Driverless trains … and boundless ambitions : Dubai Metro mapping the future.
Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is the first driverless metro in the Middle East and began operating on September 9, 2009.
Operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), it is considered one of Dubai’s most important infrastructure projects.
It currently consists of two main lines and a major interchange station between the two.
The first extends from Expo 2020 Centre Station to Rashidiya Station.
The second line runs from Union to Business Bay, via areas such as Bur Dubai and Al Qusais.
Future Dubai Metro Lines
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has developed an ambitious plan to expand the metro network to keep pace with Dubai’s population and urban growth.
- The Red Line (Route 2020):
The new extension from Nakheel Harbour & Tower Station to Expo Centre.
It is planned to serve the Expo City area and serve as the nucleus for new residential and commercial developments. - The Green Line
The plan includes extending the line from Al Jaddaf Station to Dubai Academic City and Dubai Silicon Oasis. - The Blue Line: – Future
A new project recently announced for 2023.
It will extend between Al Qusais and Merkadh (near Al Warqa’a) via Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.
(Its length is approximately 30 kilometers, of which 15 kilometers are underground). - The Purple Line: – Future
It will connect Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, passing through some residential areas on Emirates Road.
(The focus here is on connecting airports and serving arrivals and departures.) - Other Future Lines (Circular or Intersecting Lines)
The RTA is studying the possibility of establishing lines.
There are plans to add a Gold Line and branch lines connecting new suburbs such as Dubailand, Dubai Investment Park, and International City.
Integrating the metro with other systems such as trams and smart buses will reduce reliance on private cars.
Future plan objectives:
Connecting 70% of the population to public transport by 2040.
Improving quality of life and reducing carbon emissions.
Supporting the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
