
Massive investments in electrical GSE to boost airport profitability and operational efficiency
dnata: Investing in GSE to reduce carbon emissions by 50 percent by 2030
More than 130 airports will be fully carbon-neutral by 2030
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Airports in the region are investing hundreds of millions of dollars to enhance their iconic infrastructures and state-of-the-art facilities, considered among the best in the world, particularly in the field of acquiring electrical Ground Support Equipment (GSE) as part of their sustainability agenda and to reduce carbon emissions.
The electrical GSE is one of the most prominent industries contributing to enhancing airport performance, increasing profitability, and enhancing their readiness to handle the significant growth expected in airline passenger numbers over the next few years.
Within this framework, the Airport Show, whose 24th edition will be held from May 6 to 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), will contribute to bringing the most advanced Ground Handling technologies under one roof to serve global airports seeking to enhance their services and profitability, and adhere to internationally recognized standards to reduce their carbon footprints.
The event is to be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. More than 130 international exhibitors from 22 countries are set to participate, showcasing the latest technological developments in Ground Handling services.
The B2B exhibition includes several pavilions, including one showcasing the most advanced ground handling equipment and services, supported by dnata, and two pavilions dedicated to airport technology and design. In addition, specialized conferences and workshops will be held, including the Global Airport Leaders Forum (GALF), the Airport Security Middle East Conference, and the Women in Aviation Middle East Conference.
Investing in cutting-edge technologies
Jafar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata, one of the leading exhibitors at the Airport Show, stated: 'We are proud to showcase some of our latest ground support equipment at this year's Airport Show. Our continued investment in advanced vehicles reflects our commitment to enhancing both operational efficiency and environmental performance across our global operations. Our fleet strategy focuses on phasing out diesel engines and transitioning to electric, hybrid, or hydrogen-powered equipment, where airport infrastructure allows. We're also working closely with alternative fuel suppliers and have recently converted our entire non-electric fleet in Dubai to run on biodiesel. These efforts support our pledge to reduce our carbon footprint by 50% by 2030, as part of our eight-year operations strategy.'
Last year at the Airport Show, dnata secured five-year global framework contracts for new Ground Support Equipment (GSE) with an estimated lifetime value of over US$ 210 million. The advanced vehicles will further enhance efficiency, safety and sustainability across dnata's global ground handling network which consists of over 90 airports across 16 countries. The contracts include a planned investment of over US$ 100 million in GSE for dnata's Dubai fleet, driven by sustained solid demand and projected further growth.
dnata currently operates a fleet of 2,500 motorised GSE at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum - Dubai World Central (DWC) airports, providing quality and safe services to over 190 airlines.
Adam Vaile, Executive Director for Commercial and Accounts Airports at Vanderlande, one of the exhibitors, says: 'Vanderlande has introduced Baggage 4.0 for tomorrow's highly automated, sustainable and predictable baggage operations. This solution extends the capabilities of conventional systems, delivering fully data-driven, intelligent and highly automated end-to-end baggage operations.'
The company will utilize the Airport Show to shed light on its latest technological developments, and the benefits of truly end-to-end passenger and baggage operations in a context where automation, digitalisation and sustainability take centre stage. Having been active for over 30 years in the Middle East, Vanderlande's stand will highlight its autonomous vehicle solutions with a FLEET Bag vehicle, among other products.
Iftekhar Ahmed, General Manager of Sales (UAE and GCC) at Eternity Technologies stated that the company is participating to strengthen its presence in the GSE sector by showcasing its advanced battery solutions, and to demonstrate how energy solutions enhance efficiency, sustainability, and reliability for airside ground operations. It will be showcasing its Quasar Motive Power Range, manufactured in the UAE, which incorporates Carbon Nanotube Technology (CNT) for enhanced performance.
The exhibition is an opportunity to boost airport profitability and enhance their readiness. Mai Ismail, Events Director at RX Global, which organizes more than 350 international events in 25 countries, including the Airport Show, said: 'The pursuit of faster turnaround times, improved safety standards, and compliance with environmental regulations has led to the adoption of innovative and cost-effective Ground Handling equipment solutions.'
She added: 'Airport operators are investing in battery-powered vehicles to reduce emissions and limit their carbon footprints. Electric ground handling equipment has revolutionized the way ground operations operate by providing cleaner, more energy-efficient technology. With advances in electrical technology and declining battery costs, airports are expected to adopt electric equipment on a large scale, indicating significant growth for this market.'
Experts say electric Ground Handling equipment is more fuel-efficient than diesel-powered equipment and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Cloud-based electric equipment management systems help airports track and manage their ground support equipment operations.
In 2022, IATA called for a transition to improved electrical equipment to improve cost efficiency and safety. In June 2024, dnata launched an initiative to accelerate the adoption of improved equipment, recognizing ground handlers who are leading the modernization of their fleets through the Enhanced Recognition Program.
More than 130 airports worldwide have committed to fully decarbonize their emissions by 2030. The electric Ground Handling services market is expected to grow from 38,592 units in 2024 to 44,761 units by 2029. The global market size for this industry is expected to reach US$17.44 billion by 2032.
About RX:
RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.
About RELX
RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.
