Dubai plans new underground transport network

Dubai is set to introduce a groundbreaking underground transport network that will accommodate people, goods, and services. The integrated system is part of a broader strategy to revolutionize mobility both above and below ground, according to Mattar Al Tayer, director general of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). During a presentation at the Mohammed bin Rashid Leadership Forum, Al Tayer highlighted that a working team within the RTA is currently evaluating the proposed network, which could be a crucial component of the city’s larger transport infrastructure overhaul.

He emphasized that mobility will extend beyond traditional roads and public transportation to include three dimensions: the ground, the sky, and underground.

The plan aims to establish a more cohesive and forward-thinking transport system while reclaiming surface space for green areas, pedestrian traffic, and social gatherings. By transforming how space is utilized, the project seeks to generate new investment opportunities and foster a more efficient and sustainable mode of transportation.

Currently, Dubai sees over 11 million journeys on its roads daily, amounting to more than 7,000 journeys per minute. With the city's population expected to double to six million during daylight hours by 2040, the authorities are working to address the mounting demand.

Dubai's approach to transport planning is driven by a principle set by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Vice President and Ruler of Dubai: instead of anticipating the future, the emirate should actively create it. The RTA has set an ambitious goal for one in every four journeys in Dubai to be autonomous by 2030. Autonomous taxis have already traveled over four million kilometers in a year, according to Al Tayer.

Dubai is also advancing towards commercial urban air mobility, with the first air taxi station scheduled to open this year.

The announcement of this underground network is part of a series of recently unveiled transport projects focusing on Dubai's underground infrastructure. Earlier this year, it was reported that construction is underway for the Dubai Loop, a high-speed underground transport network developed in collaboration with Elon Musk’s Boring Company.

The goal is to alleviate congestion in the city. In February, the RTA revealed that the first phase of the project would cost Dh565 million ($153.8 million) and connect the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) with Dubai Mall using autonomous Tesla cars. The first four stations will be located in Burj Khalifa, DIFC 2, Zabeel Dubai Mall Parking, and ICD Brookfield Place.

Ultimately, the network is expected to span 22 kilometers and feature 19 stations, with an estimated final cost of around Dh2 billion.