Dubai Metro's Blue Line project has been awarded to a consortium of three leading international firms—Turkish companies Mapa and Limak, alongside Chinese company CRRC. The contract for the project’s construction totals AED 20.5 billion, reflecting a significant investment in Dubai’s expanding transport infrastructure.

Spanning 30 Kilometres with 14 Stations
The new line will stretch over 30 kilometres, featuring 14 stations and a fleet of 28 trains. The route includes 15.5 kilometres underground and 14.5 kilometres above ground, seamlessly integrating with the existing Red and Green Metro lines. It will connect Dubai International Airport with nine key urban areas, offering travel times ranging from 10 to 25 minutes.

Key destinations along the line include:

• Mirdif
• Al Warqa
• International City (Phases 1 and 2)
• Dubai Silicon Oasis
• Academic City
• Ras Al Khor Industrial Area
• Dubai Creek Harbour
• Dubai Festival City

Passenger Capacity: 320,000 by 2040
The Blue Line is expected to carry 200,000 passengers daily by 2030, with this figure projected to rise to 320,000 by 2040. During peak hours, the network will handle up to 46,000 passengers per hour in both directions, significantly easing congestion along its routes by up to 20%.

Construction Commences in 2024

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at the RTA, announced earlier this year that work on the Blue Line will begin in 2024. Speaking on the project, he said: “2024 will mark the start of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a transformative project that aligns with our ongoing efforts to expand and upgrade the public transport network. The line will integrate directly with existing metro lines, offering a swift and efficient transit option.”

Part of Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan
The Blue Line is a cornerstone of Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which envisions a ‘20-minute city’ where 80% of essential services are accessible within a 20-minute journey. This forward-thinking approach focuses on transit-oriented urban development to promote connectivity, sustainability, and inclusivity.

A Sleek, Futuristic Design
The upcoming Blue Line stations will feature a sleek, modern design distinct from the current Red and Green Line stations. The futuristic structures will include large, curved platforms enclosed in oval-shaped designs, complemented by symmetrical exit structures with smooth, modern aesthetics.

Increased Cost Reflects Expanded Vision
Originally estimated at AED 18 billion when first announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in November 2023, the project’s cost has risen to AED 20.5 billion. The increase follows the RTA’s selection of a consortium to deliver the ambitious construction plans.

Launch Coincides with Metro’s 20th Anniversary
The Blue Line’s inauguration on 9 September 2029 will mark the 20th anniversary of the Dubai Metro’s operational debut, underscoring Dubai’s commitment to innovation and excellence in public transport.