Dubai ONPASSIVE Metro Station renamed Garmin for 10 years

When will ONPASSIVE Metro Station become Garmin?

As of September 9, 2026, the name-change process is underway, so Dubai Metro commuters may still encounter the ONPASSIVE Metro Station name while Garmin branding is introduced progressively.

RTA says the transition will run from September until the end of November 2026, covering internal and external station signage, maps, digital smart systems, RTA public-transport apps, navigation systems and onboard audio announcements. Announcements will also be updated before and upon arrival at the station.

Regular commuters may therefore need some time to get used to the Garmin Metro Station name while old and new references coexist during the transition.

The announcement concerns the station’s name and related passenger information. RTA has not announced any change to the Dubai Metro route or services at the station.

RTA has advised passengers to note the updated name across the affected platforms, with station teams available to provide assistance during the transition.

Dubai Metro station naming-rights programme

RTA launched the Dubai Metro Station Naming Rights Initiative in 2009, describing it as the first programme of its kind globally to offer private companies and organisations naming rights to metro stations.

RTA says the programme has become a successful public-private partnership model and a reference for other cities. It is also intended to attract private-sector investment, maximise the economic value of public-transport assets and support the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

RTA Rail Agency CEO Abdul Mohsen Kalbat said Garmin’s participation reflects the programme’s ability to attract leading brands from different sectors and strengthen public-private cooperation.

Mada Media CEO Mansoor Al Sabahi said Garmin is the first global brand to secure this particular naming-rights opportunity within the programme.

Garmin CEO Clifton Pemble said the partnership with RTA and AMIT Retail aligns with Garmin’s focus on navigation, fitness, health and connected products.

Abdul Aziz Abdulla, GMD of AMIT Retail LLC, said the agreement reflects continued investment in the UAE, bringing global technology brands closer to local communities and supporting Dubai’s ambition to be one of the world’s smartest and most connected cities.

What changes for Dubai Metro commuters?

Once the transition is complete, Garmin Metro Station will appear across maps, station signage, smart apps, navigation systems and other passenger-information channels.

RTA says the updated name will also be used in onboard audio announcements, meaning passengers will increasingly encounter Garmin Metro Station rather than ONPASSIVE Metro Station when searching for or travelling to the station.

Why Dubai Metro naming rights matter to brands

According to RTA, Dubai Metro naming rights give companies exposure to millions of residents and visitors every day through signage, maps, onboard announcements, smart apps, navigation systems and directional signage.

RTA says this sustained exposure can strengthen brand awareness, credibility and regional presence while delivering longer-term marketing value than conventional advertising campaigns.

The agreements can also support integrated marketing campaigns, interactive experiences and community initiatives, while increasing visibility among residents, tourists and businesspeople.

Hypermedia CEO Habib Wehbi said the programme reflects a shift towards branding integrated into everyday public infrastructure and supports Dubai’s position as a destination for strategic partnerships and investment.

The Garmin Metro Station name will remain in place for the full 10-year agreement.