Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a AED20.5bn ($5.6bn) contract for the construction of the Dubai Metro Blue Line to a consortium of Turkish firms MAPA and LIMAK, along with Chinese company CRRC.

The landmark project, which will add 30km and 14 stations to the Dubai Metro network, is designed to serve over one million residents by 2040 and is expected to generate AED56.5bn ($15.4bn) in economic benefits.

The Blue Line will feature both underground (15.5km) and elevated (14.5km) tracks, connecting with existing metro lines through three interchange stations. A highlight of the project includes Dubai Metro’s first-ever crossing over Dubai Creek via a 1,300m bridge.

Dubai Metro Blue Line

“The Dubai Metro now accommodates over 850,000 passengers daily and has transported nearly 2.5 billion riders since its launch,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.

“The Blue Line will enhance mobility for residents and visitors while strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub.”

The new line is expected to serve 200,000 passengers daily by 2030, increasing to 320,000 by 2040. It will connect key areas including Dubai Creek Harbour, Festival City, International City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai Academic City.

A signature architectural station at Dubai Creek Harbour, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) will accommodate up to 160,000 passengers daily. The International City interchange station, spanning 44,000 square metres, will be the largest underground station in the metro network.

The project aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, supporting initiatives like the 20-Minute City concept, which aims to make 80 per cent of services accessible within a 20-minute commute.

Construction is scheduled to begin in April 2025, with operations set to commence in September 2029, coinciding with the Dubai Metro’s 20th anniversary. Upon completion, Dubai’s total rail network will expand from 101 to 131km, with the number of stations increasing from 64 to 78.

The project is expected to reduce traffic congestion on key road corridors by 20 per cent and boost property values around stations by up to 25 percent. It will be Dubai’s first transport project to comply with platinum-grade green building standards.