*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors
For media enquiries, please contact:
Ghassan Amhaz
Media Consultant
Nadd Al Shiba PR & Event Management
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Al Etihad
an hour ago
- Al Etihad
Mohammed bin Rashid lays foundation stone for Dubai Metro Blue Line
9 June 2025 17:12 DUBAI (ALETIHAD)His Highness 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, 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 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 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 arriving at the venue of the ceremony, His Highness was welcomed by His Excellency 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. Exceptional Growth His Highness 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 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 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 Highness 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 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. One Million People His Highness 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 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 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. Iconic Station His Highness paused at the imposing large-scale model of the iconic Emaar Properties Station, where he was briefed by His Excellency 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 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 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. Interior Design 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 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 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. Naming Rights 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 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 World's Best City 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 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) 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. Key Elements of the Blue Line 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 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 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. Fifth Strategic Project 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 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 the fleet will expand from 140 to 168 trains, including 157 for the Dubai Metro and 11 for the Dubai Tram. Setting New Benchmarks 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. 50,000 University Students 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 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. Economic Return 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 (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 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. Backbone of Transportation System 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 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 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. Global Standing 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.


Gulf Today
2 hours ago
- Gulf Today
DEWA adds 800MW of clean energy production capacity to its energy mix in 2025
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), announced that the total production capacity of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park has increased to 3,860 megawatts (MW), using photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies. Since the beginning of this year, DEWA has added 800MW from the sixth phase of the solar park, bringing clean energy's share to approximately 21.5% of its total production capacity. 'Our strategies and action plans are inspired by the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable green economy and enhance Dubai's position as a leading global hub for clean and renewable energy. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is our key project to realise this vision and achieve the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, which aim to provide 100% of the emirate's energy production capacity from clean sources by 2050. By 2030, the solar park's production capacity will reach 7,260MW, with clean energy making up 34% of DEWA's energy mix. This will reduce approximately eight million tonnes of carbon emissions annually,' said Al Tayer. The first phase of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, with a capacity of 13MW using PV solar panels, was commissioned in October 2013. In March 2017, the second phase, with a capacity of 200MW, was inaugurated. It also uses PV technology and was the first solar energy project of its kind in the region based on the independent power producer (IPP) model. In November 2020, the third phase of the solar park was inaugurated with a capacity of 800MW. This phase, also using PV technology, was the first in the Middle East and North Africa to use single-axis solar tracking to enhance energy generation. In December 2023, the fourth phase of the solar park was inaugurated with a total capacity of 950MW, combining CSP and PV panels. It uses three hybrid technologies to produce clean energy: 600MW from a parabolic basin complex, 100MW from a solar power tower and 250MW from PV solar panels. In June 2023, the fifth phase, with a capacity of 900MW, was inaugurated using photovoltaic panels. DEWA is currently working to complete the sixth phase of the solar park, with a capacity of 1,800MW using PV panels. DEWA has invited international developers to participate in the implementation of the seventh phase of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which will have a capacity of 1,600MW. This phase, which is expandable to 2,000MW, will utilise PV solar panels and a battery energy storage system with a capacity of 1,000MW for six hours, providing a total storage capacity of 6,000 megawatt-hours. This will make it one of the world's largest solar-plus-storage projects. The phase will be implemented under the IPP model. WAM


Hi Dubai
2 hours ago
- Hi Dubai
Mohammed bin Rashid Launches Dubai Metro Blue Line to Transform Urban Mobility
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has officially laid the foundation stone for the Dubai Metro Blue Line, marking a major leap forward in the emirate's transportation infrastructure. Spanning 30 kilometres with 14 new stations, the Blue Line is set to connect nine key districts and serve over one million residents by 2040. Expanding Dubai's Rail Network The Blue Line will link the existing Green and Red Lines through interchange stations at Al Jaddaf, Al Rashidiya, and International City 1. It will stretch from Creek Station to Centrepoint Station, covering strategic areas including Mirdif, Al Warqa, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Academic City. The project also features the first-ever metro viaduct crossing Dubai Creek and the largest underground interchange station in the network. Once complete, Dubai's rail system will extend to 131 kilometres, with 78 stations and 168 trains, cementing the metro's role as the backbone of the city's mass transit system. A Record-Breaking Iconic Station Among the Blue Line's standout features is the Emaar Properties Station in Dubai Creek Harbour. Designed by global architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the 74-metre-tall structure will be the world's highest metro station. Covering 11,000 square metres, it will accommodate up to 160,000 passengers daily and is expected to see 70,000 daily users by 2040. The station's design merges luxury and function, featuring materials like Jura limestone, bronze panels, and granite flooring. Natural light, elegant spatial design, and sustainable architecture embody Dubai's vision of future-ready infrastructure. Driving Sustainability and Economic Growth The Blue Line supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, reinforcing goals such as reduced traffic congestion, increased land value near stations, and enhanced public mobility. According to RTA projections, the line will generate over AED 56.5 billion in total economic, environmental, and social benefits by 2040, with a benefit-cost ratio of 2.60. It will also help reduce traffic congestion by 20% in areas it serves and support Dubai's "20-minute city" vision, ensuring that essential services are within a short commute for residents. The Blue Line is designed to serve rapidly growing communities and economic hubs. It will provide direct metro access to Dubai International Airport and nine major areas, including Dubai Festival City, International City, and Academic City—which is projected to accommodate over 50,000 university students by 2029. The project also ensures seamless multimodal connectivity with dedicated bus bays, bike and e-scooter parking, and facilities for people of determination. A New Era in Public Transport Since its inauguration in 2009, the Dubai Metro has transported over 2.5 billion passengers and currently averages 900,000 daily riders. With the addition of the Blue Line, the network's capacity will exceed 850,000 passengers per day. Daily ridership on the Blue Line alone is expected to hit 200,000 by 2030 and 320,000 by 2040. The Blue Line is the fifth strategic addition to Dubai's transit system, following the Red and Green Lines, the Dubai Tram, and Route 2020. It represents a critical step toward making Dubai the world's best city to live in—an ambition firmly rooted in sustainable development and smart urban planning. News Source: Dubai Media Office