logo
#

Latest news with #DubaiMetroBlueLine

395 million used public transport in 6 months
395 million used public transport in 6 months

Gulf Today

timea day ago

  • Business
  • Gulf Today

395 million used public transport in 6 months

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that public transport modes — including Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses, and marine transport — along with taxis and shared mobility options such as app-based vehicles, hourly rentals, and on-demand buses, served approximately 395.3 million riders in the first half of 2025. This represents a 9% increase compared to around 361.2 million riders during the same period in 2024. Average daily ridership reached nearly 2.18 million, up from approximately 1.98 million in the first half of 2024. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said: 'The continued growth in public transport ridership reflects users' confidence in the system's efficiency and the quality of services provided across all modes. We remain committed to delivering safe, comfortable, and sustainable mobility solutions for every segment of society.' He added: 'Dubai's public transport network has undergone a major transformation, driven by advanced infrastructure and a diverse range of transit options that now form the backbone of mobility for residents and visitors across the emirate. As a result, the share of journeys using public transport and shared mobility has increased from 6% in 2006 to 21.6% in 2024.' 'We are moving forward with a clear vision to make public transport the preferred choice for daily commuting by smartly expanding transport lines and networks, strengthening connectivity between stations and key destinations, and offering flexible, inclusive mobility solutions,' Al Tayer revealed. 'The Construction of Dubai Metro Blue Line is currently underway. Spanning 30 kilometres and comprising 14 stations, the line will serve nine key districts with a combined estimated population of one million residents, in alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Plan.' Al Tayer continued: 'Earlier, RTA signed four agreements to procure 637 multi-sized buses compliant with the European low-emission standard 'Euro 6,' including 40 electric buses — the largest and first fleet of its kind in the UAE. The buses will be delivered in 2025 and 2026 and will support the geographic expansion of the public bus network across the emirate. They also align with our strategic objective to convert the entire public bus fleet to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2050. This month, we completed the development of 16 bus passenger stations and six depots, as part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of services provided to all users.' Al Tayer explained that Dubai Metro and taxis recorded the highest share of ridership in the first half of this year, with the Metro accounting for 36.5% and taxis for 26%. Public buses made up 24% of the total. He noted that May registered the highest monthly ridership, reaching 68.8 million, while figures for the other months ranged between 61 and 68 million. 'There was a 9% increase in ridership during the first half of this year compared to the same period in 2024, a key indicator of the recovery in economic activity across the emirate of Dubai, as well as the effectiveness of the RTA's strategies and initiatives to encourage both residents and visitors to use public transport and to offer diverse mobility options throughout the city,' he said. 'Dubai's public transport network, with all components operating in full integration, serves as the backbone of mobility across the emirate. It has succeeded in fostering a positive shift in public attitudes toward mass transit across all segments of society,' he added. The number of Dubai Metro users across both the Red and Green Lines reached approximately 143.9 million riders during the first half of 2025. BurJuman and Al Rigga stations recorded the highest ridership volumes, with BurJuman Station (serving both the Red and Green Lines) registering 8.6 million riders, followed by Al Rigga Station with 6.8 million.

In just six months, Dubai's transport system carried more people than the entire US population
In just six months, Dubai's transport system carried more people than the entire US population

Time of India

time2 days ago

  • Business
  • Time of India

In just six months, Dubai's transport system carried more people than the entire US population

