Dubai Metro Marks 16 Years of Service

Since its launch on September 9, 2009, the Metro has carried more than 2.5 billion passengers and continues to be one of Dubai’s most used modes of transport, with 143.9 million journeys recorded in the first half of 2025 alone.

Formal planning for the Metro began in 2004 as authorities sought to address rising congestion in the emirate. Construction of the Red and Green Lines started in 2006, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurating the first phase of the Red Line on September 9, 2009. The Green Line followed in 2011.

Over the years, the network has expanded, most notably with the Route 2020 project, which extended the Red Line by 15 kilometres to connect with Expo 2020 Station. The next major addition, the Blue Line, is scheduled to be completed by 2029 and will stretch through new districts of the city.

By 2040, the Metro is expected to serve more than 140 stations, covering 228 square kilometres. Authorities say the expansion will not only improve connectivity but also stimulate development around key stations as part of Dubai’s Urban Master Plan.