Latest News from Time Out Dubai
Time Out Dubai
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Eid dining deals: Where to eat over Eid al Adha break
Eid Al Adha celebrations are due to begin next week, meaning we're also about to enjoy a four-day long weekend. With more days away from our desks, there are plenty of cool Dubai restaurants offering great brunches, lunches and dinners. With some fantastic value offers available, it's a good time to get out and about and not worry about cooking at home. All the places to eat over Eid Al Adha in Dubai (and the Eid dining deals to know) Indikaya (Credit: Supplied) Created by chef Hemant Oberoi, the Indian restaurant has released a selection of curated set menus to celebrate Eid Al Adha. Expect to dig into Hyderabadi chicken biryani, mutton galouti and a rarrah methi champ, each of which packs a punch. For all the veggies, you'll be just as pleased with a selection of paneer kebabs and birbali that taste just as good. Finishing with a sweet anjeer shahi tukra and fresh coffee ki phirni, this is definitely a meal for a celebration. Dhs220. Open daily noon-11.30pm. Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, @indikayadubai (054 279 3647). JW Kitchen (Credit: Supplied) The Oceanic brunch is getting a special public holiday makeover, so expect to spend your Saturday browsing the all-you-can-eat buffet. Expect to pile your plate high with fresh seafood, premium cuts and international favourites, before washing it all down with a free-flowing beverage (or two). Paired with a little live entertainment, a trip to the Dubai Marina restaurant isn't complete without a visit to the dessert stand (trust us). Dhs290 (soft beverages), Dhs390 (house beverages), Dhs490 (bubbly). Sat Jun 7, 1pm-4pm. JW Marriott Hotel Marina, Dubai Marina, (04 436 7777). Koko Bay Head down to Koko Bay for sunset, and enjoy the Sound of Bali dinner experience, complete with three themed courses, free-flowing drinks and live entertainment surrounded by a flame-lit beachfront. Dhs295. Thu 7pm-11pm. West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, (04 572 3444). Mosaico Lobby Lounge (Credit: Supplied) For something a little fancy, swan into the lounge at Palazzo Versace for a special Eid Al Adha high tea. Running from Friday June 6 to Sunday June 8, a live musician will perform each day, from a violinist to a saxophonist. Make your way through the Eid cookies and cake stand, before picking something from the live chebab station. Dhs378 (two people). June 6-8, 10.30am-7pm. Palazzo Versace, Al Jaddaf, (04 556 8888). Mr Toad's Credit: Mr Toad's The gastropub is offering up brunch for four for the price of three on Saturday June 7 at select locations around the city. If you're thinking of brunching in Silicon Oasis, DIP or Al Jaddaf, you can enjoy a sizzling selection of dishes and free flowing drinks for as little as Dhs129. Dhs129 (soft beverages), Dhs249 (house beverages), Dhs299 (premium beverages). Sat Jul 7, 1pm-4pm. Various locations, The Beam Spend the last day of the Eid Al Adha break enjoying a leisurely lunch at The Beam for its Sunday brunch. Dig into sharing starters while live entertainment lifts the room, then it's time for some comforting European mains and of course, free-flowing drinks to pair with it. Dhs295 (soft beverages), Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs495 (premium sparkling), Dhs145 (kids aged 5-12). Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa, Dubai Marina, (04 399 5555). Walima (Credit: Supplied) The buffet-style restaurant at the Grand Mercure Dubai City is throwing quite the feast on Friday June 6, where you can fill your plate for only Dhs175. Fill up on fresh seafood, hot and cold mezze, freshly cooked pasta and hot shawarmas cut from the grill in front of you. Dhs175 (adult), Dhs45 (kids aged 6-12). Fri Jun 6, 1.30pm-4.30pm. Grand Mercure Dubai City, grand-mercure-dubai-city (052 267 0398). Eid Al Adha 2025 Eid Al Adha itinerary: All the fun things to do this long weekend Where to go and what to see over the break 20 amazing things to do in Dubai in June This month is going to be a scorcher 51 brilliant family days out in the UAE For you and the little ones
Time Out Dubai
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
The 3 Day Super Sale is back this weekend
