Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station (Green Line),Key Featured, History

By Muhammad Ahmad

Dubai Airport Free Zone metro station (also known as Dafza) is a rapid transit metro station on the Dubai Metro Green Line in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The station opened on 9 September 2011 as part of the Green Line

It is located above ground level between Al-Qais and Al-Twar on Al-Ninda Street. It is located half a mile from the entrance of the Dubai Airport Free Zone

The station is close to many bus routes, making it easy for passengers to move around. The station is located near Terminal Two of Dubai International Airport.

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Location and Accessibility

Geographic Location of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

The Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is located along the Red Line of the Dubai Metro, which serves the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), a major business hub adjacent to Dubai International Airport.

Geographic coordinates:

● Latitude: 25.2533° N

● Longitude: 55.3648° E

The station is on Al Quds Street (D91), alternatively known as Damascus Street, in the Al Twar 1 area, off the northern boundary of Terminal 2, Dubai International Airport. The metro station represents a strategic position in the proximity of the zones Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) and other facilities, and it presents itself as an ideal transfer point for residents and travelers alike.

Places of Interest Around

Dubai International Airport (DXB), especially Terminal 2, is just a few minutes drive away.

● The metro station is also easily accessible to residential areas like Al Nahda and Al Qusais.

● The closest landmarks also include Al Bustan Center and Al Twar Park. In response to the demand to reach DAFZA, the Metro Station has easy access to the business zone in DAFZA itself. Office buildings, warehouses, and logistics centers surround the Free Zone.

Access Points to Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

The Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro and primarily services the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA). It is expected to cater conveniently to the working masses coming towards business hubs and residential areas.

Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Access Points to Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station:

  1. Exit/Entrance 1:

○     On the East Side of the station. It provides direct access to the offices and business complexes under the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA).

○    It is advantageous for employees and visitors entering the free zone area.

○    The pedestrian walkways connect to other office buildings and businesses in DAFZA.

  1. Entrance/Exit 2:

○   The western side of the station.

  1. Access to 
  • Al Quds Street (D91) links different parts of the city. Convenient exit to adjacent regions especially the neighborhoods of Al Twar and Al Qusais The next easy access is through the public bus routes in the area to continue your journey by metro from this station.

Connectivity

● The station is connected with easy access to bus routes that run to every residential and business district located around the free zone.

● Safe pedestrian walkways lead into all the buildings and roads surrounding the free zone.

●Offices and business houses inside DAFZA can be easily accessed by walking from this station.

History and Development

Early Arranging of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Part of the design and planning of the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station occurred within a larger master plan for Dubai to develop a major public transport system. The station formed part of the Red Line of the Dubai Metro, which launched commercial services in 2009.

But the section was in particular developed to service the Dubai Airport Free Zone, targeted to support operations of the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) along with some nearby residential and business centers.

Key Features in Early Designing:

● Strategic Location: It is strategically located to target the new business hub of DAFZA, with many multinational companies and logistics companies. It is close to Dubai International Airport, especially Terminal 2; indeed, it will be an easier place for business travelers as well as for the employees working in the Free Zone. Sits on Al Quds Street (D91) with easy access to significant roadways including Al Ittihad Road (E11) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311).

● Free Zone Integration:

● Early plans designed the station to act as a significant interface for public transportation from professionals coming to work in DAFZA. Many international companies operate from the Free Zone, and the station was to be a strategy in reducing reliance on private means of transport, thus increasing the use of public transport to get to work. It also serves as a gate for travelers going to and from Dubai International Airport, particularly to Terminal 2, hence it is also open for business and leisure passengers.

● Design Consideration:

●Like other metro stations on the Red Line, Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station was developed with a modern appearance following that of Dubai but also provided space for adequate amenities to enable smooth mobility, in the form of pedestrian walkways and connections to bus routes in the area.

●The design of the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station considered high volumes of passengers given its free zone status and closeness to the airport and residential area.

