How to Reach Burj Khalifa by Bus and Metro

How to Reach Burj Khalifa by Bus and Metro

Visiting Burj Khalifa is on almost everyone’s Dubai wish list. Whether you are a tourist seeing the city for the first time or a resident planning a casual visit, knowing how to reach Burj Khalifa by bus & metro can save you time, money, and stress. Dubai’s public transport system is clean, safe, affordable, and very easy to use—even if you are new to the city.

In this guide, I’ll explain step by step how to reach Burj Khalifa using public transport, what routes to take, how much it costs, and a few local tips that make the journey smoother.


Why Use Public Transport to Reach Burj Khalifa?

Dubai is known for luxury cars and taxis, but public transport is often the smarter option when visiting busy landmarks like Burj Khalifa. Parking around Downtown Dubai can be expensive and crowded, especially during evenings and weekends.

Using Dubai public transport helps you avoid traffic, saves money, and gives you a chance to experience the city like a local.

Some key benefits:

  • Very affordable fares

  • Air-conditioned stations and buses

  • Clear signs in English and Arabic

  • Safe for families, solo travelers, and seniors


How to Reach Burj Khalifa by Bus & Metro (Main Options)

There are two main public transport ways to reach Burj Khalifa:

  1. By Dubai Metro

  2. By RTA Bus

Most people prefer the metro because it is faster, but buses are useful if you are staying in nearby areas.

Reaching Burj Khalifa by Metro

Entrance of Burj Khalifa Dubai Mall Metro Station in Dubai

The metro is the most popular and reliable way to get to Burj Khalifa.

Nearest Metro Station to Burj Khalifa

The nearest metro station to Burj Khalifa is Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station on the Red Line.

This station is directly connected to Dubai Mall through a long, air-conditioned walkway.

Step-by-Step Metro Directions

  1. Take the Dubai Metro Red Line

  2. Get off at Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station

  3. Follow the signs for “Dubai Mall”

  4. Walk through the covered walkway (about 10–15 minutes)

  5. Enter Dubai Mall

  6. Follow signs to Burj Khalifa

The walk is flat, safe, and fully air-conditioned, which is very helpful during summer.

Metro Timings

Knowing Dubai Metro timings is important, especially if you plan to visit Burj Khalifa at night.

Typical timings:

  • Monday to Thursday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

  • Friday: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)

  • Saturday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

  • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Timings may change during public holidays or special events.

Metro Fare Information

Metro fares depend on the number of zones you travel through. With a Nol card Dubai, the cost usually ranges from AED 3 to AED 7.5 for most trips within the city.

Reaching Burj Khalifa by Bus

Dubai RTA bus stopping near Dubai Mall

Buses are another good option, especially if your hotel or home is not near a metro station.

Best Bus Routes to Burj Khalifa

There is no bus that stops directly at Burj Khalifa, but several buses stop near Dubai Mall or Downtown Dubai.

Popular routes include:

  • Bus 27 (from Deira Gold Souk)

  • Bus 29 (from Ghubaiba Bus Station)

These buses stop at Dubai Mall bus stop, which is close to Burj Khalifa.

Walking from Bus Stop

From the Dubai Mall bus stop:

  • Walk towards Dubai Mall entrance

  • Follow indoor signs to Burj Khalifa

  • Walking time: about 10 minutes

This option works well if you are already exploring the city by bus.

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Bus vs Metro: Which Is Better?

Dubai Metro train and RTA bus side by side

Here’s a simple comparison to help you choose:

FeatureMetroBus
Travel TimeFasterSlower
ComfortVery highHigh
Ease for touristsVery easyEasy
CostLowLow
Best forFirst-time visitorsNearby areas

For most visitors, metro is the easiest answer to how to reach Burj Khalifa by bus & metro.

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Important Travel Tips for Visitors

Nol card used for metro and bus travel in Dubai

Use a Nol Card

You must have a Nol card Dubai to use buses and metro. You can buy it at:

  • Metro stations

  • Bus stations

  • Ticket vending machines

Cash is not accepted on public transport.

Dress and Behavior Rules

Dubai public transport follows local rules:

  • Dress modestly (no beachwear)

  • No eating or drinking on metro and buses

  • Keep seats for women, children, and elderly

These rules are clearly displayed and strictly followed.

Best Time to Travel

If you want a relaxed journey:

  • Travel early morning or late evening

  • Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM)

This is especially useful when visiting Downtown Dubai attractions.


Accessibility and Safety

Dubai’s transport system is very friendly for everyone:

  • Elevators and escalators at stations

  • Dedicated seating areas

  • Clear announcements in English

It’s also one of the safest public transport systems in the world. CCTV cameras and staff are present everywhere.


Visiting Burj Khalifa After Arrival

Once inside Dubai Mall:

  • Follow signs to “At The Top Burj Khalifa”

  • Ticket counters are on Lower Ground floor

  • Pre-booking tickets online saves time

Many visitors also combine their visit with the Dubai Fountain show, which happens every evening.

Clean interior of Dubai Metro train

FAQ: How to Reach Burj Khalifa by Bus & Metro

1. Is metro the best way to reach Burj Khalifa?

Yes, metro is the easiest and fastest option for most people.

2. How far is Burj Khalifa from the metro station?

It is about a 10–15 minute indoor walk from Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station.

3. Can I reach Burj Khalifa directly by bus?

No bus stops directly at Burj Khalifa, but several buses stop near Dubai Mall.

4. Do tourists need a special card for transport?

No, tourists can use the same Nol card Dubai as residents.

5. Is public transport safe at night?

Yes, Dubai public transport is very safe, even late at night.

6. Can I use luggage on metro and bus?

Small and medium luggage is allowed, but avoid peak hours if possible.

7. Is metro air-conditioned?

Yes, all metro trains and stations are fully air-conditioned.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to reach Burj Khalifa by bus & metro makes your Dubai visit much easier and more enjoyable. Public transport in Dubai is modern, clean, affordable, and designed with visitors in mind. Whether you choose the metro for speed or the bus for convenience, both options will take you close to the world’s tallest building without any hassle.

Plan your route, grab your Nol card, and enjoy the journey to one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks.

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