The Dubai Metro is gearing up for a significant transformation, transitioning from the ONPASSIVE station to the Garmin Metro Station. This change follows a new contract signed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai, marking a notable moment in the evolution of the city’s public transport network.

New Partnership with Garmin

The RTA has entered into a decade-long agreement with Garmin, a leading name in smartwatches, fitness trackers, and GPS technology. This partnership was facilitated through AMIT Retail, Garmin’s exclusive distributor in the UAE. Positioned strategically between Al Quoz and Al Safa, this station was originally inaugurated as Noor Bank in 2010. It underwent a name change to Al Safa Station in November 2020, and more recently became known as ONPASSIVE in January 2023 after securing naming rights from an artificial intelligence firm.

The new Garmin branding is set to launch between September and November 2026. This station will join a growing list of commercialized metro stops along Dubai’s Red and Green Lines, effectively transforming them into valuable investment venues while simultaneously offering brands a unique opportunity to engage with the community.

Success of the Naming Rights Initiative

Abdul Mohsen Kalbat, CEO of RTA’s Rail Agency, highlighted that Garmin’s involvement reinforces the initiative’s success in attracting prominent brands from various sectors. He elaborated on how such partnerships bolster public-private collaborations and contribute to Dubai’s economic development. Since its inception in 2009, the Naming Rights Initiative has been a pioneering effort, providing businesses an exceptional venue to enhance brand visibility through Dubai’s metro system. Kalbat considers the Dubai Metro an iconic landmark that epitomizes the city’s wealth of economic and investment prospects, both regionally and globally.

Garmin President Clifton Pemble expressed enthusiasm about joining Dubai’s renowned transport network. He emphasized the company’s mission to create indispensable products that enhance the lives of customers, enabling them to navigate their adventures and pursue their fitness and wellness goals effectively. “We are proud to collaborate with RTA and our valued distributor AMIT Retail to help people move through the world with greater confidence, connection, and purpose,” he stated.

What Commuters Can Expect

As part of this transformation, RTA will implement updates across all internal and external signage at metro stations to reflect the new Garmin brand. This includes changes to digital displays and public transport applications. Additionally, audio announcements on trains will also be revised to inform passengers about the revised station name.

Commuters are advised to take note of the updated station name in all relevant locations and are assured that RTA teams will be available to assist during the transition period. This comprehensive overhaul underscores RTA’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for all metro users.

The upcoming Garmin Metro Station represents more than just a name change; it signifies a collaboration aimed at enriching community engagement and enhancing brand interaction within Dubai’s celebrated public transportation landscape.