Dubai has announced ambitious plans to expand its metro network. By 2040, the number of stations is expected to increase from the current 64 to 140, while the network will cover more than 228 square kilometres.
In the first stage, by 2030, the number of stations is expected to reach 96, with the network covering an area of 140 square kilometres.
The project forms part of the Dubai Executive Council’s strategy to develop areas around metro stations, reduce carbon emissions and increase employment and investment in these areas. The plans include the development of new residential, office, retail and service zones.
Dubai currently has two metro lines: the Green Line, serving Bur Dubai and Deira, and the Red Line, connecting the city centre with the airport and the Expo 2020 site.
The Blue Line, planned to span the distance of 30 km, is currently under construction, with approximately half of the route running underground. It will include 14 stations, three of which will be interchange stations, and will connect with the existing metro network.
The expansion of the metro network is also linked to the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to become the world’s largest and will include a direct metro connection to the city.
In recent years, there has also been discussion of three additional planned metro lines - the Purple, Gold and Pink Lines - although details regarding their development and delivery have not yet been confirmed.
