Updated on July 8, 2026: The multi-billion dollar Metro Blue Line expansion reached a major milestone in July 2026, with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announcing the completion of the first phase of tunneling works in just two months. Officially launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in May 2026 at the International City 1 station hub, the rapid progress is powered by a new generation of smart engineering technology. The project’s primary tunnel boring machine (TBM), named Al Wugeisha, is a massive 2,000-tonne, 163-meter-long integrated production system. Utilizing advanced digital guidance and automated lining capabilities, the TBM has achieved excavation speeds of up to 30 meters per day, effectively doubling the tunneling speeds of Dubai’s previous metro projects.
The $5.6 billion Blue Line expansion features a 15.5-kilometer underground corridor out of its total 30-kilometer route, designed to connect nine major growing districts. The initial tunneling phases are branching out in three directions from International City 1, slated to be the network’s largest underground interchange station, pushing toward Mirdif, the Auto Market, and Al Warsan. Backed by dedicated on-site concrete batching and precast tunnel-ring factories that supply the structural linings continuously, the multi-front construction is heavily mobilized with over 10,000 workers. The overall project is currently on track to reach 30% completion by the end of 2026, maintaining its timeline toward a grand public opening on September 9, 2029.
May 4, 2026
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, paid a visit to the site of the Dubai Metro Blue Line Tunnelling Works.
Moreover, on his official X account, Sheikh Mohammed stated that the project will span 30 km. With half of it being underground, it will have 14 iconic stations, serving one million people and reducing congestion in Dubai by 20 per cent.
Timeline
Additionally, ahead of the launch deadline set for September 9, 2029, Sheikh Mohammed revealed that 10,000 employees and engineers are racing against time on a budget of AED20 billion to complete “the world’s newest and most beautiful metro”.
Details on the Dubai Metro Blue Line Tunnelling Machine
Sheikh Mohammed gave the signal to operate the tunnel boring machine known as TBM. This marked the commencement of the excavation works.
Also, the TBM measures 163 meters in length. Furthermore, it weighs over 2,000 tons. The machine operates around the clock, and achieves an average excavation length ranging from 13 to 17 meters per day.
Furthermore, the Blue Line will link the neighbourhoods of Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, Al Warqaa, Mirdif, Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Academic City, and Dubai International City. Additionally, it will link interchanges with existing and future metro lines and with the Etihad Rail network.
Similar Projects
These works are also alongside the AED34 billion being spent on the Gold Line. The Gold Line is expected to be complete by September 9, 2032.
Other Major Developments in Dubai
Moreover, Sheikh Mohammed added that these ongoing works are alongside several major developments planned in Dubai. These include “our new global airport, future transport lines, the International Financial Center in a new look, digital infrastructure and government services powered by self-driving artificial intelligence technologies, and many more projects we will launch in the coming months”.
Also, Sheikh Mohammed believes these make Dubai “the world’s most future-ready city”.
He continued: “Investing in the transport sector is an investment in the future and a key pillar of enhancing Dubai’s global competitiveness.
“The Dubai Metro Blue Line represents an extension of an integrated vision aimed at building a more connected, efficient and sustainable city.
“Moreover, our projects in Dubai are delivered to the highest international standards, guided by clear plans and precise timelines, and driven by national talent capable of turning vision into tangible achievements on the ground. Their delivery is overseen by 180 rail experts and engineers.”
Dubai Metro Blue Line Tunnelling Project Factsheet
Total Line Length: 30 km.
Tunneling Length: 15.5 km (running entirely underground).
Elevated Section: 14.5 km.
Total Stations: 14 (9 elevated, 5 underground).
Projected Completion: September 9, 2029 (20th anniversary of the Dubai Metro).
Tunnel Depth: Reaches up to 70 meters at its deepest points
Excavation Method: Twin-bore tunnels utilizing pressurized Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) designed to handle Dubai’s sandy soil and high water table.
Project Team
Project Owner: Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) — Responsible for overall project execution, funding, strategic alignment with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, and final integration into the city’s wider transit network.
Civil Works Leads: Mapa Group (Turkey) & Limak Holding (Turkey) — Heading the heavy civil engineering, structural construction, elevated viaducts, and the intricate 15.5-kilometer underground tunneling operations.
Rail Systems and Rolling Stock Lead: China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) (China). It will manage the mechanical and electrical engineering, rail networks, power systems, and the delivery of the Blue Line’s 28 automated, driverless trains.
Project Management Consultant (PMC): Parsons Corporation in a joint venture with AtkinsRéalis. The company has been tasked with a 5-year oversight role covering design reviews, procurement support, construction supervision, testing, commissioning, and project handover safety.
Consortium Planning Lead: TBH Middle East. Recruited by the main consortium to direct integrated project controls, risk management, data tracking, and scheduling across all construction fronts.
Iconic Station Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). It is the renowned design firm behind the Burj Khalifa and was selected to design the signature 74-meter-tall architectural station at Dubai Creek Harbour, set to become the highest metro station in the world.
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