GGICO Metro Station Dubai (Al Garhoud Metro Station): The Complete Travel And Timing Guide

GGICO Metro Station Dubai. Dubai’s metro network is one of the easiest ways to move around the city, and among its many stops, the Al Garhoud Metro Station, widely known by its older name GGICO Metro Station, remains one of the most useful stations on the Red Line.

Whether you are heading to Dubai International Airport, visiting a hotel in Al Garhoud, or simply passing through on your daily commute, this station connects you to almost every major part of the city.

In this guide, we will cover everything about this station in one place the exact location, train timings, station facilities, fare details, nearby hotels and restaurants, bus connections, and much more.

Quick Overview of Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station

Al Garhoud Metro Station sits right in the heart of the Al Garhoud district, at the point where Sheikh Rashid Road (E11) meets Airport Road (D89). This location makes it a natural stopping point for anyone travelling between the city centre and Dubai International Airport.

The station carries the code R15 and falls under Fare Zone 5 of the Dubai Metro network. It was originally named after the Gulf General Investment Company (GGICO), a well-known Dubai-listed public shareholding company that has been operating since 1973. Because of this history, many residents and even taxi drivers still call it “GGICO Station” even though its official name has since changed to Al Garhoud Metro Station.

The station is surrounded by a mix of hotels, offices, residential towers, and retail outlets, which keeps footfall steady throughout the day. It connects passengers to the airport, business districts, shopping malls, and popular tourist attractions, making it one of the more versatile stops on the Red Line.

Read Also: Deira City Centre Bus Station Dubai: Complete Guide To Timings

Location and How to Reach Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station

The station is positioned between City Centre Deira (R16) and Airport Terminal 1 (R14) on the Red Line, which means it is only a couple of minutes away from Dubai’s main airport terminal by train. This makes it a favourite stop for travellers who are staying nearby and need quick airport access.

If you are travelling by road, here are some approximate driving times from popular areas of Dubai and Sharjah to reach the station:

• Around 25 minutes from Al Nahda 2 Building, Dubai
• Around 46 minutes from JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
• Around 49 minutes from Nadd Al Sheba Road, Dubai
• Around 56 minutes from near Safa Park, Dubai
• Around 59 minutes from Expo Centre Sharjah
• Around 60 minutes from Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, Dubai
• Around 60 minutes from Sharjah Industrial Area 3, Sharjah

These are estimated driving times and may change depending on traffic conditions, so it is always a good idea to check live traffic apps before setting off, especially during Dubai’s busy rush hours.

History and Background of the Station

Understanding the background of this station helps explain why it has two names that are both still commonly used today.

The station first opened its doors in 2010 as part of the original launch of the Red Line, Dubai’s first metro line. At the time, it was named GGICO Station after the Gulf General Investment Company, whose headquarters are located close by. GGICO itself is a diversified business group with interests in real estate, hospitality, and retail, and its presence in the area made the name a natural fit for the station.

Years later, as Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) moved forward with a citywide digital branding and station-naming initiative, the station was officially renamed. On Monday, 14 April 2025, the station’s official name was changed to Al Garhoud Metro Station, better reflecting the wider neighbourhood it serves rather than just one company. Despite the official rename, “GGICO Metro Station” and “GGICO Station” remain extremely popular search terms and everyday names among Dubai residents, taxi drivers, and long-time commuters.

The Red Line itself, which this station belongs to, opened in 2009 and is considered the busiest and longest-running line in the Dubai Metro system. It runs from Rashidiya in the northeast all the way to UAE Exchange (also referred to as Centrepoint or Jebel Ali area) in the southwest, passing through many of the city’s most important business, residential, and tourist zones along the way.

Station Infrastructure and Design

Al Garhoud Metro Station was built with modern infrastructure designed to handle large numbers of passengers comfortably. The station has a strong capacity to manage heavy footfall, especially during rush hours when commuters heading to and from the airport, offices, and hotels pass through.

Some of the design highlights include:

• Sheltered, air-conditioned platforms that protect passengers from Dubai’s heat
• Wide walkways and clear directional signage throughout the station
• Elevators and tactile guidance paths for passengers with special needs
• Reserved seating areas for elderly passengers, pregnant women, and people of determination
• Safety systems and emergency protocols managed jointly by the RTA and Dubai government authorities
• Food and beverage outlets located within the station premises for passenger convenience

The station was built to be accessible from various parts of the UAE, and its design keeps both efficiency and passenger comfort as a top priority.

Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station Timings

One of the most searched pieces of information about this station is its train timings. Below, we have broken down the schedule clearly for both directions of travel, covering weekdays, Fridays, and weekends. Because timings can be updated periodically by the RTA, we recommend double-checking with the RTA’s official app before an important trip, but the figures below reflect the most recently published schedule.

Dubai ZIP Code 2026: Everything to Know

Direction 1: From Expo 2020 Towards Centrepoint / UAE Exchange

This direction covers trains moving from City Centre Deira, through Al Garhoud (GGICO), and onward to Airport Terminal 1.

Previous Station: R16 City Centre Deira Next Station: R14 Airport Terminal 1

Monday to Thursday & Friday

Saturday & Sunday

Tip for mobile users: If the table looks cramped on your phone, turn your screen sideways (landscape mode) to view it more clearly.

Helpful tip: Carrying a Nol Red Card makes your journey much smoother, letting you skip ticket counters and pass through gates faster.

Direction 2: From Centrepoint Towards Expo 2020

This direction covers trains moving from Airport Terminal 1, through Al Garhoud (GGICO), and onward to City Centre Deira.

Previous Station: R14 Airport Terminal 1 Next Station: R16 City Centre Deira

Monday to Thursday & Friday

Saturday & Sunday

A Quick Snapshot: GGICO Metro Station Timings Today

For those who just want a fast answer without scrolling through full tables, here is a simplified snapshot of the daily first and last trains at the GGICO / Al Garhoud stop:

From Expo 2020 towards Centrepoint

From Centrepoint towards Expo 2020 / Life Pharmacy

International Driving Permit UAE 2027: Fees, Requirements And How to Apply

Keep in mind that during peak hours, trains may run slightly more frequently, while off-peak hours can see slightly longer gaps between trains. Timings are also known to shift a little during special events, the holy month of Ramadan, and UAE National Day celebrations, so it is always smart to check the RTA’s live updates around those times.

Extra Tips for Commuters

• Always check live updates through the RTA Dubai app before you travel, especially on holidays or during special events.
• Use a Nol card to skip ticket queues and move through the gates faster.
• Try to avoid peak hours, which fall between 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM on weekdays, if your schedule allows it.
• Downloading the S’hail app (RTA’s official planning app) ahead of time can help you plan your route and estimated arrival time more accurately.

Al Garhoud Metro Station Red Line Route Map

If you need to switch to a train heading toward UAE Exchange, you can change lines at Jebel Ali. Trains on the Red Line generally run toward either Centrepoint or Expo 2020, depending on the direction you are travelling.

The two stations sitting right next to Al Garhoud on the Red Line are Deira City Centre and Airport Terminal 1. If your journey requires switching to the Green Line, you can do so by transferring at either Union Station or BurJuman Station.

Station Facilities at Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station

This station is equipped with a wide range of amenities designed to make every commuter’s journey smoother and more comfortable.

Ticketing and Nol Card Services

Ticket vending machines are available throughout the station for purchasing new Nol cards or topping up an existing one. The Nol card is Dubai’s unified payment system, used across metro trains, buses, water buses, and even some paid parking areas.

Accessibility Features

The station includes elevators, tactile guidance paths for visually impaired passengers, and reserved seating for people with special needs, making it accessible for all types of travellers.

Shelter And Waiting Areas

Sheltered platforms and designated waiting zones allow passengers to wait comfortably regardless of the weather outside, whether it is Dubai’s intense summer heat or an occasional rainy day.

Retail And Commercial Outlets

Several retail and convenience stores operate within the station, offering everyday items for commuters who need a quick purchase before or after their journey.

Food And Beverage Options

Passengers can grab a quick snack or drink at the convenience outlets near the station before boarding their train. However, eating and drinking is not permitted inside the station gates or on board the trains themselves.

Banking And ATM Access

ATM machines and basic banking services are available near the station, making it convenient for commuters who need quick access to cash.

Information And Customer Service Desks

RTA staff are present at information desks to assist passengers with directions, ticketing issues, or general queries, generally available throughout the day.

Cycle Parking

For commuters who prefer combining cycling with metro travel, dedicated cycle parking spaces are available near the station entrance.

