Sheikh Mohammed inaugurates tunnelling for Dubai Metro Blue Line

Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on Sunday, May 3, inaugurated tunnelling works for the Dubai Metro Blue Line. The project, scheduled to open on September 9, 2029, has a budget of Dh20.5 billion to complete what the leader termed "the world's newest and most beautiful metro".

The 30km line will include 14.5km above ground and 15.5km underground. Sheikh Mohammed said investment in transport is an investment in the future, adding that the project will support a more connected, efficient and sustainable city. He said, “Our projects in Dubai are delivered to meet the highest international standards, guided by clear plans, precise timelines, and national talent capable of turning vision into tangible achievements in practice. Their delivery is overseen by 180 railway experts and engineers."

Tunnelling begins

At the International City 1 Station site, Sheikh Mohammed gave the signal to launch the tunnel boring machine (TBM), named ‘Al Wugeisha’ by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This marks the official start of tunnelling works.

Excavation will proceed in three directions: towards Mirdif, the Auto Market, and Al Warsan (International City 2). The 163-metre-long machine weighs over 2,000 tonnes and operates 24/7, advancing 13–17 metres per day. It is equipped with advanced digital guidance, monitoring systems, and integrated logistics for material transport, and is capable of handling various geological conditions.

Accelerated progress

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the project’s development, from route approval in November 2023 to contract award in December 2024 and the foundation stone laying in June 2025. The project is now 20 per cent complete, with over 10,000 workers and 500 engineers involved.

Construction of stations and bridges is progressing rapidly, including a 1.3km metro bridge over Dubai Creek – the first of its kind. Completion is expected to reach 30 per cent by the end of 2026.

Proactive approach

The Blue Line is the first RTA rail project to include dedicated concrete batching plants and precast facilities, improving quality control, efficiency, and supply chain management while reducing timelines.

Future expansion

Sheikh Mohammed also highlighted ongoing major infrastructure projects, including the newly announced Dh34-billion Gold Line, which will connect to Etihad Rail and ease congestion across the city.

Dubai Metro Blue Line overview

The Blue Line will connect with the Red Line at Centrepoint Station and the Green Line at Creek Station. It will feature 14 stations and is expected to reduce traffic congestion by 20 per cent along its маршруты. Travel times between key areas, including Dubai International Airport, will range from 10 to 25 minutes.

The line will also serve Dubai Academic City and Dubai Silicon Oasis. Its Emaar Properties station, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, will be the world’s highest metro station.

Dubai Metro Gold Line

The fully underground Gold Line will include 18 stations at depths of up to 40 metres, serving 15 key areas. It is expected to reduce more than 40 million journeys annually and cut congestion on the Red Line by 23 per cent. By 2040, it is projected to serve 465,000 passengers daily and support over 55 major real estate developments.

With a Dh34-billion budget, the Gold Line represents Dubai’s largest public transport expansion and will integrate with the UAE’s national rail network, Etihad Rail.