Equiti Metro Station is a high-speed transfer hub located on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Serving the Al Quoz area and its surrounding neighborhoods, the station is strategically named after the Equity Group.
Initially opened as First Gulf Bank Metro Station on 15 October 2010, it was later renamed multiple times: first to Abu Dhabi Bank on 21 September 2017, then to Umm al-Sheaf on 24 November 2020, and finally to Akoti Metro Station on 18 April 2022. The station was closed on 16 April 2024 due to flooding. Nearby attractions include Gold and Diamond Parks, and the station is conveniently located near several bus stops.
Location and Accessibility
Geographic Location
Equiti Metro Station is situated on the Sheikh Zayed Road Highway, right in the heart of the Al Quoz district in Dubai. Located between the Mashreq and Al Khail stations, the station is an integral part of the Dubai Metro Red Line. It serves as a crucial access point for commuters traveling to commercial, industrial, and residential zones within Al Quoz. It is easily accessible from various locations along Sheikh Zayed Road and is also close to popular areas such as Al Barsha and Dubai Internet City.
Access Points
The station offers multiple entry points for smooth access:
- Main Entry (Sheikh Zayed Road Side): This direct entry point is perfect for travelers coming along Sheikh Zayed Road or from the surrounding neighborhoods. Commuters from residential or business areas on either side of the road can enter through an exit footbridge.
- Al Quoz Area Access: A separate exit route connects the station to the Al Quoz Industrial Area, serving workers and visitors in this busy industrial zone.
- Accessibility Features: The station is fully equipped with ramps and elevators, ensuring it is accessible to everyone, including those with mobility challenges.
History and Development
Early Plans and Construction
Originally called “First Abu Dhabi Bank Metro Station,” Equiti Metro Station was part of Dubai’s larger strategy to create an integrated public transportation system along Sheikh Zayed Road. The station was designed to provide easy access to nearby residential areas like Al Barsha and commercial zones like Al Quoz. Construction, carried out by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), was aimed at easing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable transportation in Dubai.
Key construction features included:
- Elevated Structure: Due to the need to minimize disruption to the traffic on Sheikh Zayed Road, the station was designed as an elevated structure with deep foundations.
- Connection to Surrounding Infrastructure: Footbridges were integrated into the design to link the station with surrounding areas, offering safe pedestrian access.
- Technological Advancements: The station implemented automated ticketing systems, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the need for on-site staff.
- Environmental Considerations: Sustainable elements, such as energy-efficient lighting and cooling systems, were incorporated to minimize environmental impact.
Facilities and Features
Equiti Metro Station offers a range of modern facilities to cater to commuters’ needs:
- Ticketing and Customer Service: Automated ticketing machines and Nol card recharge stations allow for cashless transactions. A customer service desk is also available for assistance.
- Platform and Waiting Areas: Air-conditioned platforms with ample seating and digital displays provide real-time train information.
- Vending Machines and ATMs: The station includes vending machines for snacks and drinks, as well as ATMs for easy cash access.
- Accessibility: The station features ramps, elevators, and wide gates to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments.
- Safety and Security: The station is equipped with 24/7 CCTV surveillance and on-site security personnel. Emergency contacts and first-aid services are also available.
- Pedestrian and Bus Connectivity: A pedestrian footbridge connects both sides of Sheikh Zayed Road, and feeder buses provide easy access to nearby neighborhoods.
- Environmental Control: The station utilizes energy-efficient lighting and cooling systems to maintain comfort while supporting sustainability.
Role of Equiti Metro Station in the Metro Network
Equiti Metro Station plays a pivotal role in the Red Line of the Dubai Metro, facilitating travel between residential, commercial, and industrial areas, such as Al Quoz and Dubai Internet City. It supports Dubai’s goals of reducing road congestion and promoting sustainability.
- Reducing Road Congestion: Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, the station provides a reliable alternative to road travel, helping to ease traffic on one of Dubai’s busiest highways.
- Promoting Access to Employment Hubs: The station is vital for workers in the Al Quoz industrial area, offering easy access to workplaces and reducing the need for long commutes.
- Encouraging Sustainability: By promoting the use of public transportation, the station helps reduce carbon emissions, contributing to Dubai’s environmental goals.
- Supporting Tourism: Equiti Metro Station also provides convenient access to major attractions along Sheikh Zayed Road, improving the experience for visitors to Dubai.
