Equiti Metro Station

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

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

Equiti Metro Station

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

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:

HotelsAddressExit
Sheraton Mall of The Emirates771, Sheikh Zayed Road2
Metropolitan736, Sheikh Zayed Road2
Citymax34, Al Seedaf 1 Street2
Studio M Al Barsha12, 5 Street, Al Barsha 12
Kempinski797, Sheikh Zayed Road2
Millennium Al Barsha9, 22 Street, Al Barsha 12
Rose Plaza7, 11 Street, Al Barsha 12
Ivory Grand6, 8 Street, Al Barsha 12
Citymax12, 11 Street, Al Barsha 12
Elite Byblos29, Al Barsha 2 Street2

Major Buildings Near Equiti Metro Station

Several notable buildings are located near Equiti Metro Station:

BuildingsAddressExit
Hala Building Ajman10/1, Al Amal Street2
Butterfly Building8, Al Qashiri Street, Maysaloon2
Al Qayada158, Al Ittihad Road2
Sakeena Building13, 8A Street2
Royal JVC Building9, 26 Street2
Abdul Aziz Al Majid Building62, 40 Street2
Metro Station Main Depot60, Airport Road2
Main Sewage Pumping Station6, 4 Street2
Deira Main Emirates Post33585 97234, Hor Al Anz East, Deira2

Shopping Centres Near Equiti Metro Station

Here are some shopping centers located near Equiti Metro Station:

ShopsAddressExit
Abu Hail257-261, Bu Hail Street2
Al Mamzar201, 28 Street2
Century Mall85, Al Wuheida Road2
Gift LuxeAl Kamali Building, 23/1, 24 Street2
LuLu10, Amman Street2
Sahara19, Al Nahda Street2
Deira City Centre1B, 30 Street2
Mine Mine MiaAl Yasmeen Building, 56, 42 Street2
Al Ghurair Centre3, Al Rigga Road2
Reef Mall114, Salah Al Din Road2

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:

FromDestinationMetro LineTravel Time (Approx.)Fare (Approx.)
Equiti Metro StationJebel AliRed Line10 minutesAED 3
Equiti Metro StationIbn Battuta MallRed Line12 minutesAED 3
Equiti Metro StationDMCC (JLT)Red Line15 minutesAED 5
Equiti Metro StationNakheel Harbour & TowerRed Line17 minutesAED 5
Equiti Metro StationDubai MarinaRed Line18 minutesAED 5
Equiti Metro StationJumeirah Lakes TowersRed Line19 minutesAED 5
Equiti Metro StationMall of the EmiratesRed Line25 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationDubai Internet CityRed Line27 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationBurj Khalifa/Dubai MallRed Line35 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationBusiness BayRed Line37 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationDubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)Red Line40 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationUnion SquareRed Line45 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationBurJumanRed Line48 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationAl RiggaRed Line50 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationDubai International Airport (Terminal 1)Red Line55 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationExpo 2020 (District 2020)Red Line8 minutesAED 3
Equiti Metro StationAl GhubaibaRed Line60 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationDubai Healthcare CityRed Line65 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationDeira City CentreRed Line52 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationAl RasRed Line63 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationAl FahidiRed Line64 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationStadiumRed Line68 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationRashidiyaRed Line70 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationAl NahdaRed Line72 minutesAED 7.5
Equiti Metro StationEtisalatRed Line75 minutesAED 7.5

Equiti Metro Station Exits

Equiti Metro Station has several exits that ensure easy accessibility for passengers:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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:

DayTime
Monday5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Tuesday5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Wednesday5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Thursday5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Friday5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (Next day)
Saturday5:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Sunday8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)

FAQs

Equiti Metro Station is a key station on Dubai’s Red Line, strategically located along Sheikh Zayed Road. It serves as a vital connection point for commuters traveling between business districts, residential neighborhoods, and industrial zones. This station provides access to various key locations in Dubai, making it an essential part of the city’s metro network.

Equiti Metro Station is easily accessible from multiple exit points. The main exit connects directly to Sheikh Zayed Road, offering quick access to major highways and nearby commercial areas. Additional exits lead towards the Al Quoz industrial area, and a footbridge across Sheikh Zayed Road ensures safe and convenient pedestrian access to both sides of the road. Accessible exits with ramps and elevators cater to those with mobility needs, ensuring everyone can use the station with ease.

The fare for traveling from Equiti Metro Station depends on your destination along the Red Line. Prices typically range from AED 3 to AED 7.5, depending on the distance. For example, a short trip to Jebel Ali might cost around AED 3, while a longer journey to Dubai International Airport could cost up to AED 7.5.

Equiti Metro Station is set to undergo several improvements to enhance its efficiency and connectivity. These include upgrades to accommodate better integration with feeder bus routes, cycling paths, and pedestrian infrastructure. The station will also benefit from smart technology upgrades, sustainability initiatives like solar panels, and increased service frequency. These developments aim to provide a more seamless and eco-friendly experience for commuters as the station continues to play a significant role in Dubai’s evolving transit network.

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.

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