With the commencement of construction on Dubai Metro’s Blue Line, the city’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, laid the foundation stone for the first station in the Dubai Creek Harbour area on Monday, June 10, 2025. This project is considered one of the most important parts of the UAE’s comprehensive public transportation development plan.
The Dubai Metro Blue Line, spanning over 30 kilometers and comprising 14 stations (9 elevated and 5 underground), is set to connect key areas of the city, including Mirdif, Al Warqa, International City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, Ras Al Khor, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Festival City.
One of the most notable elements of the project is the “Emaar Properties” station, located in Dubai Creek Harbour, which will be constructed at a height of 74 meters. This station, set to become the tallest metro station in the world, is being designed by the American firm SOM, with an architectural style inspired by urban gateways and modern luxury aesthetics. Estimates indicate that up to 160,000 passengers per day will use this station.
Smart and Seamless Interchange Between Metro Lines
The Blue Line route includes three major interchange stations:
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Creek Station with the Green Line,
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Centerpoint Station with the Red Line,
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International City 1 Station as an internal interchange station on the Blue Line itself.
Dubai will also see the construction of the largest underground metro interchange station, with an area of over 44,000 square meters and a daily capacity of 350,000 passengers.
Project Goals, Budget, and Environmental Benefits
According to Dubai transportation officials, the cost of implementing this major project is estimated at AED 20.5 billion. It is projected that by 2030, more than 200,000 passengers per day, and by 2040, over 320,000 passengers per day will use the Blue Line. The line will be capable of transporting up to 46,000 people per hour in each direction, potentially reducing traffic congestion in covered areas by up to 20%.
Notably, the Blue Line is the first metro route in Dubai to cross over Dubai Creek, and the first public transport project in Dubai to receive a Platinum-level green building certification.
Contractors and Additional Facilities
The project has been awarded to major international firms, including MAPA and LIMAK from Turkey, and CRRC from China.
In addition to the metro service itself, the Blue Line’s design includes special focus on complementary transport facilities such as:
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Dedicated bicycle paths,
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E-scooter stations,
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Parking for people with disabilities,
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Smart taxi stands.
