Dubai to expand Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station; here’s what it involves

Images: Dubai Media Office/ RTA

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with real estate developer Emaar Properties, has announced the expansion of the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station to accommodate surging passenger traffic, particularly during public holidays and high-profile events such as New Year’s Eve.

The expansion will increase the station’s total area from 6,700 to 8,500 square metres, boosting its hourly capacity by 65 per cent — from 7,250 to 12,320 passengers.

Once completed, the upgraded station will be able to serve up to 220,000 passengers per day, according to a statement by the RTA.

Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station —  A central hub

“The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is a key hub in the Dubai Metro network, thanks to its strategic location near Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Downtown Dubai,” said Mattar Al Tayer, DG and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA. “It serves as a convenient and efficient gateway for residents and visitors, particularly during large-scale events.”

Al Tayer added that the expansion is a response to sustained growth in ridership, with long-term demand projections extending through 2040.

Passenger traffic during New Year’s Eve alone exceeds 110,000, and the station has recorded an average annual ridership growth of 7.5 per cent over the past five years.

Key highlights of the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station; what to expect

Since its opening in 2010, the station has seen consistent increases in usage. Passenger numbers rose from 6.13 million in 2013 to 7.254 million in 2016, and 7.885 million in 2019.

By 2022, that figure had climbed to 8.827 million, surpassing 10.202 million in 2023 and 10.577 million in 2024, representing a daily average of nearly 58,000 passengers.

In addition to the increased floor area, the project includes improvements to station entrances, pedestrian bridges, concourse and platform areas, and the installation of more escalators and elevators.

Entry and exit gates will be separated to optimise passenger movement, while the number of fare gates and commercial spaces will also be increased to support higher throughput and revenue.

The design of the expanded station maintains the architectural identity of elevated Dubai Metro stations, inspired by the form of a seashell.

The interior focuses on clarity, safety, and ease of movement, with visual connectivity and reduced walking distances.

Entrances will be integrated with public transport and alternative mobility modes such as bicycles and e-scooters, and the station will ensure full inclusivity, catering to People of Determination, senior citizens, and families with strollers.

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