The Dubai Metro Blue Line will accommodate nearly 1,000 passengers per train, according to a senior official from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This announcement was made during a press conference held on Thursday to launch the highly anticipated Blue Line project.
With construction set to begin in April next year, the Blue Line will consist of 28 trains, each designed to hold up to 988 passengers. Scheduled to commence operations on September 9, 2029, the line is expected to transport between 320,000 and 350,000 passengers daily across five major hubs. Coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the Red Line, the project marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s transit evolution.
Strategic Urban Development and Economic Impact
Spanning a 30-kilometer route, the Blue Line will feature 14 strategically positioned stations. These stations aim to reduce traffic congestion in key areas while boosting the value of nearby properties by up to 25 per cent. The line will also provide seamless connectivity between Dubai International Airport and key urban zones, with travel times ranging from 10 to 25 minutes.
The RTA awarded a Dh20.5 billion contract for the project to MAPA, LIMAK, and CRRC, three prominent companies from Turkey and China. Abdul Muhsen Ibrahim Kalbat, CEO of the RTA’s railway agency, highlighted the line’s long-term impact: “By 2030, the line will serve 200,000 passengers daily, eventually increasing to 350,000 by 2040.”
Kalbat also noted enhancements in train design, stating, “Redesigned seating arrangements and advanced train systems will ensure each train accommodates approximately 988 passengers, significantly expanding the metro’s overall capacity.”
Integration of AI for Smart Train Operations
The driverless Blue Line will leverage advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems to ensure operational efficiency. These AI-powered systems will automatically manage schedules, address disruptions, and recalibrate train timings in real-time.
Explaining the AI integration, Kalbat said, “If a train faces delays, such as door blockages, it will automatically recalculate and adjust its schedule, ensuring smooth operations across all stations. This technology will enhance passenger comfort and system reliability.”
Cutting-Edge Technology and Sustainability
RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer emphasized the project’s innovative features, calling it one of the best rail projects in the Middle East. He stated, “The Blue Line incorporates advanced braking systems and energy-efficient technologies, reducing power consumption compared to earlier metro lines. With an investment of Dh20.5 billion, this project represents a significant leap forward in transit technology and design.”
The 30-kilometer route includes 15.5 kilometers of underground tracks and 14.5 kilometers of elevated tracks. It features three interchange stations—Al Khor (Green Line), Centrepoint (Red Line), and International City (1)—and integrates Dubai Metro’s first-ever bridge crossing over Dubai Creek, spanning 1,300 meters.
Architectural Highlights and Connectivity
One of the standout features of the Blue Line will be the architectural marvel at Dubai Creek Harbour station, which will serve as a key highlight of the route. The new line ensures connectivity between the Red and Green Lines, enhancing the city’s integrated transit network.
The Blue Line’s 21-kilometer primary route begins at Al Khor Interchange Station, passing through Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Ras Al Khor before reaching International City (1). It then continues to Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubai Academic City, featuring 10 stations with a mix of underground and elevated tracks.
A secondary 9-kilometer route starts at Centrepoint Interchange Station in Al Rashidiya, traversing Mirdif and Al Warqaa before converging at International City (1). This segment includes four additional stations. To support operations, a train depot will be constructed in Al Ruwaiyah 3.
Driving Urban Transformation
Aligned with Dubai’s 20-Minute City initiative, the Blue Line aims to make 80 per cent of essential services accessible within a 20-minute commute. The project supports transit-oriented development (TOD), fostering sustainable urban growth while improving the city’s overall transit infrastructure.
Published on: 19 Dec 2024
Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/transport/dubai-metro-blue-line-designed-to-fit-nearly-1000-passengers-in-each-train-top-rta-official
