Metro Station is part of the upcoming Blue Line, scheduled for completion by 2029. Until then, the nearest metro access points are Etisalat by e& and Centrepoint.
2. Which RTA bus goes to International City?
The X23 and 367 bus routes serve International City directly, connecting it with the Gold Souq and Etisalat Metro Station, respectively.
3. How far is International City from Centrepoint Metro Station?
It takes about 16 minutes by RTA bus (F01) or 11 minutes by taxi to reach International City from Centrepoint Station.
4. Can I get a taxi in International City?
Yes. Dubai Taxi Corporation and services like Careem operate 24/7 across the neighborhood, offering everything from standard taxis to limousines and airport transfers.
5. How many clusters are there in International City, Dubai?
International City features 10 country-themed clusters, each inspired by global architectural styles, alongside commercial areas and residential extensions in Phase 2.
Final Thoughts
The International City Metro Station isn’t just a new stop — it’s a symbol of Dubai’s urban inclusivity and commitment to sustainable transport. When it opens, it will transform the daily commute for thousands of residents, reducing travel times and enhancing accessibility to Dubai’s major business and leisure hubs.
Until then, Etisalat by e& and Centrepoint Metro Stations, combined with efficient RTA buses, keep International City well-connected — a testament to Dubai’s smart and evolving transport ecosystem.
For more local travel guides, Dubai metro updates, and community insights, visit TheDubaiWeb.com — your trusted digital companion to life, movement, and opportunity in the UAE.
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