Latest news with #Skidmore
Miami Herald
3 hours ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
New Images Show How World's Tallest Metro Station Will Look
Dubai, known for the world's tallest building among its iconic skyscrapers, is now set to have the world's tallest metro station, as the United Arab Emirates positions itself as a leading force in the Middle East's modernization. The planned station on a new metro line is another example of how Gulf countries are competing with megaprojects aimed at attracting foreign investment as they seek to diversify economies that have historically relied on oil exports. The UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have all prioritized American investment in key infrastructure projects, including business deals with the family of U.S. President Donald Trump, with whom they have forged strong alliances during his second presidential term through pledging billions of investments and arms purchase-and a gift plane. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, laid the foundation stone for the Dubai Metro Blue Line and approved the design of the Emaar Properties Station, which will rise 74 meters-making it the highest metro station globally. The station covers about 11,000 square meters, and is expected to accommodate up to 160,000 passengers, with daily ridership projected at over 70,000 by 2040, according to the Dubai government's media office. The station was designed by American company Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), also behind the city's landmark Burj Khalifa, as well as the Olympic Tower in New York, and the Sears Tower in Chicago. In 2024, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced a consortium of two Turkish and one Chinese company to develop the Dubai Metro Blue Line, which spans 18 miles and includes 14 stations. Last month, the Walt Disney Company and Miral announced a deal Wednesday to create a new Disney Park resort in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi. Dubai Government Media Office: "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 travelers, with a carefully planned lighting strategy that enhances its architectural character and reaffirms its role as a gateway to Dubai's bright future." Mattar al-Tayer, Director General of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) said in 2024: "Additionally, the Blue Line will feature International City (1), the largest underground interchange station in the metro network. Covering over 44,000 square meters, this station will have the capacity to handle 350,000 passengers daily, significantly enhancing connectivity across the metro system." The project is set to be officially inaugurated in September 2029. Related Articles Images Show Trump Tower Dubai Planned for 2031Trump Family's Business Ties to the Middle East ExplainedI Was a Stripper for Over a Decade-Then I Discovered a MonasteryTrump's Middle East Business Surge Prompts Conflict of Interest Attacks 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
India.com
4 hours ago
- Business
- India.com
World's highest metro station to be built at a height of 74 meter in this city, not Delhi, Beijing, New York, London, Tokyo, name is...
World's highest metro station to be built at a height of 74 meter in this city, not Delhi, Beijing, New York, London, Tokyo, name is... World's highest metro station: High rise buildings, beautiful shopping complexes – Dubai is well known for its extravagant lifestyle. However, it is set to claim another world record, this time in its public transportation network. The foundation stone for this ambitious infrastructure project was recently laid by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai who also approved the architectural design of the flagship Emaar Properties Station, which will be the tallest metro station in the world. The city is soon going to have world's highest metro station, standing at an impressive 74 metres, as part of the newly unveiled Dubai Metro Blue Line. It is designed by the globally acclaimed American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) who also has iconic structures like the Burj Khalifa, Sears Tower in Chicago, and the Olympic Tower in New York to his credit. Its feature Spanning an area of approximately 11,000 square metres, the Emaar Properties Station can accommodate a staggering 160,000 passengers per day. The station is designed to withstand the emirate's operational and climatic demands, reinforcing its long-term sustainability and resilience. The structure will be made up of Jura limestone, bronze metal wall panels, and granite flooring. The materials were carefully selected for durability, environmental efficiency, and cultural resonance—blending stone, bronze, and glass to embody Dubai's identity. Once complete, the Dubai Metro Blue Line will significantly extend the emirate's transit system, increasing the total length of the rail network to 131 km, and the number of stations to 78, served by 168 trains (including 11 tram trains and 157 metro trains).
