RTA extends Dubai Metro timings for Global Encounters Festival: Rules, timing, full travel details here

TL;DR

• Dubai Metro will run until 1am on Sunday, July 20 (instead of midnight).
• The extended service supports the Global Encounters Festival crowd at Dubai World Trade Centre.
• RTA urges metro use to avoid traffic and parking issues in central Dubai.

If you're planning to attend the Global Encounters Festival this weekend, there’s a simple way to skip traffic: take the metro. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is giving commuters extra time on Sunday, July 20, by keeping the metro open an hour later than usual, until 1am on Monday.

The change is temporary and meant to ease movement around the Dubai World Trade Centre, where thousands of people are expected for the festival’s opening night. With limited parking and high traffic likely, RTA is encouraging everyone, residents and visitors alike, to use public transport.

The announcement was shared across RTA’s social channels and is part of a broader effort to keep the city moving smoothly during major events.

What’s happening and why
A one-time schedule change

Date: Sunday, July 20

New closing time: 1am (instead of midnight)

Applies to: All Dubai Metro lines

This update is just for one night and is directly tied to the expected crowd at the Global Encounters Festival launch event.

Why it matters

• Thousands are expected at Dubai World Trade Centre on opening day.
• Parking will be tight, and traffic delays are likely.
• Taking the Dubai Metro is the fastest, most reliable way to get in and out of the area.

What is the Global Encounters Festival?
The Global Encounters Festival is a week-long gathering that brings together members of the Ismaili Muslim community from across the world. More than just an event, it serves as a vibrant celebration of culture, art, sports, and community connection. Taking place from July 20 to July 27, the festival will be held at the Sheikh Saeed and Sheikh Rashid Halls within the Dubai World Trade Centre.

What to expect:

• Live music performances
• Cultural showcases and art exhibitions
• Sports competitions for youth and adults
• A focus on creativity, service, and global unity

What’s next for Dubai Metro?
Dubai is expanding its metro network with the Blue Line, which is currently under construction. If you've noticed traffic diversions in areas like Mirdif, this is why.

Once complete, the new line will connect more residential areas and reduce the pressure on existing routes. It’s all part of RTA’s long-term plan to make public transport more accessible for everyone.

FAQs

• 1. Will the Dubai Metro always run until 1am on Sundays now?

No, this is a temporary schedule for Sunday, July 20 only.

• 2. Do I need to check specific metro lines for the update?

No need, the extended hours apply to all lines in the Dubai Metro system.

• 3. Where exactly is the festival taking place?

At the Dubai World Trade Centre, specifically in the Sheikh Saeed and Sheikh Rashid Halls.