Dubai Railbus testing to be completed in two years as sustainable transport drive gathers pace
Live updates: World Governments Summit in Dubai Technical studies on Dubai's Railbus project will be completed in two years and the new network will complement existing transport infrastructure, such as the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, The National can reveal. Construction costs will be far less expensive than those of the Dubai Metro, with Railbus expected to be "20 per cent to 30 per cent cheaper than comparable systems globally", Abdul Muhsen Ibrahim Kalbat, chief executive of the Roads and Transport Authority, told The National on Tuesday. 'Sustainable transportation is part of the national strategy to achieve zero emissions by 2050,' he added. 'This type of system will complement our mass transit system, such as Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, and will integrate with existing public transport users from the areas adjacent to Metro stations." Mr Kalbat said a tiered system will be used for ticketing, with the network split into zones making it cost-effective for the customer. 'According to the research and development that the company is doing right now in co-ordination and collaboration with the RTA, we expect to get results of all studies and research within two years," he added. "Then we will be studying the feasibility of implementing this type of system within Dubai to explore the best routes and the best areas to start testing this type of system.' Although no launch date has been announced, Mattar Al Tayer, director general of the RTA, said the next steps after the two years of technical studies 'will involve identifying the optimal locations for pilot operations to assess its operational efficiency and integration with Dubai's wider transport network'. The RTA said the capsule-like vehicles, 11.5 metres in length and 2.65m wide, have a top speed of 100kph and each can hold 40 passengers. The vehicles will rely on solar power, with all tracks set to be covered by panels. The design, which has been optimised for urban landscapes, will be 3D-printed and the vehicles will be made from recyclable material. 'All of the related infrastructure will be developed more economically when compared to other similar systems,' Mr Kalbat said. 'It will run on rails and have the flexibility of a bus, as it will be able to manoeuvre within residential areas to serve the first and last-mile transport demands in Dubai.' On Monday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, was joined by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, in reviewing the Railbus prototype with Mr Al Tayer, while visiting the RTA stand at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. It is the latest in a series of recent announcements to help ease the pressure on Dubai's road network, with plans released last June setting out to double the number of Metro and tram stations by 2040. Dubai has 55 Metro stations – 35 on the red line and 20 on the green line – as well as 11 tram stops. This number is to be increased to 96 stations spanning 140km by 2030, according to Dubai Media Office. Set to transform the north-east of the city, an Dh18 billion ($4.9 billion) project is under way to add a blue line to the Metro system, which will feature 14 stations and add 30km to the network, more than half of it underground. Under plans laid out by Sheikh Hamdan, several car-free zones are to be established across the city.
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Arabian Business
2 hours ago
- Arabian Business
Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed lays foundation stone for 30km Metro Blue Line
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, attended the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Dubai Metro Blue Line yesterday, marking a milestone in the expansion of the city's public transportation network. The new line will span 30 kilometres and comprise 14 stations, transforming mobility across nine districts projected to house over one million residents according to the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the Dubai Media Office said in a statement. 'During the laying of the foundation stone for the first station on the Dubai Metro's Blue Line, which has a total benefit valued at AED 56 billion, the station represents an architectural icon that will be added to Dubai's cultural icons. It will be the first station on the Blue Line, which will extend 30 kilometers, bringing the total length of Dubai's railways to 131 kilometers and 78 stations. Since its launch until the end of last year, the Dubai Metro has transported more than 2.5 billion people, an average of 900,000 passengers per day. The new route will be a major addition to the emirate's transport infrastructure. We continue to develop the city… we continue to build the best city to live in the world,' Sheikh Mohammed said in an X post. Dubai Metro Blue Line to feature world's tallest metro station at 74 metres The Dubai Ruler approved the design of the Emaar Properties Station, which will become the world's tallest metro station at 74 metres. The American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) designed the station, taking inspiration from the concept of a crossing gateway. SOM's portfolio includes landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the Olympic Tower in New York, and the Sears Tower in Chicago. The station will cover approximately 11,000 square metres and accommodate up to 160,000 passengers per day, with daily users expected to exceed 70,000 by 2040. Upon completion of the Blue Line project, Dubai's rail network will expand to 131 kilometres total, comprising 78 stations and 168 trains. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the Metro's expansion. Dubai Metro ridership grows to 275.4 million passengers in 2024 Al Tayer stated that the Dubai Metro has transported over 2.527 billion passengers from its launch on 9 September 2009 through the end of 2024, recording a daily average of 900,000 passengers in 2024. Ridership has grown from 38.887 million in 2010 to 69 million in 2011, reflecting a growth rate of 77 per cent. The figure continued rising to over 109 million passengers in 2012, before surpassing 200 million in 2017, jumping to 260 million in 2023 and hitting 275.4 million in 2024. Studies indicate the number of Dubai Metro passengers is expected to exceed 300 million in 2026 and reach 320 million by 2031. The service began in 2009 with 10 stations, reaching 26 stations in 2010 and growing to 46 stations in 2011. The Dubai Tram started operations in 2014, and the number of metro and tram stations rose to 56. In 2021, the launch of Route 2020 added seven more stations, raising the total to 64. The Blue Line will add 14 new stations, bringing the total to 78. The number of trains rose from 16 at the Metro's launch in 2009 to 44 in 2010, reaching 79 trains by 2011 and increasing to 90 with the Dubai Tram inauguration in 2014, further expanding to 140 by 2021. Blue Line capacity to exceed 850,000 daily passengers With the Blue Line coming into operation, the total number of trains will increase to 168, comprising 157 Metro trains and 11 Tram trains. 'The Blue Line comprises two main routes. The first runs from Creek Interchange Station on the Green Line, located in Al Jaddaf, passing through Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Ras Al Khor, before reaching International City 1, which includes an underground interchange station. The route continues towards International City 2 and 3, extending to Dubai Silicon Oasis and up to Academic City. This section spans 21 km and connects 10 stations,' Al Tayer said. 'The second route of the Blue Line starts from Centrepoint Interchange Station on the Red Line in Al Rashidiya. It passes through Mirdif and Al Warqa, concluding at International City 1 Interchange Station. This route measures 9 km in length and links four stations. The project also includes the construction of a metro depot at Al Ruwayah 3,' he added. The Emaar Properties Station will stand 74 metres tall and 38 metres wide, offering passengers an immersive spatial experience. The exterior features a towering facade that harmonises with the area's architectural identity, with a central gateway allowing natural light to flood down to the platform level. The interior design features towering walls finished in natural textures and warm, earthy tones. The material palette includes Jura limestone and bronze metal wall panels at the platform level, complemented by granite flooring. Glass ceiling panels at both lobby and platform levels allow natural light to permeate the space. The station will serve the estimated 40,000 residents of Dubai Creek Harbour, in addition to visitors. Emaar has secured naming rights for the station for ten years, starting from its inauguration in 2029. The Blue Line consists of 14 stations, including three interchange stations at Al Jaddaf, Al Rashidiya and International City 1, plus the Emaar Properties Station in Dubai Creek Harbour. Daily ridership on the Blue Line is projected to reach 320,000 passengers by 2040. The line will be the first Dubai Metro line to cross Dubai Creek on a 1,300-metre-long viaduct. It includes nine elevated stations and five underground stations, with features including public bus bays, taxi stands, dedicated areas for bike and electric scooter racks, and parking spaces for People of Determination. The maximum capacity of the Dubai Metro Blue Line exceeds 850,000 passengers per day. Passenger numbers are expected to reach 200,000 per day by 2030, rising to 320,000 per day by 2040. The Blue Line connects existing and future high population density areas, estimated to reach around one million residents by 2040. Key areas served include Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Festival City, International City (home to Dragon Mart and large residential complexes visited by over 200,000 residents and visitors), and residential neighbourhoods like Al Rashidiya, Al Warqaa, and Mirdif. The line extends to Dubai Silicon Oasis, recognised as one of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan's Urban Centres, and Academic City, projected to accommodate over 50,000 university students by 2029. Dubai Metro Blue Line achieves first platinum green building certification Initial studies by RTA indicate that by 2040, the project is projected to yield a benefit-cost ratio of 2.60 (AED2.60 in benefits for every AED1 spent). The total anticipated benefits will exceed AED56.5 billion by 2040, including substantial savings in time and fuel, reduced accident-related fatalities, and lower carbon emissions. The Blue Line is expected to decrease traffic congestion on its served routes by 20 per cent and appreciate the value of land and properties near stations by up to 25 per cent. The Blue Line represents the first transport project in Dubai to fully comply with green building standards, achieving Platinum Category certification. Station designs have been planned to maximise space efficiency, reducing construction, operation and maintenance costs whilst ensuring seamless integration with various transportation modes. Dubai Metro maintains its position globally with a current total length of 90 kilometres. This network includes around 52 kilometres for the Red Line, 23 kilometres for the Green Line, and 15 kilometres for Route 2020. The network comprises 53 stations and 129 trains. The Dubai Metro has achieved a 99.7 per cent punctuality rate and represents nearly 60 per cent of total usage across all public transportation modes in Dubai. The system played a role in boosting Dubai's competitiveness for hosting international events, including Expo 2020 Dubai, which coincided with the launch of Dubai Metro Route 2020. The Blue Line represents the fifth strategic public transport project, joining the existing red and green lines of the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram and Dubai Metro Route 2020.
