Dubai will extend its Metro network to Al Maktoum International Airport City through a Dhs 2 billion project featuring two new stations, with services expected to begin in 2031.
The 3km extension will connect the existing Route 2020 line to the airport city, improving access for passengers, airport employees and visitors.
The project was approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, as part of the emirate’s wider infrastructure expansion plans.
Dubai Metro extension details
The new Metro extension will link Route 2020 to Al Maktoum International Airport City through two additional stations.
The project will be developed in collaboration between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Dubai Engineering Projects Establishment.
Once operational, the extended route will connect to the West Terminal of Al Maktoum International Airport, as well as the airport express line and Etihad Rail’s high-speed rail network.
The new connection is expected to make airport journeys easier, improve access to surrounding urban centres and help manage traffic on nearby roads.
Dubai approves Dhs 9.59 billion community development plan
Alongside the Metro extension, Sheikh Hamdan approved a Dhs 9.59 billion plan to develop public services and community facilities across Dubai through 2040.
The programme aims to ensure that existing and planned residential communities have access to essential facilities as the emirate’s population and urban areas grow.
It will include healthcare, education, safety and security facilities, sports amenities, services for senior Emiratis and spaces for family and community activities.
The plan will be supervised by the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning in Dubai, in coordination with Dubai Municipality. Implementation will take place in phases, with priority given to residential areas for Emiratis.
Sheikh Hamdan said: “The stability and prosperity of our community remain our 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.”
Dubai real estate market to add 365,000 homes by 2030
The Executive Council also reviewed findings from a Dubai Land Department study examining the future of the emirate’s property market.
The study projects the development of 365,000 new residential units and approximately 1.1 million square metres of office and retail space by 2030.
Current occupancy rates stand at 97% for residential properties, 98% for retail and 94% for offices.
The findings will support investment and development planning under the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, which aims to increase the sector’s contribution to Dubai’s GDP to Dhs 73 billion and raise the total value of real estate transactions to Dhs 1 trillion.
Sheikh Hamdan said: “Dubai’s real estate sector 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.”
Awqaf Dubai targets Dhs 10 billion portfolio growth
The meeting also reviewed a new investment policy for endowment assets and minors’ funds managed by The Endowment and Minors’ Trust Foundation in Dubai (Awqaf Dubai).
The policy targets a Dhs 10 billion increase in the value of its real estate portfolio by 2030, alongside growth of more than 35% in its securities portfolio.
The investment strategy will cover residential, commercial, healthcare, industrial and educational developments, as well as exhibition and sports facilities.
Awqaf Dubai will also focus on diversifying investments, managing risks and increasing private sector partnerships in line with Sharia principles.
Sheikh Hamdan said: “Dubai has established a pioneering model for endowment initiatives and the management of minors’ funds, with endowment assets reaching AED13.5 billion in 2025. We remain committed to advancing this model to safeguard and grow the assets while optimising their social impact. We have directed Awqaf Dubai to diversify the investment portfolio and strengthen private sector partnerships, securing sustainable returns for beneficiaries and the wider community.”
The decisions were approved during a meeting of Dubai’s Executive Council held as part of the UAE Annual Government Meetings 2026.