Travel Tips for Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a daily commuter, keeping a few simple habits in mind can make your journey through this station much easier:

1. Check your Nol card balance before starting your trip so you are not caught off guard at the gates.
2. Avoid peak travel times where possible mornings from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and evenings from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM tend to be the busiest.
3. Follow the station signage carefully, as it will guide you efficiently to the correct platform, exit, or facility.
4. Stand behind the yellow safety line on the platform and wait patiently until the train has fully stopped.
5. Practice escalator etiquette by standing on the right side and keeping the left side open for those who wish to walk up or down.
6. Skip food and drinks inside the station or train, as this is not permitted under RTA rules.
7. Be mindful with photography casual photos for personal memories are usually fine, but professional photography or filming requires prior permission from the RTA.
8. Plan around Ramadan and holiday schedules, since train timings can shift slightly during these periods.

Transport Connections at Al Garhoud / GGICO Station

This station is well connected to other modes of transport, making it easy to complete the “last mile” of your journey after stepping off the train.

Feeder Bus Service F04

The F04 feeder bus operates as a loop service, linking several nearby residential and commercial areas directly to the Al Garhoud Metro Station. This is especially useful for residents who live a short distance from the station itself.

Other Nearby Bus Routes

Bus routes such as 32C and 77 also pass close to the station, connecting passengers to wider parts of Dubai beyond the immediate neighbourhood.

Taxi Availability

Taxis are readily available right outside the station entrance, offering a quick and flexible alternative for those who prefer door-to-door travel or are carrying heavy luggage, especially useful for airport-bound travellers.

RERA Index Calculator 2026: Check Your Legal Rent Increase

Fare and Ticketing Information

Dubai Metro fares are generally affordable and are calculated based on how many fare zones you travel through. Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station falls under Fare Zone 5.

For a typical one-way trip, fares generally range between AED 5 and AED 10, though this can increase depending on how many zones your journey crosses. Discounted fares are available for senior citizens above 60 years of age and for students with valid identification, while children below a certain age can travel completely free of charge.

All fares are paid using the Nol card, which works seamlessly across metro trains and RTA buses. Nol cards can be purchased or topped up directly at Al Garhoud Metro Station or at any RTA-accredited retail outlet across the city.

Sample Travel Times and Fares from Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station

Here is a handy reference table showing approximate travel time and fare cost from Al Garhoud / GGICO Station to some of Dubai’s most popular destinations:

If you are planning a trip outside Dubai altogether, it is worth checking bus station options in Abu Dhabi for the most suitable routes and schedules for your onward journey.

Nearby Places, Hotels and Attractions

The neighbourhood surrounding Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station is packed with hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making it a convenient base for both business and leisure travellers.

Popular Nearby Attractions

• City Centre Deira:– a large shopping mall with retail, dining, and entertainment options
• Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club:– a scenic destination for golf lovers and waterfront views
• Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium:– host to major international tennis events

Hotels Near the Station

The area offers a wide selection of hotels catering to every type of traveller, from business visitors to families:

• Grand Mercure Dubai Airport Hotel (0.2 miles)
• Millennium Dubai Airport Hotel (0.3 miles)
• Flora Inn Hotel Dubai Airport (0.3 miles)
• ibis Styles Dubai Airport Hotel (0.3 miles)
• Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre (0.3 miles)
• Royal Continental Hotel (0.3 miles)
• Movenpick Grand Al Bustan (0.4 miles)
• Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre (0.4 miles)
• J5 Hotels – Port Saeed (0.4 miles)
• Al Jawhara Gardens Hotel (0.5 miles)
• Jumeirah Creekside Hotel (0.5 miles)
• Aloft City Centre Deira, Dubai (0.5 miles)
• Novotel Deira City Centre (0.5 miles)
• Ibis Deira City Centre (0.5 miles)
• City Seasons Hotel Dubai (0.6 miles)
• Park Hyatt Dubai (0.6 miles)

Restaurants Near the Station

For travellers looking for a bite to eat before or after their journey, the surrounding area has plenty of dining choices, including:

• Da Vinci’s Italian Restaurant
• Oasis Pool & Bar
• The t-Lounge By Dilmah
• Casa Mia
• Zenon Restaurant

Whether you are staying overnight before an early flight or just passing through for a business meeting, this location gives you easy access to food, comfort, and convenience — all within walking distance of the station.

Getting to Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station Using Public Transit

Many visitors rely on public transit apps to plan their route to the station. Services like Moovit make it simple to find step-by-step directions, live schedules, and the best combination of bus and metro routes to reach the station without any guesswork.