Khaleej Times
2 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai Metro Blue Line: First station, train capacity, key features explained
Dubai Metro is speeding towards its newest network, the Blue Line, with new details revealed Monday. With its futuristic design, the world's highest metro station, and the first Metro line crossing Dubai Creek, the anticipation is real. With just 4 years away to open, the new network links the Green Line and Red Line. It will connect residential areas to Dubai International Airport in just 20 minutes, and reduce traffic congestion by 20 per cent along the roads served by the Blue Line. It also connects to the Dubai Silicon Oasis, a major urban hub. The Dubai Ruler laid the foundation stone today, marking a new chapter in the emirate's transport sector. From route to design, parking to key elements; here's all you need to know. Stations, route The Blue Line will link to the Red Line at Centrepoint Station, and the Green Line at Creek Station. It consists of 14 stations, divided between two routes. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. The first route, with 10 stations, starts from the Green Line's Creek station, and passes through Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Ras Al Khor, before reaching International City 1, which includes an underground interchange station. The route continues towards International City 2 and 3, extending to Dubai Silicon Oasis and up to Academic City. The second route, with four stations, starts at Red Line's Centrepoint station, passes through Mirdif and Al Warqa, concluding at International City 1 Interchange Station. Easing congestion, connecting communities The Blue Line is not just another innovation; it is strategically crafted to serve residents where they most need it. Reducing travel time, easing congestion, and connecting vital areas to each other, the new network seeks to make life easier for daily commuters — students being a key demographic. The Blue Line connects to Dubai Academy City, which is projected to accommodate over 50,000 university students by 2029, and Dubai Silicon Oasis, one of the emirate's major urban centres. The new line will cut traffic congestion on its served routes by 20 per cent. Providing a direct connection between Dubai International Airport and nine key areas, travel will only take between 10 and 25 minutes. The project also serves the aspirations of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to create a '20-minute city.' This concept ensures that more than 80 per cent of essential services are within a 20-minute travel time for residents. Size, passenger capacity The Dubai Metro Blue Line spans 30km, with 21km in its first route, and 9km in the second. With the completion of the project, Dubai's total rail network will expand to a total of 131 km, comprising 78 stations and 168 trains. It can carry a maximum of over 850,000 passengers per day, based on the scale of the stations. By 2030, riders are expected to reach 200,000 per day rising to 320,000 daily commuters by 2040. Naming rights, first station A station on the Blue Line could be named after your business. During the groundbreaking ceremony, it was announced that Emaar had secured the naming rights for the first station, Emaar Properties, for ten years, starting from its official inauguration in 2029. The next phase will include announcements regarding naming rights for other stations along the Blue Line. The first station on the network is also the world's highest metro station, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the renowned American architectural firm behind Burj Khalifa. Integrating natural light through glass ceilings on towering walls, earthy tones, and a fusion of stone and metal, the design fuses the old and the new. Its innovative look embodies the Dubai vision of a 'gateway to the future.' Community oriented-features The stations have parking spaces, electric scooter racks, taxi stands, and areas for private car drop off and pick-up, along with accessible parking spaces for People of Determination. It also provides charging points for electric vehicles, and is designed to seamlessly integrate with other modes of transport. The Blue Line has nine elevated stations and five underground stations. The exterior design of the elevated stations was inspired by the shape of a seashell, while the interior design of the stations reflects seven thematic models: Heritage, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Economic benefits By 2040, the project is projected to yield a benefit-cost ratio of 2.60 (Dh2.60 in benefits for every Dh1 spent). The total anticipated benefits will exceed Dh56.5 billion by 2040. These benefits include substantial savings in time and fuel, reduced accident-related fatalities, and lower carbon emissions. The Blue Line is also expected to appreciate the value of land and properties near stations by up to 25 per cent. The network is also the first transport project in Dubai to fully comply with green building standards, achieving Platinum Category certification.
