Dubai’s upcoming Blue Line on the metro network is set to offer state-of-the-art transport solutions for the city, with the capacity to accommodate nearly 1,000 passengers per train, according to an announcement by a top official from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
At a press conference held on Thursday, Abdul Muhsen Ibrahim Kalbat, CEO of the RTA’s railway agency, revealed that the new line will feature 28 trains, each with the ability to carry 988 passengers.
Once operational on September 9, 2029, the Blue Line is expected to significantly ease congestion by carrying between 320,000 and 350,000 passengers daily across its 30km route.
The Blue Line, featuring 14 strategically located stations, is designed to alleviate traffic in key areas of Dubai, with the RTA estimating a 20% reduction in traffic congestion once it begins operations. The line will serve five major hubs, ensuring efficient connectivity across the city.
Kalbat emphasized that the project was designed with the future in mind. “We have considered redesigning the seating arrangements and trains to provide additional capacity,” Kalbat said. “This will add a new capacity to our train system, ensuring smoother travel for passengers.”
The metro’s new system will rely heavily on Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. The driverless trains will be automatically managed and operated using AI software, allowing them to adjust schedules in real-time to minimize delays.
“If a train faces a disruption, such as a passenger delay while boarding or disembarking, the system will automatically recalibrate and ensure that the train catches up on its journey schedule,” Kalbat explained.
This innovative approach will not only enhance efficiency but also improve the overall passenger experience by maintaining a consistent flow of trains across all stations. AI is expected to play a key role in managing and optimizing operations throughout the day.
The Blue Line project, which has been awarded to a consortium of prominent Turkish and Chinese companies – MAPA, LIMAK, and CRRC – comes with a significant investment of Dh20.5 billion.
The RTA’s Director General, Mattar Al Tayer, described the Blue Line as one of the “best rail projects” in the Middle East, citing the use of cutting-edge technologies, including advanced braking systems.
“The new brake systems will be far superior to those used 15-20 years ago,” Al Tayer noted. “This will ensure the line’s efficiency and safety while reducing power consumption.”
With a long-term vision for Dubai’s growing population, the RTA has forecast that the Blue Line will carry 200,000 passengers per day by 2030, with that number expected to rise to 350,000 by 2040.
The introduction of this new line aligns with Dubai’s broader strategy to provide a sustainable and efficient public transportation network that meets the needs of residents and visitors alike.
As Dubai continues to evolve as a global hub for business and tourism, the Blue Line will play a crucial role in reducing traffic, enhancing connectivity, and contributing to the city’s sustainability goals, making it one of the most anticipated transportation developments in the region.