Dubai Ruler Lays Foundation for World’s Highest Metro Station
The Blue Line Metro project, set to open in 2029, aims to enhance Dubai's transport network and urban connectivity.
On June 9, Dubai's Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum officiated the laying of the foundation stone for the Emaar Properties Station, part of the new Blue Line Metro, which is anticipated to be the highest metro station globally at 74 meters.
The station is expected to handle 160,000 passengers daily upon completion, contributing to a larger project designed to significantly enhance Dubai's public transport infrastructure.
This event coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Dubai Metro, which has transported over 2.5 billion passengers since its inception in 2009.
The Blue Line project encompasses a 30-kilometer extension of the existing metro network, bringing the total metro system to 131 kilometers across 78 stations.
The initiative represents a Dh20.5 billion investment and is set to generate over Dh56 million in annual profit.
The new line is projected to accommodate a daily ridership of 200,000 in 2030, increasing to 320,000 by 2040.
The design for the Emaar Properties Station, crafted by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, features luxurious interior finishes and incorporates elements that echo Dubai's commitment to innovative urban development.
The station aims to blend seamlessly into the urban landscape while emphasizing community cohesion and resilience through its architectural motifs.
Part of the Blue Line's infrastructure includes the first metro bridge over Dubai Creek, measuring approximately 1.3 kilometers.
The new line is also expected to alleviate traffic congestion by 20% along its routes by integrating multiple transit options, including public bus bays, taxi stands, and facilities for bicycles and electric scooters.
The Blue Line will provide direct access to several key districts in Dubai, such as Mirdif, Al Warqa, and Dubai Creek Harbour.
The project's alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan highlights strategic urban development goals that aim to improve connectivity throughout the emirate.
The Roads and Transport Authority has partnered with several international contractors, including firms from Turkey and China, for the construction efforts associated with this significant expansion of the metro system.
Overall, the Blue Line is positioned to redefine urban mobility in Dubai while upholding sustainable building practices, achieving Platinum Category certification for environmentally-friendly construction.