One of Dubai's biggest shopping weekends of the year is set to return. The 3 Day Super Sale, offering up to 90 percent off top brands across the city, is set to take place from Friday May 30 until Sunday June 1. Ahead of the Eid Al Adha break, it's a great chance to grab a bargain before the holiday. The sale, available at more than 17 retail destinations, will offer discounts on more than 500 brands at over 2,500 outlets across the three days. Key participating malls include Dubai Festival City Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Nal Al Sheba Mall and Nakheel Mall. The sale, organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, will offer unbeatable bargains from fashion and beauty to electronics, lifestyle, homeware and more. Brands included in the sale are Marks and Spencer, LEGO, Sephora and many, many more. (Credit: Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishments) Shoppers at Dubai Festival City will have the chance to win a Dhs20,000 gift card when they spend Dhs300 or more. Every Dhs300 spent equals one entry into the Spend and Win promotion throughout the 3 Day Super Sale weekend. Some loyalty programmes will help you save even more on the city's most exciting deals. Rewards, points and exclusive perks can be unlocked with BLUE Rewards, SHARE, Amber, Tickit, AURA, Pivilege Plus and Skywards Everyday. These programmes can unlock everything from cashback and future discounts to air miles. If you can't make it to the mall for the 3 Day Super Sale, then you'll have plenty of other chances during the Dubai Summer Surprises season. This year's DSS will see sales anchored around three distinct shopping windows – Summer Holiday Offers, the Great Dubai Summer Sale and Back to School. These sales will bring plenty of new offers, exclusive promotions and big mall activations to the city. In addition to these big sales periods, there will be plenty of big concerts coming to Dubai throughout the summer. More Dubai news The countries with the most public holidays for 2025 — and how Dubai compares One country has 35 public holidays this year Annual leave in Dubai: The UAE laws explained Know your rights UAE public holidays 2026: All the predicted days off next year revealed Including when we can expect a six-day weekend
Time Out Dubai
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
23 brilliant restaurants and bars in JLT that you need on your radar
JLT is home to loads of wonderful homegrown restaurants, but there are also a few decent bars in the area if you're looking for a post-work drink, ladies' night or catch up with your mates. Selected from Time Out Dubai's best restaurants, which means you know they've been tried and tested – anonymously and independently. Here are the best restaurants in JLT Asian Street by Thai Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Asian Street by Thai. This teeny, tiny spot in JLT's Cluster F is perched right next door to the popular budget spot San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles, making the area quite the culinary corner. With around 20 seats you need to time it right to make sure you can get a space and once settled in you'll be delighted with the pocket-friendly, totally authentic, fuss-free Thai cuisine. Spring rolls, satay, green curries, pad Thai, pad kra pao and Thai omelette are among the classics here and they're all done expertly. One of the best Thai restaurants in Dubai, and one of the best value, too. Unlicensed. Cluster F, JLT, @asianstreetbythai (04 391 8828). Check out our full Asian Street by Thai review here Bait Maryam Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Bait Maryam. A tribute to chef Salam Dakkak's late mother Maryam, cosy Palestinian restaurant Bait Maryam is nestled in a corner of JLT boasting homely flavours and furnishings. Inside it feels like you're stepping into someone's home – and in essence, you are, with trinkets and booked all owned by Maryam found about the restaurant. Boasting Middle Eastern comfort food, try silky smooth hummus, muhammara and labneh dipped up with fresh bread, as well as pasta with yoghurt, shakshouka, soujouk, moussaka and kibbeh. There's a wide selection of moreish manakish, plus hearty grills, too. Unlicensed. Cluster D, JLT, (054 704 4774). Check out our full Bait Maryam review here Café Isan Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Café Isan. The winner of Time Out Dubai's Best Thai Restaurant for several years running, Café Isan really is the most authentic, fun and friendly spot to enjoy Thai food in Dubai. Found in JLT, the mismatched plastic furniture, Thai market-style bar, pop tunes and affordable prices make it the best Thai restaurant in Dubai, while the food is utterly delicious. Coming from the Isan region of Thailand, expect punchy flavours (Thai spicy really means spicy) with curries, stir-fries, noodles and more. Take a seat out on the large terrace in winter – but be sure to book ahead, the city's Thai food fans love it as much as we do. Licensed. Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, (058 529 1003). Check out our full Café Isan review here Canary Club Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Canary Club. This cool Miami-style spot from the team behind The MAINE, Canary Club has retro vibes and a US-inspired menu. Found in Banyan Tree Residences in JLT, the décor is cool and there's a large bar area. The menu ranges from sushi to grills and the short-rib pizza is a dish not to be missed. Popular for its ladies' night as well as its standalone bar, Tiki Club, there are plenty of reasons to shimmy down to Canary Club for your next night out. Licensed. Banyan Tree Residences, JLT, (04 584 5999). Check out our full Canary Club review here Couqley Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Couqley This little French eatery and bar is quintessentially Parisian, with charm, class and a welcoming atmosphere. There's an impressive range of premium drinks and the bar staff are knowledgeable. Chuck a solid playlist of tunes into the mix, and it's hard to go wrong at this petite French haunt in JLT. Good service, good food, good drinks – what's not to like? Licensed. Cluster A, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (04 514 9339). Check out our full Couqley review here Dhaba Lane Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Dhaba Lane A budget, Indian street food-style eatery in JLT, Dhaba Lane has been delighting savvy diners with its moreish curries since 2017. Serving traditional dishes from Punjab to Delhi, Calcutta and beyond, there are plenty of regional flavours to try here. It serves traditional plates with a modern twist, all at prices that won't make your eyes water. The interiors are cute and the spices are punchy, check out curries, chaat, biryanis and beyond. Open daily, noon-3.30pm, 6.30pm-midnight. Unlicensed. Cluster D, JLT, dhaba-lane (054 999 4251). Franky's Pizzeria Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Franky's Pizzeria The Park in JLT is one trendy place to visit – being home to cool Asian street food eatery Hawkerboi and café Splendour Fields. And now you'll also find Franky in Florence here – one of the best pizzerias in Dubai, and one of the newest. Neapolitan-style pizzas come adorned with toppings including cavallo nero, black truffle and mushroom, mussels and prawns, 'broken meatball' or classic stracciatella. The interiors are decked out with foliage and artwork, while the views from this rooftop spot are also superb. Order a drink and enjoy a slice at sunset. Licensed. The Park, JLT, @frankyspizzeria (050 427 5217). Check out our full Franky's Pizzeria review here Fusion Ceviche Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Fusion Ceviche. A petite, unassuming Peruvian spot in JLT serves absolutely brilliant ceviche. With super-fresh fish and packed full of flavour (and a fair amount of heat) it's one of the best Latin American restaurants in Dubai and a terrific place to delve into Peruvian food. With only a handful of tables, bag a spot at the counter and go with the chef's recommendations for the most authentic experience. The Peruvian juices are worth a try too. A laid-back restaurant that's a top one to check out if you're looking for something a little more off the radar. Unlicensed. Cluster Q, JLT, @fusionceviche (04 449 6292). Check out our full Fusion Ceviche review here Good Burger at Maiz Tacos Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Good Burger. Part of popular Mexican joint Maiz Tacos, Good Burger opened in 2020 and quickly found a following of burger fans in JLT. Promising to use only the freshest of premium ingredients, it's a small spot that packs a punch when it comes to quality. Get stuck into the original Good Burger if you're keeping things simple, or ramp it up a notch with the mushroom and Gruyère version. If you're a fan of Maiz Tacos, try the Birria Burger for a palate-popping combo of the two concepts. Unlicensed. Cluster Y, JLT, @goodburgerdxb (04 514 4712). Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Hanoi Naturally If you're after authentic Vietnamese cuisine in an unassuming location, Hanoi Naturally is the one for you. Tucked away in the budget eatery haven that is JLT, this cute little spot serves up some of the tastiest Vietnamese grub in town. Proudly using clean cooking techniques and fresh, healthy ingredients, the menu is full of flavour-packed plates such as fragrant prawn summer rolls and zingy papaya salad, as well as truly slurpable pho with everything from brisket to chicken, veggie to prawn. For traditional, healthy dishes on a budget, this is one of the best Asian restaurants in Dubai. Unlicensed. Cluster C, JLT, (04 431 3099). Check out our