Dubai eases travel: Gold and Blue Line metro expansion ease movement for residents, tourists
ET Online April 29, 2026 04:57 PM
Synopsis

Dubai is significantly boosting its transport network with the Dh34 billion Gold Line metro, a 42km underground route connecting 15 key locations. Progress is also evident on the Blue Line, now 10% complete, and the Hessa Street road upgrade, drastically cutting travel times. These ambitious projects underscore Dubai's commitment to accommodating its growing population and urban expansion.

Related

  • Dubai home prices record first decline after post-pandemic boom
  • Dubai’s Burj Al Arab to close for 18-months due to restoration work
Dubai has announced a new metro line and ongoing transport upgrades as part of a broader plan to expand its infrastructure network. The developments include the launch of the Gold Line metro project, progress on the Blue Line, and the completion of the Hessa Street road upgrade, according to a report by Gulf News.

The projects reflect the emirate’s continued investment in transport to support population growth and urban expansion, as well as reduce travel time across major residential and commercial areas.

Gold Line to expand metro reach

Dubai on April 22 announced the Metro Gold Line, described as the largest public transport project in the emirate. The Dh34 billion project is expected to serve about 1.5 million residents.


The 42-kilometre line will run underground from Al Ghubaiba and connect 15 locations, including Business Bay, Meydan, Al Barsha South and Jumeirah Village Circle. The project may also link with Etihad Rail to extend connectivity beyond Dubai.

(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)


Blue Line work progresses

The Dubai Metro Blue Line, announced earlier, has reached 10% completion within five months of construction. The line will have 14 stations and two branches connecting key areas.

One branch will run from Al Jaddaf through Dubai Creek Harbour and Ras Al Khor to Dubai Academic City. The second branch will connect Al Rashidiya with International City through Mirdif and Al Warqa. A depot and maintenance facility is planned in Al Ruwayyah 3.

Road upgrade cuts travel time

Dubai has also completed the Hessa Street Development Project, improving traffic flow on a key corridor. Travel time on the 4.5-kilometre stretch between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road has reduced from around 15 minutes to four minutes.

Road capacity has increased from 8,000 to 16,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. Work on the second phase is under way, which will extend the project to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and include bridges, a tunnel and intersection upgrades.

The Dubai Metro, operational since 2009, remains central to the city’s transport system. The latest projects are aimed at improving daily commutes, supporting tourism, and strengthening links across high-density areas.

Dubai’s ongoing infrastructure expansion is expected to make travel faster and more accessible across the city as its population and visitor numbers continue to grow.
© Copyright @2026 LIDEA. All Rights Reserved.