Dubai,TNM: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has unveiled an ambitious Dh34-billion plan to construct a new fully underground metro corridor, known as the Dubai Metro Gold Line, marking the largest public transport project in the emirate’s history.
Announced on April 22, the 42-kilometre line will run at depths of up to 40 metres and connect 15 major districts across Dubai, reinforcing links between fast-growing residential communities and commercial hubs. The project is scheduled for completion on September 9, 2032, continuing Dubai’s tradition of inaugurating major metro lines on that symbolic date.
In a statement, Sheikh Mohammed described the initiative as a transformative step in Dubai’s long-term vision to become one of the world’s most liveable cities. He confirmed that the project will immediately move into its initial phases, with tendering expected in 2026 and construction to follow after contract awards in 2027.
Expanding Dubai’s metro backbone
The new Gold Line will significantly strengthen the existing Dubai Metro network by linking both the Red and Green lines while also integrating with the UAE’s national railway, Etihad Rail.
The route will begin at Al Ghubaiba and pass through key areas including Mina Rashid, City Walk, Business Bay, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, Nad Al Sheba, Meydan, Al Barsha South, Jumeirah Village Circle, and terminate at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Interchanges are planned at Business Bay and Jumeirah Golf Estates with the Red Line, and at Al Ghubaiba with the Green Line. Connections with Etihad Rail will be established at Meydan and Jumeirah Golf Estates.
Once operational, the Gold Line is expected to serve around 465,000 passengers daily by 2040, while benefiting nearly 1.5 million residents and supporting more than 55 major real estate developments currently under construction.
Reducing congestion, boosting sustainability
Authorities say the project will remove over 40 million journeys from Dubai’s roads annually, easing congestion and improving travel efficiency. It is also expected to reduce crowding on the Red Line—particularly between BurJuman and ONPASSIVE stations—by approximately 23 percent.
The expansion will increase the total metro network length from 120 km to 162 km and raise the number of stations from 67 to 85, enhancing connectivity through new loop systems that facilitate both short and long-distance travel.
Advanced underground construction
The Gold Line will rely on advanced tunnel-boring technology, effectively doubling the length of Dubai Metro’s underground infrastructure. Officials emphasise that construction will be carried out with minimal disruption to daily life and existing developments.
In parallel, planners are studying the proposed Dubai Loop, a high-speed underground transport concept designed to further reduce travel times, though its integration with the Gold Line has yet to be confirmed.
A date of symbolic importance
September 9 holds special significance in Dubai’s transport history. The metro system was first launched on 09.09.2009 at precisely 9:09:09pm, a moment that symbolised precision and ambition. Subsequent milestones have followed the same date, including the opening of the Green Line in 2011.
The upcoming Dubai Metro Blue Line—set to open on September 9, 2029—will precede the Gold Line. Spanning 30 km with 14 stations, it will connect areas such as Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Academic City to the wider network.
With an anticipated long-term economic return of up to 430 percent over two decades, the Gold Line underscores Dubai’s continued investment in sustainable mobility and future-ready infrastructure, as the city prepares to accommodate rapid urban growth in the coming years.
