Dubai has officially broken ground on one of its most transformative infrastructure projects to date: the Blue Line Metro. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, led the ceremony that marked the beginning of construction on this strategic 30-kilometer extension of the city’s growing metro network.
Set to redefine urban mobility in the emirate, the Blue Line will add 14 stations and serve nine key residential and commercial areas expected to house over a million people by 2040. Among the most remarkable features of the project is the Emaar Properties Station—an architectural landmark that will become the tallest metro station in the world, standing at an impressive height of 74 meters.
A New Chapter in Dubai’s Metro Journey
The Blue Line will integrate seamlessly with the existing Red and Green Lines, offering three key interchange stations located in Al Jaddaf (Creek Station), Al Rashidiya (Centrepoint), and International City 1. For the first time in Dubai Metro’s history, the line will cross Dubai Creek via a 1.3-kilometer elevated bridge, offering passengers an iconic view of the city’s landscape.
This new route is expected to dramatically enhance public transit in Dubai. By 2040, daily ridership on the Blue Line is projected to reach 320,000 passengers. The line also strengthens Dubai’s vision of becoming a “20-minute city,” ensuring that over 80% of residents can access essential services within a short commute.
Emaar Station: A Symbol of Innovation and Elegance
The Emaar Properties Station, a centerpiece of the Blue Line, is not only the tallest in the world but also a design marvel. Inspired by the concept of a “gateway to the future,” the station features a striking façade, a central skylight that bathes the interior in natural light, and materials that blend heritage with modernity—including Jura limestone, bronze panels, and granite floors.
Its interior design reflects a sense of grandeur, with soaring walls, earthy tones, and sustainable finishes that evoke a sense of place and permanence. At night, the station transforms into an illuminated beacon, symbolizing Dubai’s continued commitment to progress and excellence.
This iconic station is expected to serve more than 70,000 daily users by 2040 and will support a total capacity of 160,000 passengers per day. It will also act as a commercial and visual hub for the surrounding Dubai Creek Harbour area, home to more than 40,000 residents.
Connecting Communities and Reducing Congestion
The Blue Line will link vital districts such as Mirdif, Al Warqa, Silicon Oasis, the Academic City, Ras Al Khor, and Festival City. It will also provide a direct 20-minute connection to Dubai International Airport, significantly easing transit for both residents and tourists.
The project is expected to reduce traffic congestion by 20% on the main routes it serves, in line with Dubai’s goals for a more sustainable and efficient public transport system. Additionally, the metro line is fully integrated with other modes of transport, including buses, taxis, bicycles, e-scooters, and facilities for people of determination.
Long-Term Vision and Economic Impact
The Blue Line is part of Dubai’s broader urban vision under the Dubai 2040 Urban Plan and Economic Agenda D33. It supports sustainable urban growth and reflects Dubai’s strategy to be the world’s best city to live and work in. Once completed, the new line will expand the total length of Dubai’s metro network to 131 kilometers, with 78 stations and 168 trains in operation.
With a projected benefit of over 56.5 billion dirhams by 2040, the Blue Line represents a high-value investment in the future of urban living. It combines cutting-edge transport systems with smart city planning, helping to reinforce Dubai’s position as a global leader in infrastructure innovation.
A Milestone for Dubai’s Future
As Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid noted during the launch ceremony, the Blue Line is more than just a new metro route—it is a continuation of Dubai’s journey to become the most advanced, livable, and connected city in the world. Since the opening of Dubai Metro in 2009, more than 2.5 billion people have used the network. With the addition of the Blue Line, the city is not only expanding its reach but also elevating the quality and ambition of its public transportation systems.
The Blue Line Metro is a promise to future generations—built on vision, sustainability, and the belief that world-class infrastructure is essential to a thriving, inclusive city.