TL;DR Dubai saw 395.3 million public transport rides in H1 2025, up 9% from 2024. Metro (36.5%) and taxis (26%) made up most of the ridership. The new Blue Line will serve 1M residents across 14 stations. Dubai aims for a fully electric/hydrogen bus fleet by 2050. It's remarkable to consider that Dubai, a city with a population of roughly 11.3 million, recorded an astonishing 395 million public transport rides in just the first half of 2025. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now To put this into perspective, this figure surpasses the entire population of the United States, around 347 million, by a significant margin. In fact, the number of rides is about 35 times greater than the total population of the UAE itself. This striking statistic offers a glimpse into Dubai's rapidly evolving public transport landscape, revealing a system that has become integral to daily life for residents and visitors alike. Dubai's Public Transport: A Growing Backbone of Mobility On July 27, 2025, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the impressive figures for public transport ridership during the first six months of the year. The numbers span across multiple transport modes including the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram, public buses, marine transport, as well as taxis and shared mobility options such as app-based vehicles, hourly rentals, and on-demand buses. The total ridership reached approximately 395.3 million, marking a 9% increase over the roughly 361.2 million rides recorded during the same period in 2024. Average daily ridership climbed to nearly 2.18 million, up from about 1.98 million daily rides the previous year. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, emphasized the importance of this growth. He said, 'The continued growth in public transport ridership reflects users' confidence in the system's efficiency and the quality of services provided across all modes. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now We remain committed to delivering safe, comfortable, and sustainable mobility solutions for every segment of society. ' Al Tayer highlighted that Dubai's public transport network has undergone a major transformation. 'Driven by advanced infrastructure and a diverse range of transit options,' he explained, 'the network now forms the backbone of mobility for residents and visitors across the emirate.' Notably, the share of journeys using public transport and shared mobility options has increased from just 6% in 2006 to 21.6% in 2024, a clear indication of shifting public attitudes toward sustainable and convenient mass transit. Expanding Infrastructure and Environmental Commitments Looking ahead, Dubai is actively expanding its transit system. The ongoing construction of the Dubai Metro Blue Line is a major project, set to add 30 kilometers and 14 new stations. The line will serve nine key districts housing an estimated combined population of one million residents, aligning with the broader Dubai 2040 Urban Plan. Al Tayer revealed that the RTA is pursuing a strategic vision to make public transport the preferred choice for daily commuting. 'We are moving forward with a clear vision to make public transport the preferred choice by smartly expanding transport lines and networks, strengthening connectivity between stations and key destinations, and offering flexible, inclusive mobility solutions.' In line with environmental goals, the RTA recently signed four agreements to procure 637 multi-sized buses compliant with the European low-emission standard 'Euro 6.' This includes 40 electric buses, making it the largest and first fleet of its kind in the UAE. These buses, expected to be delivered in 2025 and 2026, will support geographic expansion and help achieve the long-term target of converting the entire public bus fleet to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2050. This month, the RTA also completed the development of 16 bus passenger stations and six depots to enhance service quality. Ridership Breakdown: Metro, Taxis, and More During the first half of 2025, the Dubai Metro and taxis accounted for the largest shares of ridership, contributing 36.5% and 26% of total trips respectively. Public buses remained vital, making up 24% of overall ridership. May was the busiest month, with ridership peaking at 68.8 million trips, while the other months ranged between 61 million and 68 million rides. Reflecting on these figures, Mattar Al Tayer said: 'There was a 9% increase in ridership during the first half of this year compared to the same period in 2024, a key indicator of the recovery in economic activity across the emirate of Dubai, as well as the effectiveness of the RTA's strategies and initiatives to encourage both residents and visitors to use public transport and to offer diverse mobility options throughout the city.' Breaking down the metro ridership further, the Dubai Metro recorded approximately 143.9 million riders across its Red and Green Lines. The stations with the highest traffic were: BurJuman Station (serving both lines) with 8.6 million riders Al Rigga Station with 6.8 million riders with 6.8 million riders Union Station with 6.6 million riders On the Red Line, the busiest stations after Al Rigga were: Mall of the Emirates Station with 5.6 million riders Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station with 5.4 million riders Business Bay Station with 5.3 million riders On the Green Line, the most popular stations included: Sharaf DG Station with 5.1 million riders Baniyas Station with 4.1 million riders Stadium Station with approximately 3.6 million riders Additional modes of transport contributed significantly as well. The Dubai Tram carried 4.9 million riders, while public buses served 95.7 million passengers. Marine transport modes collectively transported 9.7 million users, shared mobility services—including app-based vehicles and on-demand buses, accounted for 37.6 million rides, and taxis carried 103.5 million riders during this period. The Dubai Metro Blue Line: A Landmark Development The Dubai Metro Blue Line is poised to become a vital addition to the city's transport network. Stretching 30 kilometers with 14 stations, it will improve connectivity between key areas such as Mirdif, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Dubai Festival City. The line is designed to handle a maximum capacity of over 850,000 passengers per day, with projections estimating 200,000 daily passengers by 2030 and 320,000 by 2040. A notable highlight is the Emaar Properties station, which will be the tallest metro station in the world at 74 meters high, symbolizing Dubai's ambition to combine cutting-edge infrastructure with architectural excellence. Dubai's public transport success story is a testament to visionary planning, significant investment, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. From a modest 6% public transport share in 2006 to becoming a city where nearly 2.2 million rides are taken daily in 2025, Dubai is redefining urban mobility on a scale that rivals entire nations.

