In Dubai, You Can Buy Anything — Even a Metro Station

Next time you’re wondering what you can buy in Dubai, consider a metro station. In a city where almost everything feels up for grabs, it turns out that even public transport can come with your name on it — quite literally.

If you’ve noticed Dubai Metro stations changing names from time to time, there’s a reason behind it. These aren’t random decisions — they’re part of a broader strategy that blends branding with urban infrastructure. Since 2009, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has been operating a first-of-its-kind model for monetising public transport: the Dubai Metro Naming Rights initiative.

This programme allows local and international companies to purchase naming rights to select stations on the Red and Green lines for a fixed term. The goal? Strategic brand visibility — and a deeper connection to the city’s infrastructure.

But money alone won’t get you on the map. Interested companies must meet strict criteria: they need to have a presence in the UAE, financial stability, a clean ethical track record, and an active corporate social responsibility policy. In short — no, you can’t just name a station after yourself and slap your photo on it, as tempting as that might be.

Instead, brands must prove their alignment with Dubai’s values and long-term vision. With over 275 million metro users annually — and around 800,000 daily passengers — it’s no wonder that brands see this as prime real estate for awareness and credibility.

Which stations have changed names?

Out of 64 total stations (including 9 underground), 18 have undergone name changes. Here are some of the most notable:

• Al Khail → Al Fardan Exchange
• Sharaf DG / Mashreq → InsuranceMarket
• Al Fahidi → Sharaf DG
• Al Rashidya → Centrepoint
• Al Jafiliya → Max
• Dubai Marina / DAMAC Properties → Sobha Realty
• Khalid Bin Al Waleed → BurJuman
• Noor Bank / Al Safa → Onpassive
• Al Karama → ADCB
• First Gulf Bank → Equiti
• GGICO → Al Garhoud
• Nakheel → Al Khail
• DUBAL → Energy
• Jebel Ali Industrial → Danube
• Jebel Ali → UAE Exchange → Life Pharmacy
• Jumeirah Lakes Towers → DMCC
• Nakheel Harbour and Tower → Jebel Ali
• Etisalat Station → Etisalat by e&

The most recent update was announced on May 5, when UAE Exchange Station was officially renamed Life Pharmacy Metro Station under a new 10-year agreement. The deal was signed between Life Pharmacy Group and Hypermedia, with Mada Media as RTA’s authorised concessionaire. All signage, maps, and system updates will roll out gradually from May through August 2025.

What’s next?

For Dubai, it’s not just about sponsorship — it’s about building a network where branding becomes part of the journey. The Metro Naming Rights programme continues to evolve, giving companies a unique opportunity to embed themselves in the daily rhythm of the city.

And who knows? If your brand checks all the boxes, the next stop on the Dubai Metro might just carry your name.