full Hanoi Naturally review here Hawkerboi Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Hawkerboi. A relative newcomer to the Asian dining scene in Dubai, Hawkerboi can be found at The Park in JLT. Offering cool, moody date night vibes with an interesting list of mixed drinks, Hawkerboi started life as a supper club, before setting up in its permanent location in April 2023. Now one of the best Asian restaurants in Dubai – and Time Out Dubai's Casual Restaurant of the Year for 2024 – Hawerboi is always buzzing. The open kitchen serves street food-style plates, think chicken satay, crispy fried squid, duck gyoza and banana blossom salad, as well as perfectly roast meat, flavoursome curries and palate-popping stir-fries. There's a tasting menu – which comes in at under Dhs400 for nine courses – if you want to explore different dishes, too. Licensed. The Park, JLT, @ (505 427 5217). Check out our full Hawkerboi review here Jamie Oliver's Pizzeria Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Jamie Oliver's Pizzeria. As to be expected from a pizzeria behind one of the world's most famous chefs, Jamie Oliver's makes the kind of pizza you'll crave for no reason at all. It could be a random Tuesday afternoon, and those bold simple flavours that sit atop traditional doughy bases will pop straight into your head. Popular with a steady stream of office workers who have claimed this JLT spot as their favourite lunch location, book ahead to avoid disappointment. Unlicensed. Cluster R, JLT, (04 874 7082). Check out our full Jamie Oliver's Pizzeria review here McGettigan's JLT Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: McGettigan's JLT One of the most popular Irish bars in the city, McGettigan's JLT pulls in the crowds day and night, thanks to its fun-loving vibe and cracking deals. Brunches, happy hours, roast dinners, ladies' nights, live music, comedy – you'll find it all at this longstanding pub. The terrace is a prime spot for the winter months having all the feels of a proper pub garden. The food menu is a solid selection of burgers, wings, flatbreads, sausage and mash et al, which will fill you up and keep you happy. voco Bonnington Dubai Cluster J, JLT, (04 356 0470). Check out our full McGettigan's JLT review here Mythos Kouzina & Grill Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Mythos Kouzina & Gril Despite facing new competition every year, Mythos remains the best Greek restaurant in Dubai, no question. A go-to if you want incredible Greek food, prepared expertly at a reasonable price, there is now a second, similarly excellent Mythos at C2 in City Walk, but it's the OG that holds our hearts. Found in JLT, this cute taverna-style spot has a friendly vibe, a petite terrace ideal for cooler months and a menu jam-packed with home-cooked favourites that you won't be able to get enough of. From creamy, garlicky tzatziki, to comforting, flavour-laden moussaka and gemista, a glorious baked feta and an unmissable mixed grill platter (those lamb chops are outstanding), this is one you'll be returning to time and again – we guarantee it. Licensed. Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, (04 399 8166). Check out our full Mythos Kouzina & Grill review here Pickl Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Pickl Everyone's heard of Pickl – and with good reason, it's a giant when it comes to the best burgers in Dubai. A multiple winner of the Best Burger Bar in Dubai award, you can look forward to a perfectly seared patty, smothered in special sauce and snuggled into a squishy potato bun. Not only are the beef versions lip-smackingly good, but Pickl's chicken sando has become the stuff of legend, so make sure you order one of each – you won't regret it. Morning, noon, night – there's never a wrong time to dig into a Pickl burger. Unlicensed. One JLT, JLT, (04 584 6859). Check out our full Pickl review here Pitfire Pizza Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Pitfire Pizza It's done it again. New York-Neapolitan-style pizzas are the order of the day here at Pitfire. Pizzas so loved that they can be found at Time Out Market Dubai, the original branch is nestled in JLT's Cluster D. Set up by a husband-and-wife team, the pizzas here are massive and come fully loaded – Pitfire doesn't skimp on the toppings. There's everything from traditional pepperoni and margherita to turkey ham and pineapple and even potato or dates, meaning whatever your jam you'll find it here. The crusts are puffy and blistered and Pitfire is still the best pizzeria in Dubai (and the only place for those compulsory garlic knots). Unlicensed. Cluster D, JLT, (800 748 3473). Check out our full Pitfire