Zawya
4 hours ago
- Zawya
Mohammed bin Rashid lays foundation stone for Dubai Metro Blue Line
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, attended the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a key milestone in the expansion of the city's public transportation network. Spanning 30 km and comprising 14 stations, the new line is set to transform mobility across nine key districts, projected to be home to over one million residents, as outlined in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. His Highness also approved the distinctive architectural design of the iconic Emaar Properties Station, the highest metro station in the world, standing at 74 metres. Inspired by the concept of a crossing gateway, the station was designed by the renowned American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), one of the world's leading design studios. The firm's portfolio includes iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the Olympic Tower in New York, and the Sears Tower in Chicago. The station is designed to integrate harmoniously into the existing urban environment and embodies the vision of 'Dubai: A Gateway to the Future'. Covering an area of approximately 11,000 square metres, the station is designed to accommodate up to 160,000 passengers per day, with the number of daily users expected to exceed 70,000 by 2040. With the completion of the Blue Line project, Dubai's rail network will expand to a total of 131 km, comprising 78 stations and 168 trains. Upon arriving at the venue of the ceremony, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was welcomed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority. At the start of the ceremony, His Highness viewed a historical gallery showcasing the dream of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum for constructing a metro line connecting Dubai districts. It included a collection of photographs from His Highness's visits to several world capitals, as well as rare images of him using the railway network in the United Kingdom, where the idea of constructing a similar project in Dubai was conceived. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was briefed by Al Tayer on the expansion of metro services, including the growth in ridership, station design, number of stations, and train carriages. The Dubai Metro has transported over 2.527 billion passengers from its launch on 9/9/2009 through the end of 2024. The Metro recorded a daily average of 900,000 passengers in 2024. Ridership has grown steadily over the years, from 38.887 million in 2010 to 69 million in 2011, reflecting a growth rate of 77%. It continued to rise to over 109 million passengers in 2012, before surpassing 200 million in 2017, jumping to 260 million in 2023 and hitting 275.4 million in 2024. According to studies, the number of Dubai Metro passengers is expected to exceed 300 million in 2026 and reach 320 million by 2031. His Highness was also briefed on the expansion of metro stations. The service began in 2009 with 10 stations, reaching 26 stations in 2010 and growing to 46 stations in 2011. By 2014, the Dubai Tram started operations, and the number of metro and tram stations soared to 56. In 2021, the launch of the Metro's Route 2020 added seven more stations, raising the total to 64. The upcoming Blue Line will add 14 new stations to the network, which will bring the total number to 78. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was also briefed on the growth in the number of trains, which rose from 16 at the Metro's launch in 2009 to 44 in 2010. The figure reached 79 trains by 2011 and increased to 90 with the inauguration of the Dubai Tram in 2014, further expanding to 140 by 2021. With the Blue Line coming into operation, the total number of trains will increase to 168, comprising 157 Metro trains and 11 Tram trains. His Highness also reviewed the evolution of both the interior and exterior designs of metro stations. The exterior design of the elevated stations was inspired by the shape of a seashell, alongside the distinctive iconic architecture of Expo and Emaar Properties stations. The interior design of the stations reflects seven thematic models: Heritage, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, in addition to unique design elements developed specifically for Expo and Emaar Properties stations. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid received a further briefing from Al Tayer on the Dubai Metro Blue Line, which links the Green Line at Creek Station, and the Red Line at Centrepoint Station. The line serves residential and academic zones, as well as key development projects, with an estimated population of one million by 2040. It also connects to the Dubai Silicon Oasis - one of the urban centres outlined in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan - a hub for innovation and knowledge that supports the growth of the technology-driven economy and attracts skilled and creative talent. Al Tayer stated, 'The Blue Line comprises two main routes. The first runs from Creek Interchange Station on the Green Line, located in Al Jaddaf, passing through Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Ras Al Khor, before reaching International City 1, which includes an underground interchange station. The route continues towards International City 2 and 3, extending to Dubai Silicon Oasis and up to Academic City. This section spans 21 km and connects 10 stations.' 