Dubai commuters now travel through Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station — the Red Line station formerly known as Al Khail has a new name as of March 18, 2025, under a naming rights agreement between the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and financial services provider Al Fardan Exchange.
What Is Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station?
Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station (station code R35) sits on Dubai's Red Line between Dubai Internet City station and Sobha Realty station, on Sheikh Zayed Road. The station serves commuters heading to the American University of Dubai, Dubai Media City, and Emirates Golf Club, and sits roughly 20 kilometres southwest of Downtown Dubai in the Tecom/Barsha Heights corridor.
The station originally opened on October 15, 2010 as Nakheel Station. It was first renamed Al Khail on November 24, 2020, and now carries the Al Fardan Exchange name from March 2025 onward.
Why Was the Station Renamed?
Dubai Metro's station naming rights program allows national and international companies to acquire naming rights and form partnerships with the RTA. The initiative brings together the public and private sectors, generating revenue for transport infrastructure while giving businesses prominent brand placement across one of the world's busiest metro networks.
In September 2024, the same Red Line saw InsuranceMarket Metro Station take over naming rights from the previous Mashreq Metro Station — part of the same ongoing RTA programme.
What Changes Can Commuters Expect?
Signage updates will roll out across both exterior and interior areas of the station between April and June 2025. The RTA will update the station name across its digital transport applications, platform mapping systems, and all other digital services. On-board audio announcements on approaching trains will also reflect the new name.
Al Fardan Exchange's financial services will be integrated into RTA's digital platforms as part of the naming rights deal.
Al Fardan Exchange's Role in Dubai's Transport Ecosystem
CEO Hasan Fardan Al Fardan expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying the company represents "Emirates heritage and urban mobility dedication." The 10-year naming rights agreement gives Al Fardan Exchange exclusive brand representation at the station.
The renaming marks another milestone as Dubai advances toward its goal of becoming a global leader in public transportation innovation.
