Dubai has approved the Metro Gold Line project, marking a major step forward in the emirate’s long-term transport strategy. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, endorsed the project, which is described as the emirate’s largest sustainable transport initiative. The project involves an investment of around AED34 billion (around $9.3 Billion) and will span 42 kilometres with 18 stations, making it Dubai’s first fully underground metro corridor. The line is designed to connect with both the Red and Green Lines while also integrating with Etihad Rail, creating a direct link to the UAE’s broader national transportation network.
The launch of the Metro Gold Line reflects a broader infrastructure push aimed at strengthening Dubai’s economic growth and urban mobility. Sheikh Mohammed directed that work should begin immediately, with completion targeted for 9 September 2032, a delivery schedule said to be 30% faster than the Dubai Metro’s Blue Line. The route is planned to serve as a key urban corridor, linking historic districts with emerging developments.
It will pass through 15 major locations, starting at Al Ghubaiba and extending through areas such as Mina Rashid, City Walk, Business Bay, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, Nad Al Sheba, Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens, Meydan, Al Barsha South, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and ending at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Through these connections, the project aims to improve accessibility across critical residential and commercial zones.
The Metro Gold Line will also expand Dubai’s metro infrastructure significantly, increasing the total network length from 120 kilometres to 162 kilometres, including the Blue Line. Station numbers will rise from 67 to 85, while the introduction of loop systems is expected to enhance connectivity for both short and long-distance travel. The line will intersect with the Red Line at Business Bay and Jumeirah Golf Estates, connect with the Green Line at Al Ghubaiba, and integrate with Etihad Rail at Meydan and Jumeirah Golf Estates, reinforcing multimodal transport links across the emirate.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), described the project as a significant engineering development, highlighting the use of advanced tunnel boring machine technology to deliver a fully underground system with minimal disruption. He noted that the project meets the highest international standards in quality, safety, and execution speed. The tender process is expected to begin in 2026, followed by contract awards in 2027, with construction progressing toward the planned inauguration in 2032. The Metro Gold Line underscores Dubai’s continued focus on delivering large-scale infrastructure projects efficiently while maintaining global benchmarks in quality and performance.