'The second route of the Blue Line starts from Centrepoint Interchange Station on the Red Line in Al Rashidiya. It passes through Mirdif and Al Warqa, concluding at International City 1 Interchange Station. This route measures 9 km in length and links four stations. The project also includes the construction of a metro depot at Al Ruwayah 3,' said Al Tayer. His Highness watched a film highlighting the Dubai Metro Blue Line project, which links the red and green lines of the Dubai Metro and serves economic, academic, tourism, and residential areas expected to house one million people by 2040. It connects these areas with direct journeys to Dubai International Airport in just 20 minutes. It also supports the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan by extending metro services to the fifth urban centre and contributing to a 20% reduction in traffic congestion along the roads served by the Blue Line. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid paused at the imposing large-scale model of the iconic Emaar Properties Station, where he was briefed by Mattar Al Tayer on the highest metro station in the world, with a height of 74 metres. A new urban landmark, the new station complements Dubai's iconic infrastructure and embodies the emirate's vision to serve as a gateway to the future. It forms a striking visual presence that harmonises with the surrounding urban landscape, elevating the concept of placemaking and positioning the station as a primary destination for Blue Line users. The station also offers integrated commercial and investment opportunities. Spanning an area of 11,000 square metres, the station is designed to handle up to 160,000 passengers, with more than 70,000 expected to use it daily once operational. It will serve the estimated 40,000 residents of Dubai Creek Harbour, in addition to visitors. Upon arrival, passengers are greeted by a majestic architectural structure standing 74 metres tall and 38 metres wide, offering an immersive spatial experience from the moment they enter or disembark. The station's exterior features a towering facade that harmonises with the area's architectural identity. A central gateway allows natural light to flood down to the platform level, creating a bright and welcoming space during the day. Sunlight reflects off the stone surfaces, underscoring the station's timeless elegance. By night, it transforms into a radiant beacon that guides travellers, with a carefully planned lighting strategy that enhances its architectural character and reaffirms its role as a gateway to Dubai's bright future. The interior design of the station is curated to create a sense of luxury. Towering walls rise elegantly, finished in natural textures and warm, earthy tones that strengthen the connection to the land, reflect the spirit of place, and embody the community's resilience and cohesion. The overall architectural language creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all visitors. The material palette features premium, durable finishes such as Jura limestone and bronze metal wall panels at the platform level, complemented by robust granite flooring. At both the lobby and platform levels, glass ceiling panels allow natural light to permeate the space, enhancing the feeling of openness and elevating the overall passenger experience. The combination of natural stone and polished metal creates a balance between elegance and sophistication, giving the station a distinctive character that unites tradition with modernity. The station's construction materials were meticulously chosen to reflect a blend of heritage and modernity, incorporating stone, glass, and bronze, forming a symbol of Dubai's continuous pursuit of progress. Its dynamic form and architectural scale create a distinctive visual presence. Sustainability, longevity, and resilience to operational and climatic conditions were central to the selection process, supporting the station's ambition to meet the highest standards of environmental efficiency. During the ceremony, it was announced that Emaar had secured the naming rights for the iconic Emaar Properties Station for ten years, starting from its official inauguration in 2029. The next phase will include announcements regarding naming rights for other stations along the Blue Line. At the conclusion of the event, His Highness joined the team overseeing the Blue Line project for a commemorative photo. The team included RTA staff members, the contractor consortium, and project consultants. The Blue Line consists of 14 stations, including three interchange stations at Al Jaddaf, Al Rashidiya and International City 1, as well as an iconic station in Dubai Creek Harbour. By 2040, daily ridership on the Blue Line is projected to reach 320,000 passengers. It marks the first Dubai Metro line to cross Dubai Creek on a 1,300-metre-long viaduct. The Blue Line connects and integrates the existing red and green lines, supporting the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, aimed at transforming Dubai into the world's best city to live in by offering sustainable and soft mass transit solutions. These solutions are designed to facilitate the mobility of both residents and visitors, promoting well-being and enhancing Dubai's global competitiveness as a leading destination for hosting international events. Additionally, they align with the aspirations of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to create a '20-minute city.' This innovative concept ensures that more than 80% of essential services are within a 20-minute travel time for residents, fostering a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) approach. The new line offers direct connectivity between Dubai International Airport and nine key areas, including 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. Travel time along the route is expected to range between 10 and 25 minutes. The Dubai Metro Blue Line features 14 stations, including three interchange stations: Creek Station at Al Jaddaf on the Green Line, Centrepoint Station at Al Rashidiya on