Dubai Metro Expansion: RTA and Emaar Sign Major Deal to Upgrade Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Emaar Properties have signed a landmark agreement to significantly expand the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station—one of the city’s busiest transit hubs. The project aims to increase the station’s capacity by 65% to manage surging passenger demand in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
Addressing Soaring Passenger Demand
The expansion is a direct response to rapidly growing ridership. Annual passengers at the station have risen from 6.1 million in 2013 to over 10.5 million in 2024, with daily traffic averaging 58,000 boardings and alightings. Peak demand during major events like New Year’s Eve has pushed the need for enhanced infrastructure.
Key Upgrade Details and Enhanced Capacity
The project will transform the station’s efficiency and passenger experience:
Increased Throughput: Peak hourly capacity will jump from 7,250 to 12,320 passengers, with daily capacity reaching up to 220,000 travellers.
Expanded Footprint: The station’s total area will grow from 6,700 to 8,500 square meters.
Improved Passenger Flow: Upgrades include additional fare gates, new escalators/elevators, and separated entry/exit gates to streamline movement and reduce congestion.
Better Integration: Enhanced pedestrian bridges, entrances, and connectivity with buses, bicycles, and e-scooters will offer seamless multi-modal transit.
A Strategic Public-Private Partnership
The agreement, signed by RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer and Emaar Founder Mohamed Alabbar, underscores a collaborative approach to supporting Dubai’s long-term transport and urban growth goals. The station is a critical gateway for both commuters and tourists accessing Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the entire Downtown district.
Part of Broader Vision for Sustainable Mobility
Located on the Red Line between Business Bay and Financial Centre stations, this upgrade is a strategic component of the RTA’s plan to enhance Dubai’s public transport network. It aligns with the city’s objectives of sustainability, economic vitality, and improved quality of life by building resilient, user-friendly infrastructure.
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The Road Ahead
The expansion of the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is more than a capacity boost—it’s a proactive investment in Dubai’s future mobility. By easing congestion and improving accessibility, the project will play a pivotal role in accommodating the city’s growing population, tourist influx, and major events.
This partnership exemplifies how public-private collaboration can deliver world-class urban solutions, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to maintain a modern, efficient, and inclusive transport system for all.
