RTA and Emaar Sign Agreement to Expand Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station
Dubai continues to invest decisively in world-class mobility infrastructure at the heart of its urban core. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a strategic agreement with Emaar Properties to expand Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station, responding to sustained growth in passenger demand driven by tourism, major events, and population growth.
The expansion supports Dubai’s long-term vision for seamless mobility, enhanced quality of life, and readiness to host global-scale events, particularly in Downtown Dubai — one of the most visited urban districts in the world.
Project Scope and Key Enhancements
The project will increase the station’s total built-up area from 6,700 square metres to 8,500 square metres, delivering a comprehensive upgrade to passenger movement, safety, and comfort. Key improvements include:
Expansion of concourse and platform areas
Enhanced station entrances and pedestrian bridges
Addition of new escalators and lifts
Separation of entry and exit gates to improve passenger flow
Increase in the number of fare gates
Expansion of commercial areas to support revenue generation
Integration with public transport services and other mobility modes
Landscaping and urban realm enhancements
These upgrades are designed to significantly reduce congestion during peak periods such as New Year’s Eve celebrations, national and religious holidays, and major city-wide events.
Capacity Increase: Built for Peak Demand
Following completion, the station’s handling capacity will increase from 7,250 passengers per hour to 12,320 passengers per hour, representing a 65% capacity uplift. Daily capacity will reach up to 220,000 passengers, positioning the station to comfortably accommodate future growth in ridership.
This expansion is particularly critical given the station’s role as the primary gateway to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Downtown Dubai — destinations that attract millions of visitors every year.
Public–Private Partnership in Action
The agreement was signed by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, and His Excellency Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar and Noon, and Chairman of Eagle Hills. The signing took place during the Dubai World Project Management Forum, attended by senior officials from both entities.
H.E. Mattar Al Tayer highlighted that the partnership reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, enabling the delivery of advanced infrastructure aligned with Dubai’s rapid development and global ambitions.
He noted that expanding the station represents a strategic investment in Dubai’s most active urban zone, ensuring smooth traffic flow, enhanced safety, and efficient passenger movement during peak demand periods, while supporting growth through to 2040.
Enhancing User Experience in Downtown Dubai
As one of the busiest stations on the Dubai Metro network, Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station plays a vital role in serving residents, tourists, and professionals. The expansion will deliver a qualitative leap in service standards, improving:
Passenger comfort and safety
Flow efficiency during high-density events
Accessibility for people of determination, senior citizens, and families
The station has recorded 7.5% growth in passenger numbers over the past five years, underlining the necessity of proactive infrastructure planning.
Emaar: Investing in Quality of Life
H.E. Mohamed Alabbar emphasised that the project aligns with Emaar’s vision of people-centric urban destinations, where ease of access and seamless mobility are integral to design and planning.
He noted that the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall precinct represents more than a commercial and tourism hub — it is the vibrant heart of a global city. Expanding the metro station is a direct investment in quality of life, reducing travel times, improving accessibility, and enhancing the visitor experience during peak seasons such as New Year’s Eve.
The partnership with RTA stands as a successful model of public–private collaboration, supporting sustainable urban growth and reinforcing Downtown Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most accessible and attractive urban destinations.
Strong Ridership Growth
Passenger numbers at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station have shown consistent long-term growth:
6.13 million passengers in 2013
7.254 million in 2016
7.885 million in 2019
8.827 million in 2022
10.202 million in 2023
Over 10.57 million passengers in 2024, approaching 11 million annually
Average daily ridership now exceeds 56,000 passengers, further validating the need for expansion.
Station Design and Accessibility
The station’s architectural design remains consistent with elevated Dubai Metro stations on the Red and Green Lines, featuring a shell-inspired structure. Interior design prioritises safety, clarity, and efficient passenger movement, while minimising walking distances and maintaining strong visual connectivity.
At ground level, the station integrates seamlessly with buses, taxis, bicycles, electric scooters, and pedestrian routes. The design fully accommodates people of determination, senior citizens, and families with prams, ensuring inclusive and barrier-free access for all users.
A Strategic Upgrade for Dubai’s Urban Core
The expansion of Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is a forward-looking infrastructure investment that reinforces Dubai’s readiness for future growth. By enhancing capacity at one of the city’s most critical transport hubs, the project strengthens Downtown Dubai’s accessibility, supports tourism and economic activity, and elevates everyday urban mobility in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.