Dubai to Build First Fully Underground Metro Line: Gold Line Worth AED 34 Billion

28.04.2026

Dubai authorities have officially approved the construction of a new metro line — the Gold Line, which will become the largest transport project in the emirate’s history. The announcement was made by the Ruler of Dubai, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

According to official sources, the new line will be fully underground, stretching 42 km and including 18 stations. The total investment in the project will amount to AED 34 billion (approximately $9.2–9.3 billion). The new line will expand the city’s transport network by 25%. Upon completion, the total length of Dubai’s metro system will reach 162 km, and the number of stations will increase to 85.

Route and Infrastructure

The Gold Line will be Dubai’s first fully underground metro line, with tunnels running at depths of up to 40 meters. The route will extend from Al Ghubaiba to Jumeirah Golf Estates, connecting 15 key districts of the emirate — including the historic city center and rapidly developing residential clusters. The line will pass through Mina Rashid, City Walk, Business Bay, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, Nad Al Sheba, Meydan, Al Barsha South, and Jumeirah Village Circle.

The Gold Line will be integrated with the existing Red and Green metro lines, as well as with the national Etihad Rail network at Meydan and Jumeirah Golf Estates stations. This will create a unified multimodal transport system and improve connectivity both within Dubai and with other emirates of the UAE.

Impact on the Real Estate Market

The project holds particular importance for the real estate sector. According to the Dubai government, the new line will improve transport accessibility for more than 55 major development projects currently under construction. The metro will serve approximately 1.5 million residents along the route.

According to estimates from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Gold Line will deliver a 430% economic return over 20 years due to reduced travel time, lower road congestion, and fewer traffic accidents. Areas along the route — including Business Bay, Meydan, JVC, and Nad Al Sheba — are expected to benefit the most, as they host a significant share of new residential developments.

Construction will be carried out in phases, with the line scheduled to open on September 9, 2032, marking the 23rd anniversary of the Dubai Metro. At the same time, the emirate is also developing the Blue Line, a AED 20.5 billion project expected to open in 2029. Together, these projects are shaping a new vision for Dubai’s transport system — one focused on public transit rather than private vehicles.

Need help with real estate?Contact us!Reach out to Mayak Real Estate Agency for a professional consultation on buying, selling, renting, or investing in property.

Evgenia TimofienkoOwner & CEO Mayak Real Estate Agency

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