Nearby Transit Stops

Some of the closest stops to the station include:

• American Hospital – 01
• American Hospital 1
• American Hospital 2
• Oud Metha Road 2 – 01
• Oud Metha Road 1-1
• Oud Metha Road 2-1
• Oud Metha Metro Station 1
• Oud Metha Metro Station

Bus Routes Serving the Area

Multiple bus lines pass near the station, including routes 28, 66, C18, C4, F18, 6, F70, E16, X23, X25, and 44.

Metro Lines

The station is served by metro lines M2 and MGRN, giving passengers flexible routing options depending on their final destination.

Transit apps like Moovit are especially useful because they let you compare multiple routes, check estimated arrival times in real time, and find the fastest option available at that moment — rather than relying on a fixed timetable alone. These apps are also handy for navigating to other popular destinations across the city, including hospitals, malls, universities, and stadiums.

GGICO / Al Garhoud Metro Station Location Details

Al Garhoud Metro Station, still widely recognised by its earlier name, GGICO Metro Station, offers convenient access to some of Dubai’s busiest and most important areas. It is officially registered as Station R15 and sits within Fare Zone 5 on the Red Line.

An interesting detail about its positioning is that the station sits directly between two other major stops — Deira City Centre and the Emirates Metro Station — making it a well-connected midpoint for commuters travelling across the eastern side of the city.

From this station, passengers can easily reach Dubai International Airport, along with a wide mix of residential communities and commercial hubs that surround the area.

Used Cars in Dubai OneClickDrive 2027: Complete Guide To Buying A Cars in Dubai

Directions to the Station by Public Transit

If you are trying to reach the station using buses, the following routes serve the area directly: 24, 32C, 33, and 443. On the metro side, lines M1 and M2 both connect to this stop.

Nearby Bus Stops

Three of the closest bus stops to the station include:

• Cargo Village
• Airport Terminal 1
• Bustan Rotana Hotel

Nearby Metro Stations

If you are looking for other metro stations close by, consider these two options:

• Al Rigga Metro Station – roughly a 12-minute walk away
• Abu Baker Al Siddique Metro Station – roughly a 16-minute walk away

Additional Bus Lines Connecting to the Station

For longer-distance or cross-emirate travel, several other bus lines also connect through or near this station, including:

• VIEWE700 (Fujairah route)
• C1 (Airport Terminal 3)
• 33 (Qusais Bus Station)
• 32C (Satwa Bus Station)
• 11A (Gold Souq Bus Station)
• 64A (Ras Al Khor Terminus)
• 4 (Rashidiya Metro Bus Parking)
• 43 (Dubai Festival City, Festival Centre)
• 24 (International City, Greece K12 Terminus)

This wide network of bus and metro connections is what makes Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station such a practical transit hub, whether you are commuting daily, catching a flight, or exploring Dubai for the first time.

Why This Station Matters for Commuters and Travellers

Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station is more than just another stop on the Red Line — it acts as a bridge between Dubai’s airport, business districts, hotels, and residential neighbourhoods. Its location near Sheikh Rashid Road and Airport Road means it naturally absorbs a large share of daily airport traffic, business commuters, and hotel guests moving in and out of the area.

For residents living nearby, the station offers a stress-free way to avoid Dubai’s road traffic, especially during rush hours. For tourists, it provides quick and affordable access to major shopping destinations, entertainment venues, and dining options without needing to rent a car or rely solely on taxis.

Its position between two other well-connected stations — Deira City Centre and Airport Terminal 1 also makes it a convenient interchange point for travellers heading in different directions across the city.

Best Time to Visit and Travel Through the Station

Timing your trip well can make a noticeable difference to your overall experience at this station. Early mornings, right after the first trains start running, tend to be relatively calm, making them ideal for travellers with heavy luggage or families with children. Late mornings and early afternoons, roughly between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, are usually the quietest window of the day, since most office commuters have already reached their destinations and the evening rush has not yet begun.

If your schedule is flexible, avoiding the two peak windows — 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM — will save you from crowded platforms and packed train carriages. Weekends tend to see a different pattern altogether, with a slightly later start to services and steady but more relaxed footfall throughout the day, since fewer people are commuting for work.

For travellers heading to catch a flight, it is generally recommended to reach Airport Terminal 1 at least two to three hours before departure. Since Al Garhoud / GGICO Station is just one stop away from the terminal, this gives a comfortable buffer even if you decide to grab a quick meal or do some last-minute shopping near the station before your flight.