Time of India
8 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Dubai Metro blue line: What you need to know about route, travel time, and capacity
Standing 74 metres tall, Dubai's Emaar Properties Station on the new Blue Line features a luxurious design by US-based architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)/ Image: DXBMediaOffice A Landmark Beginning: Foundation Laid by Dubai's Ruler On June 9, 2025, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, officially laid the foundation stone for the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a major leap in the city's urban transit development. Set to begin operations on September 9, 2029, the launch will mark exactly 20 years since Dubai Metro's first Red and Green Lines opened. — DXBMediaOffice (@DXBMediaOffice) The Blue Line, part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, is designed to integrate with existing Red and Green Lines and enable seamless travel across the emirate, with travel times of just 10 to 25 minutes across key locations. This bold initiative also supports the "20-minute city" vision, aiming for 80% of residents' daily needs to be within a 20-minute commute. The Route: 14 Stations Across Strategic Zones The Blue Line will stretch 30km, divided into two main routes and 14 stations, 9 elevated and 5 underground. First Route (21km, 10 Stations) Start Point: Green Line's Creek Station Travels through: Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Ras Al Khor Features: Underground interchange at International City 1 Extends to: International City 2, 3 → Dubai Silicon Oasis → Dubai International Academic City (final stop) Second Route (9km, 4 Stations) Start Point: Red Line's Centrepoint Station (Rashidiya) Passes through: Mirdif, Al Warqa End Point: Joins the first route at International City 1 The line will also cross the Dubai Creek via a 1,300-metre-long viaduct, offering passengers iconic skyline views — including Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Road's architectural landmarks. Key Features: From Design Innovation to World Records Record-Breaking Infrastructure The first station under construction at Dubai Creek Harbour, named Emaar Station after Emaar Properties secured a 10-year naming rights deal, will be the tallest metro station in the world, at 74 metres (242 feet). Architectural Design Conceived by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the globally acclaimed architects of Burj Khalifa. Designed with glass ceilings, towering walls, stone-metal fusion, and earthy tones that blend Dubai's heritage and modernity. Elevated station exteriors are inspired by seashells, while interiors follow seven themes: Heritage, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Sustainability and Accessibility All stations will include: Parking spaces Electric vehicle charging points Taxi stands Drop-off/pick-up zones Accessible facilities for People of Determination Electric scooter racks The Blue Line is Dubai's first transport project to fully comply with green building standards, achieving Platinum Category certification. Connectivity and Commuter Impact Direct Access to Dubai International Airport The Blue Line will provide direct airport connectivity to nine vital residential and commercial hubs, cutting commute times drastically. Serving Over 50,000 Students Dubai International Academic City, home to tens of thousands of students, is a critical stop. By 2029, the student population is expected to exceed 50,000, positioning the Blue Line as a crucial enabler for the education sector. Daily Commuter Capacity Projected ridership: 2030: 200,000 passengers/day 2040: 320,000 passengers/day Maximum capacity: Over 850,000 passengers/day By completion, Dubai's total metro network will span 131km, include 78 stations, and operate 168 trains. Economic and Environmental Impact Massive Financial Benefits The Blue Line is expected to generate a Dh56.5 billion return in total benefits by 2040. The benefit-cost ratio stands at 2.60, meaning for every dirham spent, the city will gain Dh2.60 in returns. Gains include reduced traffic congestion by as much as 20%, lower carbon emissions, fuel/time savings, and better overall urban efficiency. Property Appreciation Land and property values around metro stations are projected to increase by up to 25%, as per planning authorities. What's Next? With construction underway at Dubai Creek Harbour and barricades marking out work zones, attention will soon turn to the naming rights of other stations. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will continue to provide updates, including detailed maps and further integrations with buses, taxis, and cycling networks. Summary of Major Features Feature Details Total Line Length 30km (21km + 9km) Total Stations 14 (9 elevated, 5 underground) Highest Station Emaar Station (74m) Opening Date September 9, 2029 Max Daily Capacity 850,000 passengers Academic City Ridership 50,000+ students by 2029 Environmental Rating Platinum Green Building Certification Projected Economic Return Dh56.5 billion by 2040 Viaduct Over Creek 1,300m connecting Green and Blue Lines
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
July 4 band concert in need of community support
