Dubai approves $3.2bn community, Metro extension projects

11/11/2026 04:16 AST

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, today (November 10) approved a plan to develop community services and facilities through 2040 with a budget of AED9.59 billion ($2.61 billion), and the extension of the Dubai Metro to Al Maktoum International Airport City with a budget of AED2 billion ($544 million).

During a meeting held as part of the UAE Annual Government Meetings 2026, The Executive Council also approved the findings of a study on the future of Dubai's real estate market and the investment policy relating to endowments and minors' funds, reported Wam.

Sheikh Hamdan said the emirate continues to invest in future-ready infrastructure and integrated community services, turning the Dubai Plan 2033 that encompasses its Economic Agenda (D33) and Social Agenda 33 into projects that keep pace with the emirate's growth.

Sheikh Hamdan pointed out that the stability and prosperity of the community remained its top priority. "We approved a comprehensive plan to develop integrated public services and facilities that foster social cohesion. Our goal is for the people of Dubai to experience the benefits of the city's growth in their everyday lives," he added.

The Dubai Metro extension will give rise to a 3-km route with two new stations, linking Route 2020 to Al Maktoum International Airport City.

The project involves a collaboration between Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Dubai Engineering Projects Establishment. Services are scheduled to begin in 2031, said the Wam report.

The extended route will connect to the West Terminal of Al Maktoum International Airport, linking with the airport express line and Etihad Rail's high-speed rail network.

It will make travel easier for passengers, airport staff and visitors; improve traffic flow on surrounding roads, and ease access to urban centres across the emirate.

On the metro extension, Sheikh Hamdan said: "Al Maktoum International Airport City is one of our most significant strategic projects, reinforcing Dubai's position as a global aviation hub. The extension is part of an integrated transport system that matches the ambitions of this global project. We continue to invest in infrastructure that anticipates future aspirations, connects the emirate and strengthens Dubai's competitiveness."

Dubai's real estate sector, he stated, continues to demonstrate strong, resilient performance, bolstered by investor confidence and diverse range of investment opportunities.

The findings of the new study will guide policy and development decisions made with the private sector, supporting the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033 and further solidifying Dubai's position as one of the world's most competitive and sustainable real estate markets, he added.

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