Pizza review here Saigon Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: Saigon. Don't be deceived by the laid-back atmosphere of this casual Vietnamese spot in JLT – chefs here are serious about authenticity, serving up the likes of crispy spring rolls, healthy salads and steaming bowls of pho and noodles in a tiny, no-frills restaurant that won't break the bank. Prioritising quality over quantity (trust us here, it's one of the best Asian restaurants in Dubai), it's popular with both locals and expats alike, who can't help but be drawn in by the inviting smells emanating from the kitchen. Unlicensed. Lake Terrace Tower, Cluster D, JLT, (04 576 4466). Check out our full Saigon review here San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles Best restaurants in JLT. Credit: San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles Having opened in JLT in 2023, tucked away in an unassuming corner of Cluster F, right next to Asian Street by Thai, San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles' popularity has rocketed into it claiming the title of the best budget restaurant in Dubai, hands down. Service is friendly and there's a concise menu of Northern Chinese classics that you don't want to miss. Serving affordable, authentic Shaanxi cuisine, the main order here is, as the name suggests, those deliciously moreish noodles – which you can watch the chefs pulling in the kitchen. The chicken wontons are a must-try too. In short, don't miss it – it's a mighty find in a low-key location. Unlicensed. Cluster F, JLT, @ (050 759 9584). Splendour Fields From the team behind Tom & Serg and Common Grounds, you know you're onto a good thing if you stop by Splendour Fields. Found at The Park in JLT – in the same building as Hawekerboi and Franky in Florence – there are super views over the lawns, which make for the ideal backdrop for your coffee break. With special home-brews and baked goods from Rise & Dawn Bakehouse, a croissant and coffee is elevated here. In the morning choose from plates such as ricotta hotcakes, mushroom and truffle benedict or smashed avo, while later in the day salads, burgers and mains like Aussie parma star. A cute new addition to JLT's café scene from a respected brand. Licensed. The Park, JLT, @splendourfields (056 603 0897). Check out our full Splendour Fields review here Tiki's Bar by Canary Club Found atop Canary Club in DIFC, this extension of the popular restaurant has proved particularly popular since it opened its doors at the end of last year, and it's got some brilliant bar food to thank. Those taco makis, skewers, rolls and pizzas taste even better washed down with creatively-named mixed drinks – the Tahitian Traveller is a Time Out Dubai favourite. Licensed. Inside Canary Club, Banyan Tree Residences, JLT, (04 584 5999). Check out our full Tiki's Bar review here The Little Bali Credit: The Little Bali Another cracking affordable eatery in JLT – for authentic Balinese cuisine there's nowhere better in Dubai than The Little Bali. With budget plates that are bursting with flavour, the menu is traditional with top choices such as ayam taliwang (grilled chicken with lalapan, rice and sambal taliwang) and ikan goreng (crispy tilapia in a choice of sauces). You can also find more unusual meats such as oxtail and camel on the menu too. Don't miss the nasi goreng and satay sampler platter for classics done well. Unlicensed. Cluster U, JLT, (04 554 8575). Check out our full The Little Bali review here ubk Forget happy hours, it's happy days at this cool and casual hangout. The venue serves up happy hour deals from opening time to last orders. Not only are there great offers to be had, but this is a top spot to catch a game or a live band with pals, enjoy decent-priced, hearty pub grub (including a recently introduced Beyond Burger or a massive hot dog) and soak up the sun from the spacious outdoor area. Licensed. Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Cluster A, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (04 438 0000). Check out our full ubk review here Vietnamese Foodies Vietnamese food has become a cornerstone cuisine in recent years, but if it's a no-nonsense venue, healthy cooking and wallet-friendly prices that really float your boat, you could do much worse than Vietnamese foodies. Home to steaming hot pho bowls that feature the legendary 14-hour simmered broth, this is the restaurant to go to for an unapologetically slap-up Asian meal in JLT. Unlicensed. Cluster D, JLT, (04 565 6088). Check out our full Vietnamese Foodies review here Need a reservation in the meantime? New restaurants in Dubai that you need to visit right now From casual eats to fine dining, there's bound to be a new venue you'll want to try Dubai's best restaurants: 85 incredible places to dine All the winners of the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 25 of the best restaurants in DIFC: Reservations you have to make now Tried, tested and highly rated restaurants to try in Dubai's financial district