Community Impact
Equiti Metro Station has had a positive impact on the surrounding community in several key ways:
- Better Worker Mobility: The station provides easy access for thousands of workers in the Al Quoz industrial area, reducing their reliance on long and expensive road commutes.
- Easier Access for Residents: Its proximity to the metro network makes it easier for residents to reach other parts of Dubai, including the central business district and leisure destinations, improving their quality of life.
- Support for Local Businesses: The station has boosted foot traffic to nearby businesses, contributing to the economic vitality of the area.
- Traffic and Environmental Benefits: The use of public transit helps reduce vehicle congestion and air pollution along Sheikh Zayed Road, aligning with Dubai’s sustainability initiatives.
- Safety and Accessibility Improvements: The station’s design includes features that improve safety and ease of movement for all, particularly for people with disabilities and the elderly.
- Increased Property Values: The station’s proximity has led to higher property values in the surrounding areas, as public transportation access is a key factor for residents and businesses alike.
Future Developments of Equiti Metro Station
Equiti Metro Station is poised for several key developments that will enhance its role in Dubai’s transit network. These planned improvements focus on connectivity, efficiency, and integration, ensuring the station plays a vital part in the city’s future public transportation landscape. Some of the expected developments include:
- Enhanced Connectivity and Integration: The station will undergo upgrades to improve multimodal connectivity. This includes expanding feeder bus routes, better integration with cycling paths, and making pedestrian infrastructure more accessible. These changes will improve last-mile connectivity, making it easier for commuters to reach their destinations.
- Smart Technology Upgrades: Technological advancements will be introduced, such as contactless payment systems, real-time transportation updates, and AI-driven management of passenger flows. These upgrades will reduce waiting times and increase the efficiency of daily commutes, making travel more convenient for passengers.
- Sustainability Initiatives: In line with Dubai’s focus on sustainability, Equiti Metro Station will adopt energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and advanced waste management systems. These initiatives will reduce the station’s carbon footprint and support the city’s green goals.
- Increased Capacity and Service Frequency: To accommodate growing demand, the frequency of Red Line trains will likely be increased. This will reduce wait times during peak hours and help manage the flow of passengers, ensuring that Equiti Metro Station continues to serve a rising number of commuters.
- Retail and Commercial Development: The station is expected to integrate retail outlets and service centers, offering commuters convenient services. These could range from cafés and convenience stores to co-working spaces, transforming Equiti into a community-focused transit hub.
- Accessibility Improvements: Future upgrades will enhance accessibility with longer ramps, tactile paths, and other features to support persons with disabilities, seniors, and families with young children. These improvements will ensure that all commuters can easily navigate the station.
- Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Equiti Metro Station is likely to become a focal point for new residential and commercial developments. This type of development will attract more businesses and residents to the area, further solidifying the station’s importance as a central part of Dubai’s infrastructure.
Accommodation & Hotels Near Equiti Metro Station
Here are some hotels located near Equiti Metro Station:
| Hotels | Address | Exit |
| Sheraton Mall of The Emirates | 771, Sheikh Zayed Road | 2 |
| Metropolitan | 736, Sheikh Zayed Road | 2 |
| Citymax | 34, Al Seedaf 1 Street | 2 |
| Studio M Al Barsha | 12, 5 Street, Al Barsha 1 | 2 |
| Kempinski | 797, Sheikh Zayed Road | 2 |
| Millennium Al Barsha | 9, 22 Street, Al Barsha 1 | 2 |
| Rose Plaza | 7, 11 Street, Al Barsha 1 | 2 |
| Ivory Grand | 6, 8 Street, Al Barsha 1 | 2 |
| Citymax | 12, 11 Street, Al Barsha 1 | 2 |
| Elite Byblos | 29, Al Barsha 2 Street | 2 |
Major Buildings Near Equiti Metro Station
Several notable buildings are located near Equiti Metro Station:
| Buildings | Address | Exit |
| Hala Building Ajman | 10/1, Al Amal Street | 2 |
| Butterfly Building | 8, Al Qashiri Street, Maysaloon | 2 |
| Al Qayada | 158, Al Ittihad Road | 2 |
| Sakeena Building | 13, 8A Street | 2 |
| Royal JVC Building | 9, 26 Street | 2 |
| Abdul Aziz Al Majid Building | 62, 40 Street | 2 |
| Metro Station Main Depot | 60, Airport Road | 2 |
| Main Sewage Pumping Station | 6, 4 Street | 2 |
| Deira Main Emirates Post | 33585 97234, Hor Al Anz East, Deira | 2 |
Shopping Centres Near Equiti Metro Station
Here are some shopping centers located near Equiti Metro Station:
| Shops | Address | Exit |
| Abu Hail | 257-261, Bu Hail Street | 2 |
| Al Mamzar | 201, 28 Street | 2 |
| Century Mall | 85, Al Wuheida Road | 2 |
| Gift Luxe | Al Kamali Building, 23/1, 24 Street | 2 |
| LuLu | 10, Amman Street | 2 |
| Sahara | 19, Al Nahda Street | 2 |
| Deira City Centre | 1B, 30 Street | 2 |
| Mine Mine Mia | Al Yasmeen Building, 56, 42 Street | 2 |
| Al Ghurair Centre | 3, Al Rigga Road | 2 |
| Reef Mall | 114, Salah Al Din Road | 2 |
These developments, accommodations, buildings, and shopping centers make the area around Equiti Metro Station a dynamic hub of activity, catering to a diverse range of needs for commuters, residents, and visitors.
