Dubai's Blue Line to reshape Gulf thinking on urban value
Dubai's new Metro Blue Line is being hailed as a model for how transport infrastructure can transform the urban economy, with real estate strategists calling it a game-changer for the city's property landscape. The megaproject is sparking interest across the Gulf, where cities including Manama are planning or expanding their own longterm transit systems.
Firas Al Msaadi, CEO of fäm Properties, said the line will redefine how value is created in urban areas. 'This is not just a metro expansion, this is a game-changer for Dubai's urban economy,' he said. 'The moment you cut commute time you raise the productivity of the entire city.'
Citywide impact
The 30 km Blue Line will link nine districts including Dubai Creek Harbour, Academic City, and Dubai Silicon Oasis. Real estate in these areas is already drawing increased interest, driven by what Al Msaadi calls 'connectivity as the new currency of real estate.'
He added that infrastructure investments benefit even those who do not use the metro directly. 'Less traffic, smarter logistics, higher efficiency - that's how infrastructure becomes a wealth generator.'
Construction of the first station began last week at Dubai Creek Harbour, marking the beginning of what is expected to be one of the most advanced mobility systems in the region.
Redrawing investment
The Blue Line is expected to shift investor behaviour across the emirate. Al Msaadi noted that demand is already rising for housing near metro access points, while undervalued areas such as Academic City and International City are gaining fresh investor attention. Properties located within walking distance of metro stations are expected to command higher rental yields, and developers are beginning to rework future masterplans with metro connectivity as a central design factor.
'Transportation is the one thing that benefits everyone, even those not using it,' he said. 'When others take the train, you drive with less traffic. When a city becomes more fluid, your asset appreciates.'
Gulf relevance With cities across the GCC seeking to enhance livability, efficiency, and sustainability, Dubai's Blue Line offers a high-profile example of how strategic infrastructure can serve as a foundation for longterm urban resilience and economic growth.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Tribune
4 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Bahraini Women Power Ahead
TDT | Manama Young Bahraini women with bold business dreams are stepping into global markets through the fifth edition of the 'Imtiaz' initiative, launched by the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) to champion export-ready female-led startups. First launched in 2011 by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), the 'Imtiaz' platform has evolved into a key springboard for women-led enterprises aiming to scale beyond Bahrain. Participation has surged since its inception, rising from 11 entrepreneurs in the first round to 98 in the fourth. Now in its fifth cycle, the initiative is actively calling for applications from Bahraini women under 45 with at least three years of entrepreneurial experience, whose businesses are licensed and hold majority ownership. A strong emphasis is placed on export potential, creativity, sustainability, and readiness for digital transformation. Support system 'Imtiaz' does more than recognise excellence. It offers branding benefits, access to investors, expert mentorship, and media visibility to winners. Participants gain tools to refine their products, develop marketing strategies, and meet international standards - helping them compete beyond Bahrain's borders. Eligibility conditions include submitting financial documentation and proof of legal licensing, and showing a strong foundation in buying, selling, or services. Judges assess projects on innovation, scalability, governance, and social responsibility. Past winners from previous editions have built thriving businesses in fields ranging from food manufacturing and law to tech consulting, interior design, and medical services. From local to global The latest round also places new weight on strategic readiness for international expansion. Projects must integrate digital tools, align with Fourth Industrial Revolution trends, and demonstrate risk management plans and operational resilience. This focus is part of a broader national effort to enhance women's participation in the economy, consistent with the goals of the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women. Flexibility It reflects a push toward equal opportunity, combining professional ambition with the flexibility to balance family life. Entrepreneurs who meet the criteria can now apply to join the fifth 'Imtiaz' cohort and take their business vision global.
Daily Tribune
4 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Cargo airline boosts racing
TDT | Manama Texel Air has renewed its gold sponsorship of the Bahrain Turf Series for another three seasons, cementing its role in powering Bahrain's equestrian ambitions through specialised air cargo support. The agreement was signed in the United Kingdom during the Newmarket July Festival, which saw Bahrain sponsor all three Group races on the card. The deal extends Texel Air's partnership with the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club (REHC), under the leadership of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Court of the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Club's High Committee. Strategic support Yusuf Buheji, Chief Executive Officer of REHC, called the renewed sponsorship a strategic collaboration that aligns with Bahrain's aspirations to become a global hub for horseracing. 'Texel Air's continued support reflects a shared belief in the potential of racing in the Kingdom,' Buheji said. 'Partnerships like this are vital to the sport's growth and to positioning Bahrain as an international racing destination.' He also noted Texel's broader contributions to Bahrain's logistics sector and expressed confidence in the sustained impact of the partnership over the next three seasons. Aligned ambitions George Chisholm, Executive Director of Texel Air, described the sponsorship as a natural fit, given the airline's growing focus on equine transportation. 'The Bahrain Turf Series has made impressive strides over the past four years. We are proud to support its continued growth,' Chisholm said. 'This partnership highlights our commitment to national sectors like sport and reinforces our dedication to the Kingdom's broader ambitions.' He added that Texel Air's role in transporting horses and equipment across borders makes it uniquely positioned to contribute to the success of international racing events in Bahrain. Rising profile Launched in 2021, the Bahrain Turf Series has quickly gained global recognition, attracting entries from leading racing nations during Bahrain's winter season. Alongside events such as the Bahrain International Trophy and the King's Cup, the series anchors Bahrain's international racing calendar. Texel Air, a Bahrain-based cargo airline and MRO provider, plays a critical role in supporting the logistical backbone behind the country's sporting and economic ambitions. The renewed deal highlights how aviation and equestrian sectors are working in tandem to advance Bahrain's global standing in both logistics and sport.
Daily Tribune
a day ago
- Daily Tribune
Tamkeen backs youth-centric jobs push in 2025 strategy
TDT| Manama Tamkeen is placing Bahraini youth at the core of its new 2025 strategy, with a focus on aligning skills training and employment initiatives to better match labour market demands. The move was underscored by Tamkeen Chief Executive Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, who affirmed the Fund's ongoing commitment to youth development through targeted programmes. Mofeez said the strategy echoes the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and follows the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to prioritise youth inclusion in national development. Royal patronage recognised She credited His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of HM the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, for driving initiatives such as 'Youth City 2030'. HH Shaikh Nasser has supported the programme since its inception, helping to foster an environment of innovation and creativity among young Bahrainis. Now in its 14th edition, 'Youth City 2030' has grown into a key pillar of Bahrain's youth policy. Mofeez described the initiative's evolution as a result of a strong partnership between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Tamkeen, enabling the creation of sustainable programmes to build national capabilities. Labour market synergy She emphasised that Tamkeen's future plans, guided by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of the Prime Minister's Court and Chairman of Tamkeen's Board of Directors, will continue to support individuals and enterprises in ways that align with both youth needs and labour market realities. That includes not just helping young Bahrainis secure jobs, but also providing pathways into entrepreneurship through access to skills and funding. The 2025 strategy reflects Tamkeen's broader priorities of enhancing the competitiveness of Bahrainis in the private sector, promoting institutional growth and sustainability, and accelerating digitisation. It aims to equip the next generation with career-ready skills and open opportunities for leadership across multiple sectors.
