Dubai: 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, which involves a substantial investment exceeding AED20.5 billion. The new 30-km metro line will significantly enhance the city's transport infrastructure, featuring both underground and above-ground sections, with 14 stations planned along its route.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Blue Line will serve nine strategic districts, accommodating a projected population of approximately one million people in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The project will consist of three interchange stations, seven elevated stations, and four underground stations. His Highness also assessed the interior design plans for the new metro stations and received updates on the project's progress.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of investing in transportation as a means to secure Dubai's future and bolster its global competitiveness. He described the Blue Line as part of a broader vision for creating a more interconnected, efficient, and sustainable city. During the ceremony, he was joined by other prominent figures, including H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and several senior officials.
The launch event took place at the largest underground interchange station in the metro network, spanning over 44,000 square meters. This development underscores Dubai's commitment to smart mobility solutions that enhance quality of life, support business growth, and foster community connectivity. The emirate continues to pioneer infrastructure development that aligns with its economic and urban objectives.
Sheikh Mohammed's visit to the construction site was hosted by Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), along with top executives from MAPA, LIMAK, and CRRC Hong Kong. The current project completion stands at 20%, with over 10,000 workers and more than 500 engineers and experts engaged in its execution.
The construction consortium has achieved over 13 million work hours without recording any lost-time injuries. Progress at the stations is advancing rapidly, already surpassing planned completion rates. Additionally, bridge works are underway, with work on the piers of the bridge crossing Dubai Creek beginning.
As per the project timeline, 30% completion is anticipated by the end of 2026, with the line set to open on September 9, 2029. Al Tayer provided insights into the expansive Dubai Metro and Tram network, which has served nearly 2.8 billion commuters since its launch in 2009.
The Blue Line will connect key areas, including Dubai Silicon Oasis, a hub for innovation and technology, facilitating quick access to Dubai International Airport. It is also expected to reduce traffic congestion significantly along its corridors. The line features a depot and maintenance facility for trains in Al Ruwayyah 3 and will be integrated with the existing metro lines, enhancing connectivity throughout the city.
The iconic Emaar Properties Station, designed by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, will be the world's tallest metro station at 74 meters. The station's design, inspired by the concept of a gateway, aims to reflect Dubai's vision as a city of the future. The project also includes advanced construction practices, with ready-mix concrete batching plants and precast concrete storage sites to enhance quality control and efficiency.
The Dubai Metro Blue Line represents a significant milestone in the emirate's transport sector, reinforcing its status as a leading global city. The project's completion is set to provide a major boost to Dubai's infrastructure, supporting its growth and development ambitions.