Mohammed bin Rashid Launches Excavation Work for the Blue Line Tunnels of the Dubai Metro
In a historic move that solidifies Dubai’s status as a global transportation hub, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has launched the foundational excavation work for the Blue Line tunnels of the Dubai Metro. The project includes investments of up to 20.5 billion dirhams and covers a distance of 30 kilometers, with 15.5 kilometers underground and 14.5 kilometers above ground. The Blue Line aims to serve nine vital areas, benefiting approximately one million residents by 2040, according to Dubai’s urban plan.
Project Features and Future Vision
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, oversaw the presentation of the interior designs for the stations and the progress of the work. He emphasized that investing in the transportation sector is an investment in the future and enhances Dubai’s global competitiveness. He stated, “The Blue Line of the Dubai Metro represents an extension of a comprehensive vision aimed at building a more interconnected, efficient, and sustainable city.”
Advanced Technologies and Workforce
The event also featured several prominent figures, including His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at the Roads and Transport Authority, presented details about the progress of the project since its inception in November 2023, noting that the current completion rate has reached 20%, with over 10,000 workers supervised by 500 Emirati engineers and experts.
Tunneling Mechanism and Operational Efficiency
His Highness launched the operation of the tunnel boring machine known as “Al Waqeisha,” which is considered one of the latest machines in this field. This machine is 163 meters long and weighs over 2,000 tons, equipped with advanced technologies that aid in breaking rocks and penetrating sandy layers. Excavation work will commence in three directions starting from the Global City Station (1) to various areas such as Mirdif and the car market. “Al Waqeisha” has completed over 13 million work hours without recording any injuries, reflecting the efficiency of implementation and rapid progress.
Sustainability and the Future
The project aims for sustainable transportation in Dubai, with the metro network expected to serve about 40% of the total public transport users in the emirate by 2029. The number of users is anticipated to reach approximately 2.8 billion passengers by the end of 2025. Through this project, the Blue Line will contribute to reducing traffic congestion by 20%, making it an essential part of Dubai’s integrated urban growth plan.
Moreover, the Blue Line represents a step towards developing advanced infrastructure that meets the expectations of all residents and visitors of Dubai, reinforcing its position as a comprehensive destination for living, working, and visiting.