Transport Dubai breaks ground on Blue Line metro project By Pramod Kumar June 10, 2025, 10:19 AM Wam Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attends the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Dubai Metro Blue Line The Dubai government has broken ground on the expansion of its driverless metro line, aimed at reducing traffic, cutting emissions and contributing to economic growth. The foundation stone of the project was laid in the presence of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE state-run Wam news agency reported. He also approved the design of the Emaar Properties Station. The 30km Blue Line project, approved by Sheikh Mohammed in November 2023, will have 14 stations and is scheduled for completion in 2029. In December 2024, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) awarded a contract worth AED20.5 billion ($5.6 billion) for the project to a consortium of three Turkish and Chinese companies. The completion of the Blue Line will expand Dubai’s rail network to 131km, comprising 78 stations and 168 trains. It will be the first metro route crossing Dubai Creek through a 1,300-metre viaduct. Passenger numbers are expected to reach 200,000 per day by 2030, rising to 320,000 per day by 2040. The new line will directly connect Dubai International Airport and nine key areas along the line, namely Mirdif, Al Warqa, International City 1 and 2, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, Dubai Creek Harbour and Dubai Festival City. Omani startup a step closer to launching flying cars Etihad Rail’s super-fast service tracked by investors Iraq to launch Baghdad metro project later this year The travel time between these destinations is anticipated to range from 10 to 25 minutes. Upon the completion of the Blue Line, the emirate’s total railway network will extend from 101km to 131km. This includes 120 kmfor the Dubai Metro and 11km for Dubai Tram. The number of metro and tram stations will increase from 64 to 78 – 67 stations for the Dubai Metro and 11 stations for the Dubai Tram. The Blue Line will be home to the largest underground interchange station in the network, spanning 44,000 sq m with a projected capacity of 350,000 passengers per day. The new project aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, offering economic, social and environmental benefits. By 2040, the project’s anticipated benefits will exceed AED56.5 billion by 2040, including savings in time and fuel, reduced accident-related fatalities, and lower carbon emissions. Register now: It’s easy and free AGBI registered members can access even more of our unique analysis and perspective on business and economics in the Middle East. Why sign uP Exclusive weekly email from our editor-in-chief Personalised weekly emails for your preferred industry sectors Read and download our insight packed white papers Access to our mobile app Prioritised access to live events Register for free Already registered? Sign in I’ll register later Register now: It’s easy and free AGBI registered members can access even more of our unique analysis and perspective on business and economics in the Middle East. Why sign uP Exclusive weekly email from our editor-in-chief Personalised weekly emails for your preferred industry sectors Read and download our insight packed white papers Access to our mobile app Prioritised access to live events Register for free Already registered? Sign in I’ll register later