Travel Information from Equiti Metro Station
Here are the travel details from Equiti Metro Station to various destinations:
| From | Destination | Metro Line | Travel Time (Approx.) | Fare (Approx.) |
| Equiti Metro Station | Jebel Ali | Red Line | 10 minutes | AED 3 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Ibn Battuta Mall | Red Line | 12 minutes | AED 3 |
| Equiti Metro Station | DMCC (JLT) | Red Line | 15 minutes | AED 5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Nakheel Harbour & Tower | Red Line | 17 minutes | AED 5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Dubai Marina | Red Line | 18 minutes | AED 5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Jumeirah Lakes Towers | Red Line | 19 minutes | AED 5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Mall of the Emirates | Red Line | 25 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Dubai Internet City | Red Line | 27 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall | Red Line | 35 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Business Bay | Red Line | 37 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) | Red Line | 40 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Union Square | Red Line | 45 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | BurJuman | Red Line | 48 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Al Rigga | Red Line | 50 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Dubai International Airport (Terminal 1) | Red Line | 55 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Expo 2020 (District 2020) | Red Line | 8 minutes | AED 3 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Al Ghubaiba | Red Line | 60 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Dubai Healthcare City | Red Line | 65 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Deira City Centre | Red Line | 52 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Al Ras | Red Line | 63 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Al Fahidi | Red Line | 64 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Stadium | Red Line | 68 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Rashidiya | Red Line | 70 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Al Nahda | Red Line | 72 minutes | AED 7.5 |
| Equiti Metro Station | Etisalat | Red Line | 75 minutes | AED 7.5 |
Equiti Metro Station Exits
Equiti Metro Station has several exits that ensure easy accessibility for passengers:
- Sheikh Zayed Road Exit: This main exit leads directly onto Sheikh Zayed Road, providing quick access to highways and nearby commercial areas. It’s commonly used by commuters heading to various offices, shops, and neighborhoods.
- Exit Towards Al Quoz: This exit is located near the Al Quoz industrial area, offering convenient access for workers and visitors traveling to the industrial and commercial zones of one of Dubai’s major business districts.
- Footbridge Exit Across Sheikh Zayed Road: A pedestrian footbridge connects both sides of Sheikh Zayed Road, allowing commuters to cross safely to residential areas, offices, and bus stops without the need to navigate heavy traffic.
- Accessibility-Focused Exits: These exits include ramps and elevators designed for mobility-impaired passengers, including the elderly, those with physical disabilities, and families with strollers. They ensure easy access to major paths away from the station.
Travel Hours at Equiti Metro Station
The operating hours of Equiti Metro Station are as follows:
| Day | Time |
| Monday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Tuesday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Wednesday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Thursday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Friday | 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (Next day) |
| Saturday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
FAQs
Conclusion
Equiti Metro Station plays a key role in enhancing Dubai’s transportation network by connecting business districts, residential areas, and industrial zones along the Sheikh Zayed Road corridor. This connectivity improves accessibility, reduces traffic congestion, and contributes to a higher quality of life for residents and local businesses.
With modern facilities, accessibility features, and ongoing developments, Equiti Metro Station is committed to providing a safe, efficient, and convenient travel experience. As Dubai continues to grow, the station will remain a critical component of the city’s public transit system, supporting broader urban development goals and sustainability initiatives.