Etihad Rail update: Sharjah announces temporary road closures
Etihad Rail update: Sharjah announces temporary road closures

What's On

time22-07-2025

  • Automotive
  • What's On

Etihad Rail update: Sharjah announces temporary road closures

It's full speed ahead for the Etihad Rail project in the UAE. In order to get construction work completed for the launch in 2026, a number of roads will be temporarily closed as work progresses across the seven emirates. The latest road closure announced was Mleiha Road in Sharjah. Roadworks have been in full swing in the cultural city, with the emirate announcing a two-month road closure of streets connecting Mleiha Road and Sharjah Ring Road, near University Bridge. The closure is expected to last until August 30, 2025. How will the Etihad Rail benefit Sharjah residents? Those who make the regular commute between Dubai and Sharjah (and other emirates) face bumper-to-bumper traffic, especially during peak hours. When the Etihad Rail opens, many will opt for this mode of transportation, which will get them to their destination a lot quicker. This, in turn, will also get cars off the road, reducing traffic for those who do opt to stick to their cars. Other road closures announced Dubai Metro Red Line In Dubai, there are also the Dubai Metro Blue Line, which is also making progress to meet its target opening date of September 9, 2029. Similar to the Etihad Rail, a number of roads in Dubai will have to be temporarily closed as construction takes place. *Here's everything we know about the Dubai Metro Blue Line* This includes Mirdif, a neighbourhood in Eastern Dubai. The closures include the roundabout intersection between 5th and 8th Street near City Centre Mirdif. Cars will be diverted from 5th to 8th towards City Centre Mirdif, and vice versa from 8th to 5th Street towards Algeria Street. Mall visitors will have to use an alternative route to access the parking area. In another part of the city, closures have been announced in Dubai Academy City. The diversions include the closing of 63 Street in both directions in front of the German International School. Alternative entry and exit points have been provided for the school. Want to keep up with the progress on the Etihad Rail? Bookmark this link for all the latest updates. Images: Etihad Rail and RTA > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

Dubai Metro Blue Line: Academic City traffic diversions announced
Dubai Metro Blue Line: Academic City traffic diversions announced