Time Out Dubai
8 hours ago
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Dubai Metro Blue Line: Opening date, planned route, map and more
The Dubai Metro is set to get a huge upgrade. By 2029, the Dubai Metro Blue Line, an entirely new line, will join both the Red and Green Lines to expand the public transport offering across Dubai. Dubai's RTA has confirmed that work on the Dhs20.5 billion Dubai Metro Blue Line project is underway and will be up and running sooner than you think. When will Dubai Metro Blue Line open? The RTA revealed in December 2024 that the new Blue Line will start operating in 2029. The project is scheduled to be completed on the date of its 20th anniversary of operations Sunday September 9 2029. Once completed, it is expected to serve 200,000 passengers every day by 2030 with this number rising to 320,000 by 2040 as the Dubai population continues to grow. تستمر #هيئة_الطرق_و_المواصلات في تنفيذ مشاريع نوعية تسهم في تعزيز مكانة #دبي العالمية وتؤكد ريادتها في مجال تطوير البنى التحتية، حيث تستعرض في المعرض والمؤتمر العالمي للسكك الحديدية والنقل والبنية التحتية #جلوبال_ريل2024، مشروع الخط الأزرق لـ #مترو_دبي، الذي يحقق الربط والتكامل… — RTA (@rta_dubai) October 8, 2024 At the end of April 2025, H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, chaired the Blue Line Forum meeting, attended by Dubai Metro Blue Line stakeholders. Sharing the development on X, it was revealed how the meeting reviewed the latest developments and overall progress of the Blue Line Project. These regular meetings reflect RTA's commitment to informed decision-making at every stage of the project and ensure the project stays on schedule and is delivered as planned. At an RTA workshop, it was also revealed that the Dubai Metro Blue Line will cut traffic by 20 percent in nine neighbourhoods once built. H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, chaired the Blue Line Forum meeting, attended by the heads of the Dubai Metro Blue Line Project Consortium, and the supervising consultant. The meeting discussed the latest developments… — RTA (@rta_dubai) April 28, 2025 Dubai Metro Blue Line stations In July 2024, the RTA announced that the Dubai Metro will eventually more than double its number of stations operating in the city by 2040. The only project currently announced for this transformation of the public transport system is the Dubai Metro Blue Line. It will feature 14 stations, with nine above ground and five underground, and extend over 30km. It will serve nine vital areas of the city and connect with the Red Line at Centrepoint Station and the Green Line at Al Khor Station. These areas include Marsa, Dubai Creek, Festival City, International City, Al Rashidiya, Al Warqa, Mirdif, and urban areas such as Silicon Oasis, Academic City Dubai Metro plans will eventually more than double the current number of stations. (Credit: Government of Dubai) Despite work only beginning on the Dubai Metro Blue Line this year, RTA and Dubai Police have discussed the requirements of the project and what will ensure the safety of city residents. Speaking in February 2024, Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, RTA, announced that work had begun. He said: 'RTA is consistently expanding and upgrading the public transport network. '2024 is set to mark the commencement of the Dubai Metro Blue Line project, which will stretch over a total of 30km, with 15.5 km running underground and 14.5 km above ground. You might also like: New Dubai Metro Blue Line map: What the new route could look like 'The project encompasses 14 stations including three interchange stations, connecting key areas in Dubai to cope with the projected demographic growth of surrounding areas to one million people as per the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040. Dubai's #RTA announced that in 2023, the combined ridership of public transport and shared mobility, including Dubai Metro, Tram, buses, marine transport, shared mobility services, and taxis, reached around 702 million, up 13% from 2022's 621.4 million. The average daily… — RTA (@rta_dubai) February 18, 2024 'It also integrates with the Red and Green lines of the Metro, offering a direct link between Dubai International Airport and nine principal areas situated along its route. The journey time between these destinations is