Dubai’s Palm Monorail Suspended Indefinitely for Essential Maintenance
January 12, 2026
Dubai’s iconic Palm Monorail, the first monorail in the Middle East, has stopped operations indefinitely for essential maintenance work. The service connects Palm Jumeirah Island to the mainland. Operators say station maintenance is the cause. No reopening date has been set. The monorail first opened in April 2009 and runs about 5.45 km across Palm Jumeirah to Atlantis Aquaventure Resort. It has four stations and was operated by UK firm Serco. For over 16 years, it served residents, hotel guests, and visitors offering a scenic route. Now, with the suspension, locals and tourists must switch to taxis, buses, private cars, or hotel shuttles. Alternative options include ride-hailing apps, Dubai’s public buses, and tram-taxi combinations. Water taxis and private boats offer scenic but limited routes. Operators stress the maintenance ensures safety and efficiency for the future. However, no details about the work’s scope or duration have been given. This indefinite closure surprises many who planned trips during peak season. The monorail was both functional and a popular tourist attraction with views of Palm’s fronds and Dubai’s skyline. Despite the monorail closure, Palm Jumeirah remains accessible. Travelers are advised to allow extra travel time and check official channels for updates. The closure highlights Dubai’s focus on safety and the challenges of updating aging transport. Until the monorail reopens, taxis and buses are the key ways to reach Palm’s attractions smoothly.
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Tags:
Dubai
Palm Monorail
Palm Jumeirah
Transport Suspension
Maintenance
Tourism
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