The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that it has awarded the contract for the Dubai Metro Blue Line project to a consortium of three leading Turkish and Chinese companies: MAPA, LIMAK and CRRC, RTA has reported. The project, which covers 30 kilometers and includes 14 stations, is estimated to cost AED 20.5 billion and will start operations on September 9, 2029. His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), announced the launch of the Dubai Metro Blue Line project during a press conference held at the One&Only Za’abeel Hotel. The event was attended by the heads of the consortium companies.
Al Tayer said that the launch of the Dubai Metro Blue Line project embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to prioritize infrastructure development as a cornerstone of Dubai’s comprehensive growth. The new Blue Line aligns with the goals of Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda and Dubai Master Plan 2040, reinforcing Dubai’s vision to become the world’s most liveable city. It offers sustainable and flexible public transport solutions that enhance the mobility of residents and visitors, enhance the quality of life and strengthen Dubai’s position as a global hub for events and activities.
Dubai: Infrastructure Development
The Blue Line also supports urban planning initiatives such as the “20-Minute City”, ensuring that over 80% of services are accessible within a 20-minute commute, while promoting transit-oriented development (TOD). The project also underscores Dubai’s commitment to developing infrastructure to meet the needs of its population and urban growth, fostering integration between different modes of public transport, and supporting the city’s ambitions as a future-ready metropolis. The Dubai Metro Blue Line has been carefully designed with sustainability in mind. It connects key current and future high-density areas, which are projected to have approximately one million residents by 2040. These areas include Dubai Creek Harbour, Festival City – one of Dubai’s most promising development hubs – and International City, home to a Chinese market and large residential developments, housing over 200,000 residents and visitors.
Al Tayer added: “The consortium selected for the Blue Line project was selected through an international tender that attracted five alliances comprising 15 of the world’s leading companies specialising in metro systems and infrastructure. These alliances submitted detailed technical and financial proposals, with three consortia advancing to the final stage. After a rigorous evaluation process, the contract was awarded to a consortium led by MAPA from Turkey in partnership with LIMAK and CRRC.” MAPA and LIMAK will oversee the construction work, while CRRC will handle the rail systems.
Economic Impact
The total length of the Dubai Metro Blue Line will be 30 kilometers, including 15.5 kilometers of underground tracks and 14.5 kilometers of above-ground tracks, with 14 stations along the route. The line includes three interchange stations: Al Khor on the Green Line, Centrepoint on the Red Line, and International City. A signature architectural station will be built at Dubai Creek Harbour, which will be the highlight of the project. In addition, the Blue Line will be the first time in the history of the Dubai Metro to cross Dubai Creek via a 1,300-meter bridge. Investment in infrastructure is a key driver of economic growth for cities around the world. In addition, the line will connect Dubai’s fifth urban center, Dubai Silicon Oasis, ensuring the integration of all major urban nodes of the city into the metro network.
Notably, the Blue Line will be the first transport project in Dubai to meet the Platinum Green Building Standards, setting a new standard for sustainable urban development. The Dubai Metro Blue Line project is expected to generate AED 2.60 in economic, social and environmental benefits for every AED invested by 2040. The total project benefits are expected to exceed AED 56.5 billion by 2040 through time savings, fuel consumption, reduced accident-related fatalities and lower carbon emissions. The Blue Line is expected to reduce congestion on key road corridors by 20% and increase land and property values around stations by 25%. It will also provide direct connections between Dubai International Airport and key areas along the route, with travel times ranging from 10 to 25 minutes.