Dubai Unveils AED 20 Billion Blue Line Metro Project, Set to Transform Urban Mobility by 2029
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has officially launched the tunnelling works for the Dubai Metro Blue Line project, a significant infrastructure initiative with an investment exceeding AED 20.5 billion. This ambitious project encompasses a 30-kilometer route, featuring a 15.5-kilometer underground segment and a 14.5-kilometer elevated stretch. The Blue Line will include 14 stations, comprising three interchange stations, seven elevated stations, and four underground stations, designed to serve nine key districts projected to accommodate around one million residents as part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of investing in the transport sector as a means to enhance Dubai’s global competitiveness. He stated that the Blue Line is part of a broader vision aimed at creating a more connected, efficient, and sustainable urban environment. He highlighted that all projects in Dubai are executed to meet the highest international standards, supported by meticulous planning and a skilled workforce of 180 railway experts and engineers.
The formal inauguration ceremony for the tunnelling works was attended by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
Key Milestone
The commencement of tunnelling works from the largest underground interchange station in the metro network, covering over 44,000 square meters, underscores Dubai’s commitment to developing a smart mobility system. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life, facilitate the movement of people, and promote business growth, thereby solidifying Dubai’s reputation as a premier global destination.
Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the project’s timeline, which includes the route’s approval in November 2023, contract awarding in December 2024, and the laying of the foundation stone in June 2025. Currently, the project is 20% complete, with over 10,000 workers and 500 engineers engaged under Emirati leadership.
Accelerated Execution
The project consortium has successfully completed more than 13 million work hours without any lost-time injuries. Construction at the stations is progressing at an accelerated pace, surpassing planned completion rates. Ongoing bridge works include the construction of the first metro bridge over Dubai Creek, which will extend 1.3 kilometers. These structures are anticipated to take shape by June of next year.
According to His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the overall completion of the project is expected to reach 30% by the end of 2026, with the official opening scheduled for September 9, 2029. The combined Dubai Metro and Tram network currently spans 101 kilometers and consists of 140 trains, having served nearly 2.8 billion commuters since its inception in 2009, with daily ridership estimated at one million.
Station Designs Showcased
Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the architectural designs for the International City 1 interchange station, which is set to be the largest underground station in the network, with an estimated capacity to accommodate 350,000 riders daily. He also examined the interior designs for the Emaar Properties Station, which will stand as the world’s tallest metro station at 74 meters, designed to evoke a sense of luxury and belonging.
The remaining stations will feature contemporary designs inspired by the four elements: air, water, earth, and fire. Each design aims to symbolize various aspects of Dubai’s identity and aspirations.
Three-Pronged Tunnelling Works
The Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), named ‘Al Wugeisha,’ has been activated to commence tunnelling in three directions from the International City 1 Station: toward Mirdif, the Auto Market, and Al Warsan. The TBM is 163 meters long, weighs over 2,000 tonnes, and is designed to advance 13 to 17 meters per day. It incorporates high-precision digital guidance systems and an environmentally friendly design to minimize impact on surrounding ground layers.
Boost for Knowledge and Tech Economy
The Blue Line will connect with the Green Line at Creek Station and the Red Line at Centrepoint Station, facilitating access to Dubai Silicon Oasis, a hub for innovation. This connectivity will enable 20-minute journeys to Dubai International Airport and is projected to reduce traffic congestion by 20% along its corridors.
Iconic Design and Proactive Planning
The Emaar Properties Station, designed by the renowned firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, will accommodate 160,000 riders daily. To ensure quality and efficiency, the RTA has established dedicated ready-mix concrete plants and precast factories specifically for the Blue Line, enhancing supply chains and expediting implementation timelines.
Source: www.emirates247.com
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Published on 2026-05-03 13:00:00 • By the Editorial Desk