Boosting the Economy Support: It also supports the vision of Dubai’s economic boost to establish more trade and logistics in the region in the early visions when the idea of the station came out and opened access through the metro, hence, connecting to DAFZA firms, the government would continue to attract more companies to set their base as it would be seamless connections to the airport and the rest of the city.

Construction of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Construction of the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is part of the large Dubai Metro project, specifically, the Red Line, which is considered to be the heart of the city’s metro system. As described below is the planning process for the construction of this station:

Timeline and Planning:

Early Metro Line Planning: The Dubai Metro project was mooted in the early 2000s as a direct result of the city’s booming pace of development and the requirement for an effective public transport system. Construction on the Red Line of the Metro began in 2005. While the first phase of the Red Line came into service in 2009, the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station was not included in that phase.

Opening Date: Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station was launched on 9 September 2011 in a build-out of the metro network expansion to the airport area and the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA).

Construction Features and Challenges:

  1. Airport Proximity: The biggest challenge posed by constructing the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is that it is near Dubai International Airport. Planning was made with a lot of caution not to interfere with the operations of airport activities, such as the scheduled flights and access roads.
  2. It is constructed near Terminal 2 of the airport. This places it in an ideal position as a transit center for businessmen as well as professionals who work in DAFZA.
  3. Underground and Elevated Construction: Similar to other stations on the Red Line, the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station was constructed as a balanced elevated and at-grade construction. The station’s body is raised on a viaduct across Al Quds Street (D91). The concept of building the station on a viaduct assisted in minimal impact on land and ensured the free flow of traffic below it.
  4. Interface with DAFZA: This station was, hence well planned to ensure the DAFZA buildings receive direct access; therefore, free zone workers and visitors can easily move in and out of the free zone. For this reason, there were pedestrian bridges and walkways brought into the design to direct metro stations to the surrounding office complexes.
  5. Sustainability and Design: The station design embodies the standard style set for Dubai Metro stations, in sleek, modern architecture with an added touch of sustainability. It was built using energy-efficient technologies that made Dubai an even more sustainable location in a wider spectrum.
  6. Coordination with Other Infrastructure: The station was a part of the multi-layer infrastructure updates happening in Dubai mainly where Al Quds Street and the adjacent areas were. The construction team had to accommodate a few other development projects, among them road improvement works and developments found in the Dubai Airport Free Zone.

Opening and Operational Success

The station, which opened in 2011, also serves as an important connection between the airport, DAFZA, and other parts of the city, further enhancing travel options for free zone workers and other people traveling to and from the airport. The station is a crucial node of the Red Line, aligned to the airport and hence effectively providing easy access to other key areas of Dubai, Downtown, Dubai Marina, and further.

The successful handing over of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station helped enhance the reputation of Dubai as an infrastructure city that supports economic activities in DAFZA and offers convenient, efficient transport to its residents and visitors.

Facilities and Features of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

The Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is constructed on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro with an array of features and facilities that allow for easy, comfortable, and accessible travel for its many passengers. Given its role as a key station both to Dubai International Airport and the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), this station would suit diverse passengers-business professionals to travelers.

Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Main Facilities and Features:

Platform and Station Layout: The station is a side platform where passengers would be alighting or boarding from the platforms on both sides. The station will be an elevated station on Al Quds Street (D91) and accessed through escalators, elevators, and stairs. Based on the layout, the following are suggested facilities to be provided at the station, as follows:

Ticketing and NOL Card Facilities: -NOL card top-up machine. Here, passengers can recharge their cards or purchase new ones when traveling through the metro, buses, and other transport units in Dubai. Ticket vending machines and customer service counters. They have tickets for purchase if need be, the problem solved, or for assistance with traveling

●Access: It has been structured to be wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and wide gates for people with disabilities or limited mobility.

○ There is also the availability of audio and visual guidance for passengers who are visually or hearing-impaired, using clear signage and announcements in Arabic and English.

Parking and Transportation Links: Street parking is available for users who come by car, drive to the metro station, and then take the metro. The subway station is planned in consultation with suburban routes, which provide other forms of transportation to places like Al Qusais, Al Twar, and Al Nahda, thereby enhancing choices in traveling rather than relying on the subway.

