Dubai is set to expand its public transport network with a new metro line, as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, announced plans for the project in a post on X.

The proposed “Golden Line,” with an estimated cost of AED 34 billion ($9.26 billion), is scheduled for completion on September 9, 2032. The announcement highlights the emirate’s continued investment in large-scale infrastructure to support population growth and improve urban mobility.

In his post, Sheikh Mohammed said: “The Gold Line project will cost AED 34 billion. It will increase the length of the Dubai Metro network by 35%, and is scheduled for completion on 9/9/2032.”

He added: “Our landmark projects to position Dubai as the world’s best city to live in are on track. Our future endeavors will not stop; rather, they will accelerate. Our plan is to build a better future for millions of people. We stand by our words and deliver on them.”

According to Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Golden Line represents a strategic investment projected to deliver a cumulative economic return of 430% over 20 years of operation. This will be driven by savings in time and fuel, as well as reductions in road accident fatalities and carbon emissions.

“The Dubai Metro Gold Line marks a strategic milestone in the evolution of Dubai’s public transport network, reflecting the leadership’s vision to develop integrated, sustainable infrastructure that fuels economic growth and enhances quality of life,” Al Tayer said, as reported by Dubai Media Office on X.

The new line will span 42 kilometers and reach depths of up to 40 meters underground, making it one of the more technically ambitious additions to the city’s transit network. It is expected to serve around 1.5 million residents across 15 areas, improving connectivity along key urban corridors.

With this expansion, the Dubai Metro network will extend to 162 kilometers and 85 stations. Since its launch in September 2009 through the end of 2025, the system has carried more than 2.8 billion passengers.

In 2025 alone, ridership reached 295 million passengers, a 7% increase compared to 2024. With a daily average of one million users, the Dubai Metro accounts for 40% of all public transport use across the emirate.

The project forms part of Dubai’s broader strategy to future-proof its infrastructure, aligning with long-term urban expansion plans and sustainability targets. As the city continues to grow, investments in mass transit remain critical to reducing congestion, improving accessibility, and supporting economic growth.