In view of the Dubai Marathon 2026 being held today in Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has made significant changes in the operating timings of metro services. The main objective of this change is to help thousands of runners and spectators participating in the marathon reach the venue on time and easily. Usually, Dubai Metro services start a little late in the morning on Sundays, but in view of this big event, a special timetable has been implemented for today.
On Sunday, metro service will start three hours earlier than usual i.e. from 5 am instead of 8 am.
On Sunday, February 1, metro services have started from 5 am instead of the usual time of 8 am. According to the new schedule released by RTA, this special timing change will be effective on both the Red Line and Green Line. Running the metro early in the morning will not only benefit the athletes participating in the marathon but will also provide relief to the spectators who want to reach the venue early in the morning to secure their place. This step of the administration has been taken in the direction of maintaining smooth traffic in the city.
In view of the possibility of traffic diversion on the roads due to the marathon, passengers are advised to use metro.
The Dubai Marathon is one of the most prestigious sporting events in the city, attracting huge crowds. Due to the Marathon Route, traffic remains affected on many major roads of the city and routes are diverted at many places. In such a situation, people may have to face traffic jams or parking problems if they use private vehicles. Keeping this in mind, the RTA has appealed to residents and tourists to use public transport, especially the metro, to reach the destination. By starting the service from 5 am, crowd management will be done in a better way.
To make the journey smooth and hassle-free, ensure adequate balance in your Nol Card and keep track of time
For the convenience of passengers, RTA has advised them to plan their journey before leaving home. To avoid crowding at metro stations, ensure that your Nol Card has sufficient balance or top it up online. Metro services will continue to run as per their normal Sunday schedule after the marathon. With this special arrangement, it will be easier for the residents of Dubai to commute early in the morning even on Sunday holidays.