Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Monday traffic diversions in Academic City as construction works on the Dubai Metro Blue Line kicked off.
The diversions include closing 63rd Street in both directions in front of the German International School, with access to Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Street. The RTA added that it is providing alternative entry and exit points for the German International School Dubai. The latest announcement comes after the RTA revealed last week traffic diversions in Mirdif due to the same reason.
Scheduled for completion by September 2029, the Dubai Metro Blue Line will provide seamless connections to the existing Red and Green Metro lines, as well as bus and taxi routes. Officially announced by the RTA at the end of last year, the project is expected to serve approximately 350,000 daily passengers by 2040.
Project secures funding from Emirates NBD
Last week, Emirates NBD finalized AED3.9 billion (around $1.1 billion) in Syndicated Bonding Facilities for a consortium formed by MAPA, LIMAK, and CRRC, which will deliver the new Dubai Metro ‘Blue Line’ Project. Dubai’s RTA awarded the design and build project for the Dubai Metro Blue Line to this consortium. Emirates NBD collaborated with the consortium as part of a comprehensive and seamless process, according to a statement.
Valued at AED20.5 billion (around $5.6 billion), this landmark infrastructure initiative is a key element of Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan. It aims to create, develop and expand a world-class network of public transportation services and mobility solutions, connecting communities with key locations, alleviating traffic congestion and facilitating easier movement of people throughout the emirate.
Project’s benefits to exceed $15.4 billion by 2040
The recently announced Dubai Metro Blue Line is poised to transform the city’s public transportation network. Spanning 30 km and featuring 14 stations, the new line will enhance mobility across nine key districts, projected to house over one million residents, as outlined in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
By 2040, the project is expected to yield a benefit-cost ratio of AED2.60, meaning AED2.60 in benefits for every AED1 spent. The total anticipated benefits will exceed AED56.5 billion ($15.4 billion) by 2040. These benefits encompass significant savings in time and fuel, reduced accident-related fatalities, and lower carbon emissions.
In addition to its substantial economic returns, the Blue Line is expected to decrease traffic congestion on its served routes by 20 percent and increase land and property values near stations by up to 25 percent. The Dubai Metro Blue Line also offers a direct connection between Dubai International Airport and nine key areas along its route, ensuring that all major urban centers in Dubai are seamlessly connected by metro lines.