What's On

time21-07-2025

  • What's On

Dubai Metro Blue Line: Academic City traffic diversions announced

As you may know, the Dubai Metro network is undergoing a major expansion with the addition of the Blue Line. However, in order to get the construction done, drivers are going to face some temporary road changes. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) that one of the major diversions will impact Academic City, so take note if it's a neighbourhood you're planning on visiting. Here's what you need to know 63rd Street, located in front of the German International School Dubai, will be closed in both directions Access to Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Street will remain open, but expect reroutes The German International School will also have a new entry and exit route to accommodate the changes The RTA is urging motorists to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and use alternative routes to avoid delays during peak hours. The diversions are part of the city's ambitious transport expansion plans, with the Blue Line set to connect key residential and commercial areas once complete. Stay tuned for more updates on the Blue Line and how it'll transform your future commute. *Here's everything we know about the Dubai Metro Blue Line* More on the Dubai Metro Blue Line For those who love to hop on the Dubai Metro for their travel needs, the Dubai Metro Blue Line comes as good news. The project was revived back in November 2024 (after first being proposed in 2006), and construction is already underway, with completion slated for 2029. The Blue Line will be the latest addition to the city's growing public transport network, joining the existing Red and Green lines. So, what areas will the new line cover? The Blue Line is set to connect nine major communities across the city, including Dubai International Airport Mirdif Al Warqa International City (Phases 1 & 2) Dubai Silicon Oasis Academic City Ras Al Khor Industrial Area Dubai Creek Harbour Dubai Festival City The project is part of RTA's wider plan to make public transport even more accessible and efficient for residents and visitors alike. Stay tuned to What's On for the latest updates as the Blue Line gets rolling > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

UAE announces road closures amid construction for Etihad Rail, Dubai Metro Blue Line
UAE announces road closures amid construction for Etihad Rail, Dubai Metro Blue Line

Khaleej Times

time21-07-2025

  • Business
  • Khaleej Times

UAE announces road closures amid construction for Etihad Rail, Dubai Metro Blue Line

With major public transport projects underway in the Emirates, authorities have announced closures of key exits and streets, with diversions conveniently created to ensure that traffic flow is not impeded. The Dubai Metro Blue Line and Etihad Rail are the two landmark projects that residents eagerly await, as they promise to decrease the country's dependence on private vehicles, and improve commute times. The two projects not only improve transport quality, but can also have an impact on residents' quality of life, freeing up time usually spent in traffic. Commuters have previously expressed grievances, with residents losing up to 'one day a month' stuck on the country's roads. Sharjah closures on Mleiha Road With Etihad Rail poised to connect all seven emirates, and link the country with the wider GCC region, road works have been in full swing in Sharjah. The national railway network will be a relief for Sharjah residents who often commute to other emirates, mostly Dubai, for work, and spend hours of their day in bumper-to-bumper traffic. To create the infrastructure needed for the landmark project, the emirate announced a 2-month closure of streets connecting Mleiha Road and Sharjah Ring Road, near University Bridge. The closure, which began on Tuesday, July 1, will last until Saturday, August 30. Mirdif closures in Dubai Dubai Metro Blue Line created a buzz when Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum laid the foundation stone for its first station, which is also the world's tallest metro station. Read the Khaleej Times report to take a look at the Emaar Properties station's stunning design. To enable the metro line to connect key areas in the emirate, traffic diversions have been announced at Mirdif. These are expected in two parts of the area: The roundabout intersection between 5th and 8th Street near City Centre Mirdif will be closed, with a diversion from 5th to 8th towards City Centre Mirdif, and vice versa from 8th to 5th Street towards Algeria Street. The RTA will be providing an alternative access road to the parking area for mall visitors, with a U-turn for residents near 'Ghoroob Square' for traffic flow coming from City Centre Mirdif Street. The new project is set to transport passengers across the bustling city from September 9, 2029. It is the first metro line crossing the Dubai Creek; the Blue Line will connect residential areas to Dubai International Airport in just 20 minutes, and reduce traffic congestion by 20 per cent. A Khaleej Times report reveals all you need to know about the Dubai Metro Blue Line. Closures in Academic City With the Blue Line set to connect to Dubai Academy City, which is projected to accommodate over 50,000 university students by 2029, construction works are ongoing in the area. The diversions include closing 63 Street in both directions in front of the German Internartional School, with access to Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Street and providing alternative entry and exit points for the school. The Blue Line project also serves the aspirations of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to create a '20-minute city.' This concept ensures that more than 80 per cent of essential services are within a 20-minute travel time for residents.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store