expected to vary from 10 to 25 minutes,' added Al Tayer. Plans for Dubai Metro Blue Line were first announced in November 2023 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. At the time, HH Sheikh Mohammed said: 'The Blue Line Route of the Dubai Metro… (will) cost 18 billion dirhams.' But this estimated cost has since risen to Dhs20.5 billion following the announcement, in December 2024, of a consortium of three major construction companies to build the project. Turkish firms MAPA and Limak, as well as Chinese construction company CRRC will form a consortium to build the project. HH Sheikh Mohammed also confirmed where the Blue Line will operate when the plans were first announced. He added: '[The Dubai Metro Blue Line] covers areas with a population of up to a million people such as Marsa, Dubai Creek, Festival City, International City, Al Rashidiya, Al Warqa, Mirdif, and urban areas such as Silicon Oasis, Academic City, and others. The new line will transport 320,000 new passengers daily.' The Dubai Metro map (Credit: Interestingly, and unlike the current Metro Lines, just over half of the Dubai Metro Blue Line will be underground and the remainder above ground. With hundreds of millions of riders on the Dubai Metro every year, the commencement of work on the Blue Line is bound to be exciting news for public transport users in Dubai. Currently, Green Line stations are in Bur Dubai and Deira in the old town. The Red Line connects the old city and airport to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and Expo 2020 in the south-west. More Dubai transport news Dubai reveals plans for quicker bus journeys More than 11,000 trips are made daily on city buses 6 wild public transport projects coming soon to Dubai From Elon Musk's underground tunnel to a trackless tram 57 major road projects coming to Dubai by 2027 — here's what to expect And how they'll improve your journey
Time Out Dubai
8 hours ago
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
flydubai adds 4 new European destinations to its network
Dreaming of your next big holiday? Us too. flydubai, the DXB-based carrier, has announced that four brand new destinations across Europe will be added to its network. The airline will start flying to the Moldovan capital of Chișinău and the Romanian university city of Iași from September of this year, before taking flight to the Latvian capital of Riga and the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius from December 2025. It means that travellers now have 135 destinations in 58 countries to choose from when flying with the airline. It's the first time that a UAE-based carrier will operate direct flights from Dubai to Iași, Riga and Vilnius. There will be two weekly flights to Chișinău from Terminal 2 of Dubai International Airport starting on Wednesday September 17. Famous for its historic white limestone buildings, unique architecture and sprawling natural parks, Chișinău is a great destination for those who want to travel off the beaten path. Chișinău (Credit: Canva) From Friday September 19, flydubai will fly twice per week to Iași. Romania's second-largest city is also one of its most historic and features stunning sites and charming neighbourhoods. And from Thursday December 11, flydubai will start operating three weekly flights to Vilnius. On the following day, it will start flying three times per week to Riga. Riga and Vilnius offer visitors the chance to discover their magnificent architecture and UNESCO World Heritage old towns. Emirates will codeshare on all four routes, offering passengers more options for connections. Riga (Credit: Canva) Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said that the new routes demonstrate the brand's commitment to flying to underserved markets. He said: 'The expansion of our network reflects our unwavering commitment to opening up underserved markets and stimulating free flows of trade and tourism, and we are pleased to see this happen with the launch of our latest destinations in Europe. 'Today, we have built a diverse network of more than 135 destinations, 75 percent of which are underserved routes from Dubai. 'With our new services to Eastern Europe and the Baltic region, we look forward to strengthening the UAE's trade and cultural links and supporting Dubai's position as an international aviation hub.' Jetting off soon? New Emirates flights from Dubai for 2025 Will you be jetting off soon? When is the next UAE public holiday? Your public holiday questions, answered Dubai flights: When will flydubai start operations in Al Maktoum International Airport? The budget airline will open at Al Maktoum International Airport sooner than you'd think
