Dubai is set to enhance its public transportation system with the introduction of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a project officially approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. The announcement, made on the social media platform X, highlights the development of a 30-kilometre track, with a budget of Dh18 billion.
The Blue Line will be a significant addition to the city’s infrastructure, featuring 14 stations – seven elevated, five underground, including an interchange station, and two elevated transfer stations. This line will connect key areas, covering a population of up to one million, and will integrate with the existing Red and Green lines of Dubai Metro.
اعتمدنا بحمدالله أكبر مشروع جديد في قطاع النقل العام في دبي .. "مسار الخط الأزرق لمترو دبي " .. بطول 30 كم نصفه تحت الأرض بأعماق تصل ل70 متر .. وبتكلفة 18 مليار درهم .. ويغطي مناطق يصل سكانها مليون نسمة .. مثل مرسى خور دبي، وفيستيفال سيتي والمدينة العالمية والراشدية والورقاء… pic.twitter.com/ykKRZdjKvC
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) November 24, 2023
A notable aspect of the Blue Line is its substantial underground component, amounting to 15.5km of the total length. This feature aligns Dubai’s metro system with other major cities known for their subterranean transit networks, such as London, New York, and Paris.
The project, first discussed in 2006, is now gaining momentum with the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) beginning the process of contractor selection. The Blue Line will not only add to the city’s transport network but also bring advancements like driverless trains, a depot for up to 60 trains, and necessary infrastructure developments.
This expansion is part of the broader Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, aiming to position 55% of the population within 800 meters of a major public transport hub. The plan emphasizes mass transit, walking, cycling, and flexible transportation methods, aiming to reduce traffic and enhance environmental sustainability. Additionally, the 2040 project includes doubling green spaces and enhancing environmental sustainability, making Dubai a more connected and green city.