the Red Line, and International City 1 Station on the Blue Line, in addition to the iconic station located in Dubai Creek Harbour. The line includes nine elevated stations and five underground stations. The line has all the features of an integrated transport system, including public bus bays, taxi stands, dedicated areas for bike and electric scooter racks, and parking spaces for People of Determination. The maximum capacity of the Dubai Metro Blue Line exceeds 850,000 passengers per day, based on the scale of the stations included within the project scope. Passenger numbers are expected to reach 200,000 per day by 2030, rising to 320,000 per day by 2040. Dubai Metro Blue Line represents the fifth strategic public transport project, joining the ranks of the existing red and green lines of the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram and Dubai Metro Route 2020. It is one of the largest upcoming strategic transport projects. Upon the completion of the Blue Line, Dubai's total railway network will extend from 101 km to 131 km. This includes 120 km for the Dubai Metro and 11 km for Dubai Tram. The number of metro and tram stations will increase from 64 to 78, encompassing 67 stations for the Dubai Metro and 11 stations for the Dubai Tram. Additionally, the fleet will expand from 140 to 168 trains, including 157 for the Dubai Metro and 11 for the Dubai Tram. The Dubai Metro Blue Line offers a range of distinctive features. In addition to the iconic Emaar Properties Station, it includes the first Dubai Metro bridge crossing Dubai Creek, stretching 1,300 metres. The line is also home to the largest underground interchange station in the network, spanning over 44,000 square metres with a projected capacity of 350,000 passengers per day. Notably, the Blue Line is the first transport project in Dubai to fully comply with green building standards, achieving Platinum Category certification. The Dubai Metro Blue Line was meticulously planned with sustainability in mind, ensuring it connects existing and future high population densities, estimated to reach around one million residents by 2040. Key areas served by the Blue Line include Dubai Creek Harbour and Dubai Festival City, noted for their immense development potential, as well as International City, home to Dragon Mart and large residential complexes visited by over 200,000 residents and visitors. It also serves residential neighbourhoods like Al Rashidiya, Al Warqaa, and Mirdif. It also extends to Dubai Silicon Oasis, recognised as one of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan's Urban Centres, and Academic City, which is projected to accommodate over 50,000 university students by 2029. The construction of the Blue Line project will utilise cutting-edge international technologies in rail systems. Station designs have been planned to maximise space efficiency, thereby reducing construction, operation and maintenance costs. Additionally, these designs aim for seamless integration with various transportation modes, including public buses and taxis. Initial studies by RTA indicate that infrastructure investment is a key driver of economic growth in cities worldwide. The Dubai Metro Blue Line project aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, offering economic, social and environmental returns. By 2040, the project is projected to yield a benefit-cost ratio of 2.60 (AED2.60 in benefits for every AED1 spent). The total anticipated benefits will exceed AED56.5 billion by 2040. These benefits include substantial savings in time and fuel, reduced accident-related fatalities, and lower carbon emissions. The Blue Line is also expected to decrease traffic congestion on its served routes by 20% and appreciate the value of land and properties near stations by up to 25%. The Blue Line also provides a direct connection between Dubai International Airport and nine key areas situated along its route. It connects with the fifth urban centre, Dubai Silicon Oasis Centre, ensuring that all major urban centres in Dubai are seamlessly connected by metro lines. The endorsement of the Dubai Metro Blue Line signifies a major milestone, building upon the huge success the Dubai Metro has achieved since its inauguration on 9/9/2009. The Metro has emerged as the backbone of Dubai's transportation network, becoming the preferred mode of travel for both residents and visitors. It represents nearly 60% of total usage across all public transportation modes in Dubai, which include buses, the Dubai Tram, and marine transport. From the start of operations until the end of 2024, the Dubai Metro has transported 2.527 billion passengers. In 2024, the Metro averaged over 900,000 passengers daily. The Dubai Metro has also recorded great success in upholding the highest international safety standards and operational efficiency, boasting a 99.7% punctuality rate. The Dubai Metro played a pivotal role in boosting Dubai's competitiveness for hosting major international events, including the hosting of Expo 2020 Dubai. This event coincided with the launch of the Dubai Metro Route 2020, a 15 km extension featuring seven new stations. It has also contributed to stimulating economic growth, boosting tourism, and appreciating the value of properties located near metro stations. Dubai Metro maintains its global position with a current total length of 90 km. This network includes around 52 km for the Red Line, 23 km for the Green Line, and 15 km for Route 2020. The network comprises 53 stations, with 29 on the Red Line, 18 on the Green Line, and seven on Route 2020, including an interchange station. Additionally, the fleet consists of 129 trains. The facilities and services offered at the Dubai Metro stations are recognised as some of the best globally.
