His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has inaugurated the main tunnelling phase of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a development valued at more than AED20.5 billion.
The 30-kilometre line includes 15.5 kilometres underground and 14.5 kilometres elevated. It will feature 14 stations, comprising three interchange hubs, seven elevated stops, and four underground stations. The line is set to serve nine major districts, supporting a population of around one million as outlined in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. During the visit, His Highness also reviewed station interiors and received an update on construction progress.
He emphasised that investment in transport infrastructure is a strategic investment in the future and a cornerstone of strengthening Dubai’s global competitiveness. He added that the Blue Line reflects a broader vision to create a more connected, efficient, and sustainable urban environment.
He further noted that Dubai’s projects are executed to the highest global standards, guided by clear planning, defined timelines, and national expertise capable of translating vision into reality. Oversight of the project is being carried out by a team of 180 railway specialists and engineers.
The official ceremony marking the start of tunnelling works was attended by senior leaders, including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, alongside other senior officials.
The commencement of tunnelling from the network’s largest underground interchange station, spanning over 44,000 square metres, highlights Dubai’s commitment to building a smart mobility ecosystem. This initiative aims to enhance quality of life, facilitate business growth, and improve connectivity across communities, reinforcing the city’s standing as a leading global destination for living, working, and tourism.
Dubai continues to strengthen its forward-looking development model by investing in advanced infrastructure aligned with its economic and urban ambitions, ensuring readiness for future growth phases.
At the International City 1 Station site, Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed by Mattar Al Tayer, along with senior representatives from MAPA, LIMAK, and CRRC Hong Kong, in addition to executives from the Roads and Transport Authority.
During the visit, Mattar Al Tayer outlined the project timeline, beginning with route approval in November 2023, contract award in December 2024, and the laying of the foundation stone in June 2025. The project has now reached 20% completion, with over 10,000 workers on site and more than 500 engineers and specialists supervising delivery under Emirati leadership.
The consortium has recorded over 13 million work hours without any lost-time injuries. Construction across stations is progressing ahead of schedule, demonstrating strong execution efficiency. Meanwhile, bridge works are underway, including the installation of foundations and supporting piers.
Work has also commenced on the bridge crossing Dubai Creek, which will be the first metro bridge to span the creek. Stretching 1.3 kilometres, the structure is expected to begin taking shape by next June.
