Planning your visit to Dubai Safari Park using the city’s efficient metro system is a smart choice for avoiding traffic and parking. While the park itself is a major attraction, it does not have a metro station bearing its name directly at its gates. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to use the Dubai Metro to get as close as possible to the park and complete your journey with other public transport options.
This guide offers a detailed, factual roadmap for your trip. You will learn the exact metro stations to use, the connecting buses required, and practical tips for a smooth journey. The information is based on current routes and schedules to ensure your travel to Dubai Safari Park is straightforward and efficient.
Understanding the Dubai Metro and Your Destination
Dubai Safari Park is located in the Al Warqa’a 5 area, a significant distance from the nearest metro line. The park spans over 119 hectares and is home to nearly 3,000 animals. Its location was chosen for its size and landscape, not its proximity to the metro, which is why a direct connection does not exist.
The Dubai Metro Red Line is the primary route you will use for this journey. It runs from Centrepoint (formerly Rashidiya) to UAE Exchange (formerly Jebel Ali) and serves many key areas of the city. Your goal is to reach a station on this line that offers a bus transfer to the park’s vicinity.
Planning your metro journey ahead of time is recommended. You can use the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website or app to check for any scheduled maintenance on the metro or bus routes that might affect your travel plans on the day of your visit.
- Dubai Safari Park is in Al Warqa’a 5 and has no direct metro station.
- The Dubai Metro Red Line is the essential backbone of your journey to the general area.
- Always verify public transport schedules on the official RTA platforms before you travel.
The Nearest Metro Stations to Dubai Safari Park
Two metro stations on the Red Line serve as the main gateways for a trip to Dubai Safari Park. These stations are strategically located to connect with bus routes that will take you the final part of the journey. The choice between them may depend on your starting point in the city.
Etisalat Metro Station is the first terminal on the Green Line. However, it is a crucial interchange point for reaching the park. From here, you can access a direct bus link. This station is in the Al Qusais area and includes a large bus station adjacent to it, making transfers very convenient.
Centerpoint Metro Station, the northern terminus of the Red Line, is another viable option. While it requires a slightly longer bus ride, it can be more convenient for those traveling from areas along the upper section of the Red Line. Both stations are equipped with facilities like elevators, air-conditioned waiting areas, and Nol card top-up machines.
- Etisalat Metro Station on the Green Line offers a direct bus connection to the park.
- Centerpoint Metro Station on the Red Line is another major hub for transferring to a park-bound bus.
- Both stations have full facilities for a comfortable transfer between metro and bus services.
Step-by-Step Guide from Etisalat Metro Station
If you are using the Green Line or connecting via the Red Line, Etisalat Metro Station is often the most efficient starting point for the final leg of your trip. After exiting the metro platform, follow the signs to the Etisalat Bus Station, which is directly connected to the metro station.
At the bus station, you need to find Bus Route 366. This bus route has a scheduled stop specifically for Dubai Safari Park. The bus journey from Etisalat Metro Station to the park takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions throughout the day.
You must use a pre-paid Nol card to pay for your bus fare. The same card you used for the metro will work on the bus, providing a seamless transfer. Ensure your card has enough credit for the bus journey, which will be deducted upon tapping the card on the reader at the bus door.
- From the metro, transfer to the adjacent Etisalat Bus Station.
- Locate and board Bus Route 366, which goes directly to Dubai Safari Park.
- Use your Nol card to pay for the bus fare to complete your seamless public transport journey.
Step-by-Step Guide from Centerpoint Metro Station
For travelers on the Red Line, Centerpoint Metro Station is a highly accessible transfer point. As the terminus station, all trains on the Red Line stop here. After arriving, disembark and proceed to the bus station located within the Centerpoint complex.
From the Centerpoint Bus Station, you need to find Bus Route 366. This is the same bus route that services the park from Etisalat, but it originates from Centerpoint. The bus ride from Centerpoint to Dubai Safari Park is longer, typically taking around 45 to 55 minutes due to the greater distance.
The bus will make several stops along its route before reaching the park. It is advisable to keep an eye on the route map inside the bus or use a maps application on your phone to track your progress. Listen for the announcement or watch for the visual sign indicating the Dubai Safari Park stop.
- Exit the Red Line at Centerpoint Metro Station and proceed to its integrated bus station.
- Board Bus Route 366, which has a scheduled stop at the entrance to Dubai Safari Park.
- The journey from Centerpoint involves a longer bus ride, so plan for extra travel time.
Completing Your Journey: From Bus Stop to Park Entrance
The Bus Route 366 will drop you off at a designated stop very close to the main entrance of Dubai Safari Park. The stop is located on the street adjacent to the park’s entrance plaza. You will see clear signage directing you from the bus stop to the park’s ticket counters and gates.
After exiting the bus, a short walk of two to three minutes is required to reach the main entrance. The path is paved and accessible. This is a good time to have your park tickets ready, especially if you purchased them online in advance, to expedite your entry into the facility.
Remember the location of the bus stop for your return journey. Later, when you are ready to leave the park, you will need to return to this same bus stop on the opposite side of the street to catch Bus Route 366 back to either Etisalat or Centerpoint metro stations.
- The bus drops you off at a dedicated stop within a short walking distance of the park entrance.
- A brief walk on a paved path is required to reach the ticket counters and main gates.
- Note the location of the bus stop for your return trip to the metro station later in the day.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Metro and Bus Journey
Your Nol card is your key to using all of Dubai’s public transport. You must have a valid Nol card with sufficient balance to travel on both the metro and the bus. The card can be purchased and topped up at any metro station. Silver Nol cards are the standard choice for tourists and occasional riders.
Consider the timing of your journey. Weekends (Friday and Saturday) are the busiest days at the park. Traveling on a weekday might mean less crowded public transport and a shorter queue at the park entrance. Also, aim to start your journey early to avoid the peak morning rush hour on the metro.
While on your journey, stay hydrated and dress comfortably for the walk from the bus stop to the park. The Dubai heat can be intense, especially during the middle of the day. There are shops at both metro stations where you can purchase water and snacks before boarding the bus.
- Secure a Nol card with enough credit for your entire round trip on metro and bus.
- Traveling on a weekday can help you avoid the largest crowds on transport and at the park.
- Carry water with you and wear comfortable shoes for the short walk from the bus stop.
Alternative Transportation Options from the Metro
If you prefer a more direct route from the metro station, you have other options besides the public bus. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are widely available throughout Dubai. You can book a car from either Etisalat or Centerpoint metro stations directly to the park entrance.
Another option is to use a taxi. Dubai has official taxis that are metered and can be found at designated taxi ranks at all major metro stations. The fare from either metro station to the park will be higher than the bus but will offer a faster and more private journey.
You can also consider using the RTA’s own smart taxi app, called ‘Smart Taxi’, to book an official Dubai taxi. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than other ride-hailing services. The choice between bus, ride-hail, or taxi depends on your budget, group size, and preference for convenience.
- Ride-hailing apps like Uber provide a direct and comfortable option from the metro to the park.
- Official metered taxis are available at ranks near all major metro stations.
- Your choice of final transport should balance cost, convenience, and travel time for your group.
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