Safety And Etiquette Inside the Station

Dubai Metro is known for being clean, organised, and well-monitored, and Al Garhoud / GGICO Station is no exception. To keep this experience consistent for everyone, a few etiquette rules are strictly enforced across the network.

Passengers are expected to remain seated or standing calmly while the train is in motion, and priority seating near the doors is reserved for elderly passengers, pregnant women, and people of determination. Loud conversations, playing music without headphones, and placing feet on seats are generally discouraged and may be flagged by station staff or security cameras.

Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere within the station premises or on board the trains. Similarly, chewing gum, eating, or drinking is not allowed once you pass through the ticket gates. These rules are enforced with fines in some cases, so it is best to finish any snacks or drinks before entering the paid area of the station.

Security personnel and CCTV cameras are present throughout the station for passenger safety, and in case of any emergency, clear signage points toward the nearest exits and help points. Following these simple etiquette guidelines not only keeps you compliant with RTA rules but also ensures a pleasant journey for everyone sharing the platform and carriages with you.

How This Station Compares to Other Red Line Stops

Compared to some of the smaller, purely residential stations along the Red Line, Al Garhoud / GGICO Station stands out because of its mixed-use surroundings. It is not just a residential stop, nor is it purely a business or tourist station — it blends all three, which is part of why it sees such steady traffic throughout the day rather than sharp peaks only during office hours.

Stations like Financial Centre or Business Bay tend to see heavier crowds strictly during office commuting hours, while stations closer to malls, such as Mall of the Emirates, see traffic spike more on evenings and weekends. Al Garhoud / GGICO, on the other hand, maintains a fairly balanced flow because of its proximity to the airport, hotels, and nearby offices, all pulling in passengers at different times of the day.

Secondary Property in Dubai 2026: Best Areas, Prices, Yields and Buying Guide

This balanced traffic pattern is also one of the reasons the station has retained strong ridership numbers even years after its original opening in 2010, and why it continues to be an important interchange point for commuters travelling across different parts of eastern Dubai.

FAQs About Al Garhoud / GGICO Metro Station

Is GGICO Metro Station the same as Al Garhoud Metro Station?

Ans: Yes. The station was originally named GGICO Metro Station after the Gulf General Investment Company. It was officially renamed Al Garhoud Metro Station on 14 April 2025, though many people still use both names interchangeably.

Which metro line does this station belong to?

Ans: It belongs to the Red Line, one of the busiest and longest lines in the Dubai Metro network.

What is the station code and fare zone?

Ans: The station code is R15, and it falls under Fare Zone 5.

What time does the first and last train run?

Ans: On weekdays, the first train generally departs around 5:04 AM to 5:12 AM depending on direction, while the last train runs close to midnight, with slightly extended timings on Fridays.

How do I pay for my metro trip?

Ans: All fares are paid using a Nol card, which can be purchased or topped up directly at the station.

Is the station close to Dubai Airport?

Ans: Yes, it sits just one stop away from Airport Terminal 1, making it a convenient option for travellers heading to or from the airport.

Are there hotels within walking distance?

Ans: Yes, several hotels, including Grand Mercure Dubai Airport Hotel and Millennium Dubai Airport Hotel, are located just a few minutes’ walk from the station.

Conclusion

Al Garhoud Metro Station, still fondly called GGICO Station by many Dubai residents, remains one of the most practical and well-connected stops on the Red Line. From its convenient location near the airport to its wide range of nearby hotels, restaurants, and transport links, it continues to serve thousands of commuters and travellers every single day.

Latest Updates

International Driving Permit UAE 2027: Fees, Requirements And How to Apply

Used Cars in Dubai OneClickDrive 2027: Complete Guide To Buying A Cars in Dubai

Burj Khalifa Dubai Mall Metro Station: Location, Routes And Nearby Attractions

Dubai Metro Timings 2026: Opening Hours, Train Schedules, Fares And Rules

F53 Bus Timings Dubai 2027: Full Schedule, Route, Stops and Fare

About The Author

Sheikha Maryam Al Mansoori

Sheikha Maryam Al Mansoori lives in Sharjah and writes easy, step-by-step guides about life in the UAE. She explains visas, Emirates ID, metro and bus travel, banking, jobs and property in clear, simple words anyone can follow.