Pedestrian Bridges and Walkways: Included in the list are pedestrian bridges and walkways connecting the station to other office buildings on the opposite side of the street, for instance, the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) so professionals who work in that area can easily access the station without having to cross the busy roads. Also provided are safe pedestrian crossings for commuters coming from surrounding areas like Al Twar

Retail and Convenience Facilities: Some kiosks stock convenience stores and other small kiosks whereby passengers can buy snacks, drinks, or even other small requirements to pass the waiting time. There are also ATMs and mobile phone recharge stations.

●Security and Safety: -Security arrangements in the train ensure the safety of passengers by using CCTV cameras and RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) security personnel. -Fire safety equipment and emergency exits at fixed times are marked and frequently inspected with the pace of safety standards.

●Climate Control: Just like the rest of the other Dubai Metro stations, the station is fully air-conditioned, thus saving customers from the hot temperatures, especially during Dubai’s hot summer months.

Waiting areas are covered to make sure that passengers are comfortable while waiting for their trains.

●Information and Direction: Electronic displays provide information in real-time, including train arrival and departure times and possible delays along with changes in services as well as other alerts about traveling. While clear signage in both Arabic and English would be sufficient enough to assist passengers in getting to platforms, exits, and the other facilities that are available in the station, proximity to major landmarks means the stop is close to Dubai International Airport (DXB), especially Terminal 2, making the stop convenient for travelers. It caters to the professionals and visitors of the DAFZA, which is a place that accommodates a large number of businesses and multinational companies, therefore providing easier transportation for the workforce involved in free zone work.

Role of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station in the Metro Network

The Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is very important in the Dubai Metro network due to its strategic location and because it serves communities and economic zones. Being on the Red Line, one of the busiest lines in the Dubai Metro system, this station provides smooth connectivity for commuters and contributes to the connectivity and overall economic activities of Dubai.

Main functions of Dubai Airport Free Zone metro station,

  1. For the use of DAFZA: 
  • The primary purpose of this station is to facilitate smooth transportation in and out of the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), one of the fastest-growing commercial centers in Dubai.
  • DAFZA houses over 1,600 firms operating in various sectors, including aviation, IT, logistics, and finance. This renders the station very fundamental for professionals who operate within this region. The station provides a readily available source of commuting for employees, clients, and visitors of the free zone, thereby reducing reliance on private vehicles.
  1.  Proximity to Dubai International Airport (DXB): 
  •  Its proximity to Dubai International Airport (DXB), in particular Terminal 2, makes this station a part of the transport network for passengers arriving and departing from the airport.
  •  Given that it does not provide direct access to all terminals, given that this station is one of the possible routes for the personnel of the airport, as well as for businessmen or tourists, it enhances the connectivity of the airport as a whole to other public transports in Dubai.
  1. Connecting Residential Areas:  
  • The station serves the residential suburbs surrounding it like Al Twar, Al Qusais, and Al Nahda. These are highly populated regions, and the station would become a good transit point into other parts of Dubai. Dilation of congestion on the roads As it opens up these communities through the metro network, the station discourages the use of public roads.
  1. Business Hubs
  • The Red Line, which hosts Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station, links many of the city’s most significant business hubs including Business Bay, DIFC, and Dubai Marina.
  •  The station is important in linking the businesses at DAFZA with these other business centers that will allow for easy movement of professionals.
  1. Reducing Traffic and Supporting Sustainability: 
  • This is because the station offers an available public transport mode to workers working in DAFZA and residents living in surrounding areas, thereby decongesting main roads such as Al Quds Street (D91) and Al Ittihad Road (E11).
  • The station will support the vision of Dubai to seek sustainability by promoting public transport, reducing the carbon footprint of the city, and enhancing the overall efficiency of the transportation system.
  1. Promoting Economic Growth:
  • One of Dubai’s largest free zones, the free zone hosts international businesses that wish to set up a presence in DAFZA. Accessibility through the metro to DAFZA makes it more accessible for businesses that need proximity to the airport and adequate public transport infrastructure.
  • By promoting access to DAFZA, the station will serve to further Dubai’s strategic objectives of economic diversification and growth in sectors such as logistics, aviation, and IT.
  1.  Access to the Balance of the Red Line
  • For instance, it is under the Red Line, providing citizens with easy passage to other parts of Dubai’s very extensive metro network with other key stations including Union, BurJuman, and Mall of the Emirates. By connecting to Expo 2020 and Jebel Ali from one side and Rashidiya and Al Rigga from the other, it forms part of a very important route for both locals and visitors crossing the city.
Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Community Impact of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is among the many whose impact on the community is large, especially as far as impacting local economies, accessibility, changes within the urban landscape, and quality of life around it. Here’s a rundown of how this has affected the community:

Improved Accessibility:

  • Commuter Convenience: The station provides easy access to the Dubai Airport Free Zone, an important nodal point for thousands of employees and visitors. This facility encourages more commuters to use public transport and reduces the reliance on private vehicles.
  • Public Transport Connectivity: Due to its access to the more extensive Dubai Metro system, the station makes it easier not only to reach the free zone but also other destinations in Dubai, including residential areas, business centers, and entertainment zones.

Economic Development

  • Business Attraction: The location of the station next to DAFZA makes it an attraction for businesses who wish to establish operations in Dubai. More developed transport links enable the attraction of talent to the business and facilitate easy movement and commuting for the employees and clients.
  • Job Generation: Increased activity in the area tends to generate jobs, directly within the confines of DAFZA, and indirectly in the supporting industries like hospitality, retail, and transportation.

Reduced Traffic Congestion:

  • Fewer Carriageways: The railway station serves as an alternative mode of transport, and therefore, there are fewer cars on the roads. This way, there are reduced blockages along major roads like Al Quds Street and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
  • Environmental Benefits: Reduced traffic reduces the time that people spend on the roads, thereby reducing vehicular emissions, thus increasing the quality of air in the community, and contributing to the sustainability efforts of Dubai.

Better Quality of Life:

  • Convenience for Locals: This station increases convenience for residents of Al Twar and Al Qusais in traveling to work or some other activity.
  • Promoting Public Transport: This station promotes a shift to the comparatively greener public transit mode and promotes the consumption pattern of residents for a more walking and community-oriented lifestyle.

Community Development :

  • Urban Planning and Development: It has provided opportunities for urban development with the aid of commercial and residential projects within its peripheries. Foot traffic can inspire new retail and services, thereby enhancing the quality of local service amenities.
  • Public Spaces and Amenities: There will be improvements in public spaces, parks, and recreational facilities, by which the residents’ lifestyles may be enhanced.

Cultural and Social Interaction:

  • Diverse Population: The station serves a diverse population of commuters, including residents, expatriates, and international travelers who will enhance cultural exchange and social interaction within the community.
  • Accessibility: to other parts of the city can motivate the residents and visitors to engage in cultural events, exhibitions, and recreational activities for a better community life.

Safety and Security:

  • Increased Safety: A metro station can increase safety in the locality by dispersing pedestrian movement and by human security personnel and cameras.
  • Preparedness for Emergency: The safety features that are incorporated into a well-designed metro infrastructure can work towards promoting the readiness of the surrounding area in an emergency.

Future Developments of Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

The Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is a component of the Dubai Metro network, and as Dubai further expands and develops, there will probably be a range of future developments and improvements that will impact the station and its surroundings. Some of the expected developments are as follows:

1. Station Improvement and Expansion:

  • Increased Capacity: To address the rising numbers of passengers, most evidently during the expansion of Dubai International Airport and DAFZA, the station facilities may be expanded in terms of facility upgrading with an increase in ticket vending machines, customer service counters, and waiting areas. Extensions or additions to the platforms to enable the service of extended trains or increase the frequency of a train during peak hours to ensure efficient service for commuters.

