Dubai Metro Blue Line races ahead in construction

One of the largest public transport infrastructure projects in the Emirate, the Dubai Metro Blue Line, is progressing at a rapid pace. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that the first phase of tunnel excavation has already been completed just two months after tunnelling officially began.

According to the RTA, the Blue Line showcases the remarkable technological advancements achieved since the construction of Dubai Metro’s first phase nearly two decades ago.

The project is a key component of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, designed to support the city’s long-term urban development by improving connectivity between new residential communities, commercial hubs, tourist attractions and educational institutions, making public transport faster and more convenient.

Major technological leap

When Dubai Metro’s first tunnels were built in 2007, Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) could excavate only about 12 metres per day, and completing a single tunnel took nearly seven months.

In contrast, the advanced TBM being used for the Blue Line, named Al Wughaish, can excavate up to 30 metres per day. Equipped with a digital guidance system and real-time monitoring technology, it significantly improves both construction speed and precision.

Measuring 163 metres in length and weighing around 2,000 tonnes, Al Wughaish is far more than a conventional excavation machine. It simultaneously removes excavated soil and installs the tunnel’s concrete lining, creating a fully integrated underground construction system that enhances safety, accuracy and efficiency.

Largest underground interchange station

One of the project’s highlights is the underground Interchange Station at International City 1.

Covering more than 44,000 square metres, it will become the largest underground metro station in Dubai’s network. The station is expected to handle around 350,000 passengers daily and will serve as the main interchange connecting the Blue Line’s two branches.

World’s tallest metro station

Another landmark feature is the Emaar Properties Station, which will rise to a height of 74 metres, making it the world’s tallest metro station.

The station has been designed by the same architectural firm responsible for the Burj Khalifa. Spanning approximately 11,000 square metres, it is expected to become another iconic example of Dubai’s modern architecture.

Two routes spanning 30 kilometres

The 30-kilometre Blue Line will consist of two main routes. The 21-kilometre route will begin at the Green Line’s Creek Interchange Station in Al Jaddaf and pass through Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, International City 1, 2 and 3, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Dubai Academic City. This section will include 10 stations.

The 9-kilometre route will start from the Red Line’s Centrepoint Interchange Station, travel through Mirdif and Al Warqa, and terminate at the main interchange station in International City 1. This section will have four stations.

With its emphasis on speed, safety and cutting-edge engineering, the Dubai Metro Blue Line is expected to usher in a new era of public transportation in Dubai once completed.