Dubai has unveiled an ambitious plan to more than double its number of Metro and tram stations by 2040, as part of a major public transport development drive. This initiative aligns with Dubai's broader economic strategy, discussed during a recent meeting of the Executive Council of Dubai.

Expansion of Metro Network

The Executive Council meeting, chaired by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, highlighted the significant expansion of Dubai's rail network. Currently, Dubai boasts 55 Metro stations—35 on the red line and 20 on the green line—and 11 tram stops, according to the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The new plans aim to increase the number of stations to 96 by 2030, covering 140 kilometers. By 2040, the network will expand further to 140 stations across 228 square kilometers, according to a statement from the Dubai Media Office.

Vision for a '20-Minute City'

This expansion is crucial to Dubai's vision for a '20-minute city,' which aims to develop areas around Metro stations to enhance public transport usage. The blueprint seeks to:

• Increase the share of public transport to 45%.
• Reduce carbon emissions to 16 tonnes per capita.
• Improve public spaces to encourage walking.
• Increase shaded areas.

The plan also focuses on boosting the populations around Metro stations and increasing the number of residential, commercial, office, and service spaces, thereby attracting more users and enhancing economic opportunities.

Launch of the Dubai Metro Blue Line

In a significant development, work on the Dubai Metro Blue Line will commence this year. The Dh18 billion ($4.9 billion) project will add 30 kilometers to the Metro network, including 14 new stations, more than half of which will be underground.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of the RTA, stated, “This year will witness the start of implementation of the Dubai Metro Blue Line project.” The Blue Line, set to be completed by 2029, will connect key urban regions of Dubai, including Bur Dubai, Deira, Downtown, Business Bay, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Marina, JBR, and Expo City Dubai.

Boost in Public Transport Usage

The RTA reported that the Metro accounted for 37% of the total users of mass transit, shared transport, and taxis last year. The combined ridership of public transport and shared mobility, including Metro, tram, buses, marine transport, and taxis, reached approximately 702 million, marking a 13% increase from 621.4 million in 2022.

Supporting Dubai’s Mosques

The Executive Council also approved plans to double the number of Emiratis working in mosques. The 'Manbar' programme aims to equip citizens with the necessary skills and qualifications to serve places of worship. Overseen by the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities, this initiative will provide training for delivering prayers, the call to prayer, and the Friday sermon.

Participants in the Manbar programme will receive comprehensive training and evaluation, with opportunities for permanent appointments.

Promoting Traditional Values

Additionally, the council announced the ‘Ghras Al Khair’ programme, which will collaborate with young influencers and content creators to promote traditional values of tolerance, harmony, and cohesion, thereby strengthening national identity. This programme will support educational projects in schools and universities, along with digital awareness campaigns.

Dubai’s strategic initiatives reflect its commitment to enhancing public transport, supporting community services, and fostering national identity, ensuring a brighter and more connected future for all residents.