Jun. 9—MORGANTOWN — For nearly half a century, a July 4 tradition has resonated through Morgantown—not the crackle of fireworks, but the sounds of a community band playing patriotic music. However, the future of the Morgantown Municipal Band's annual concert at the WVU Creative Arts Center is at risk due to lack of funding. Since the beginning, in 1978, the band has been a staple for the city's celebrations, bringing crowds of all ages. "People really value it. It's something that's gone on for so long, " said longtime flutist and Morgantown resident Dorothy Skidmore, who has played in the band for more tan 30 years. "It's not just a concert, but a tribute to the founding of our country." This year, the concert's survival depends on raising a remaining $2, 090. Sponsorships and donations that used to come from a few benefactors have faded. "The larger sums of money just aren't there anymore. It's been reduced to piecemeal donations, " Skidmore said. "The musicians are only paid $80, and we rehearse the day before. It's not a lot, but it's still work. People shouldn't be expected to play for free." Despite their minimal pay, most musicians in the band perform out of a passion for the music and the meaning behind it. "I think I'd do it without being paid, because I love doing it, " Skidmore added. "But there are people who feel strongly that this music deserves the same support that goes to other concerts in town, especially for a national holiday like this." The concert has moved over the years, originally held downtown before shifting to the Amphitheater, and later to the shaded area outside the WVU Creative Arts Center. The band has been conducted by C.B. Wilson for more than 30 years. "He always brought this sense of reverence to the concert, " Skidmore said. "He'd have veterans in the crowd stand when their military branch's anthem played, like 'Anchors Aweigh' for the Navy. It made the audience feel like they were part of something greater." Efforts to secure support and sponsors have come up short, while larger groups are not having such issues, she said. "Those groups get paid thousands, and here we are struggling to find $2, 000. It's surprising because this concert is about honoring our veterans and the founding of our country. It should be something people are proud to support, " Skidmore said. The band is hoping to have enough funds raised by June 15. If the goal is not met, Morgantown may experience the first Independence Day in nearly five decades without this concert. "This isn't just music. It's a celebration of freedom, of history, of community. And it would be heartbreaking to let that fade, " she said. Checks may be written to the Monongalia Symphony Orchestra, with the Morgantown Municipal Band cited on the "for " line and sent to 433 Western Ave., Morgantown, WV 26505. Questions may be directed to Elaine Riffle at 304-288-2034.
Sharjah 24
20 hours ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Mohammed bin Rashid lays foundation stone for Metro Blue Line
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. Architectural highlights 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), known for landmarks like the Burj Khalifa. Integration into urban environment 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, it can accommodate up to 160,000 passengers per day, with daily users expected to exceed 70,000 by 2040. Expansion of the rail network 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. Ceremony highlights Upon arriving at the ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid was welcomed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General of the Roads and Transport Authority. He viewed a historical gallery showcasing the vision of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum for a metro line connecting Dubai districts. Growth in ridership The Dubai Metro has transported over 2.527 billion passengers since its launch on 9/9/2009. In 2024, the Metro recorded a daily average of 900,000 passengers, with ridership growing steadily over the years. Future projections According to studies, the number of Dubai Metro passengers is expected to exceed 300 million in 2026 and reach 320 million by 2031. Station developments The service began in 2009 with 10 stations, expanding to 64 by 2021. The upcoming Blue Line will add 14 new stations, bringing the total to 78. Train fleet expansion The number of trains has increased from 16 at launch in 2009 to a projected 168 with the Blue Line completion, enhancing capacity and efficiency. Design evolution The exterior design of the elevated stations is inspired by seashells, while the interior reflects seven thematic models: Heritage, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Blue line connectivity The Blue Line links the Green Line at Creek Station and the Red Line at Centrepoint Station, serving residential and academic zones, with an estimated population of one million by 2040. Key routes of the Blue Line Al Tayer detailed the two main routes of the Blue Line, covering significant areas and enhancing connectivity. Economic impact The Blue Line project aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, projected to yield substantial economic benefits by 2040. Sustainability considerations The project incorporates sustainable design principles, including green building standards, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and enhance property values. Conclusion The Dubai Metro Blue Line marks a significant milestone in the city's transportation network, enhancing mobility and supporting the goal of making Dubai the world's best city to live in.