2. Connectedness Enhanced:

  •  Accessibility to Terminal 2 Based on the discussion, it would be easier for passengers and workers to move into that area by ensuring that accessing Terminal 2 of Dubai International Airport is easier.
  •  Integration with New Tram or Bus Route With the rising public transport in Dubai, the station should be connected with new tram lines and bus routes for easy connectivity among workers and commuters.

3. Commercial Development

  • Retail spaces: Introduce retail and dining establishments along with their adjacencies within and outside the station to serve the people commuting through it as well as the businesses present in the vicinity so that it could eventually become an active shopping and dining destination. Business Hubs Development of office space or coworking spaces close to the station to attract businesses that benefit from public transport accessibility.

4. Sustainability Initiatives

  • Green Infrastructure: New development can be planned to optimize the station’s sustainability, incorporating more solar panels, energy-efficient systems, and green building practices in new construction or upgrades.
  • Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities: Improving pedestrian corridors and bicycle lanes will promote environmentally conscious commuting approaches, so it will be easier for residents to reach the station.

5. Technological Innovations:

  • Smart Station Features: smart technology for timetables on trains, electronic boards on the passengers’ information displays, and mobile applications for easier navigation and ticketing. Contactless Payment Systems: High-tech payment systems that will simplify the ticket purchase process, hence reducing waiting times and saving passengers time and hassle.

6. Public Engagement and Community Development:

  • Community Spaces: Construct public spaces or parks around the station to improve community interaction in addition to recreational spaces for residents Cultural Programs: Events, exhibitions, or art installations that can be held either within or near the station to promote a sense of community and participation in cultural activities.

6. Increased Safety Measures

  • Advanced Security Systems: Advanced safety and security measures that will include facial recognition and highly heightened security for both commuters and staff. Emergency Preparedness: Upgrades of emergency response systems and infrastructures regularly in place so one can always be assured of safety in case an unforeseen incident occurs.

Accommodation & Hotels Near Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Major Buildings Near  Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Shopping Centres near Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Travel Information from Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station exit

There are two major exits of the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station, facing the various buildings around the area including residential houses, which surround the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA). Details of each are elaborated below.

Exit Information:

  1. Exit 1 Position: East side of the station.
  • Access: This exit directly opens into the Dubai Airport Free Zone which thereby allows easy access to several offices, business complexes, and other facilities based in DAFZA.
  •  Nearby Facilities: It is very convenient for employees working here in the free zone and those who wish to use businesses based here. Pedestrian walkways are also provided for safe access to nearby buildings.
  1. Exit 2 : Location: West side of the station
  • Access: This exit leads onto Al Quds Street (D91), which has access to the neighborhood residential areas of Al Qusais and Al Twar. It connects passengers to local bus routes and other readily accessible and convenient entries to local establishments like shopping malls, restaurants, and more. This exit is helpful for workers coming from the neighborhood going to work or way to some other destination. Also Read

Additional Amenities:

  • The two are furnished with elevators and escalators so that the exit is friendly and accommodates individuals with disabilities or who need to carry luggage along.
  • Pedestrian Safety: It provides a safe access path by the well-managed pedestrian crossings and walkways towards the neighborhood surroundings.

Travel Time from Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

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Conclusion

The Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station is an upgrade in connectivity from the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), the Dubai International Airport, and most residential areas surrounding it. Strategically located, it enables easy access for thousands of commuters-business professionals and travelers alike-to promote the effective use of public transport and cut down on private vehicles.

Being an economic hub, the station promotes job schemes and induces business houses to DAFZA, thereby supporting Dubai’s vision of diversifying its economy, while trade and logistics are enhanced. Additionally, the facilities and features of this passenger comfort and accessibility take priority, with a sense of community while encouraging sustainable transportation options.

Greater capacity, increased connectivity, and sustainability initiatives will add value to the station as a transportation node. Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station enhances the daily lives of residents and workers and plays a wonderful role in shaping the urban landscape and economic development of Dubai.

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