Dubai to Build World’s Highest Metro Station at 74 Metres on New Blue Line – A Landmark in Urban Transit
Dubai is set to break yet another world record with the construction of the world’s highest metro station as part of its newly launched Dubai Metro Blue Line project. Towering at an astonishing height of 74 metres, the upcoming Emaar Properties Station will not only redefine urban transit architecture but also mark a milestone in Dubai’s ever-expanding infrastructure. The foundation stone for this iconic project was laid by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who also approved the architectural design of the station during the ceremony.
Designed by the internationally renowned American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)—famous for architectural marvels like the Burj Khalifa, Sears Tower in Chicago, and the Olympic Tower in New York—the Emaar Properties Station draws inspiration from the concept of a “crossing gateway.” The design seamlessly integrates with Dubai’s urban landscape, combining futuristic vision with cultural resonance. Spanning approximately 11,000 square metres, the station is not only about setting height records but is also built to handle an enormous capacity of up to 160,000 passengers per day, with projections estimating more than 70,000 daily users by 2040.
The station’s interior design is a harmonious blend of luxury, tradition, and innovation. Materials such as Jura limestone, bronze metal wall panels, and granite flooring are meticulously chosen for their durability, environmental efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Glass ceiling panels at both lobby and platform levels allow natural light to flood the interiors, creating a bright, welcoming space for commuters. These design elements ensure the station remains resilient against Dubai’s extreme climate while providing a modern and comfortable environment.
This ambitious development is part of the larger expansion of the Dubai Metro system. With the completion of the Blue Line, the total length of the rail network will extend to 131 kilometres, comprising 78 stations and served by 168 trains—including 11 tram trains and 157 metro trains. This expansion reflects Dubai’s commitment to smart mobility and sustainable urban growth. Since its inauguration on September 9, 2009, Dubai Metro has carried over 2.527 billion passengers, a figure that continues to rise steadily. Daily ridership hit 900,000 in 2024, and projections suggest passenger numbers will exceed 300 million by 2026 and reach 320 million by 2031.
The evolution of the Dubai Metro is clearly visible in its ridership and infrastructure growth. In 2010, the system had 38.887 million passengers, which jumped to 69 million in 2011—a 77% increase. By 2012, over 109 million passengers were using the metro annually. In 2017, the ridership surpassed 200 million, reaching 260 million in 2023 and 275.4 million in 2024. Infrastructure has scaled accordingly, from just 10 stations and 16 trains in 2009 to 78 stations and 168 trains by 2029, with key milestones including the launch of the Dubai Tram in 2014 and Route 2020 in 2021.
In a significant branding initiative, Emaar Properties has secured the naming rights for the flagship station. For a period of 10 years starting from its expected inauguration in 2029, the station will officially be known as Emaar Properties Station. This move underscores the strategic collaboration between public infrastructure and private enterprise, positioning the station as both a transportation hub and a symbol of modern Dubai’s ambitions. Additional naming rights for other Blue Line stations will be announced in subsequent phases.
The Emaar Properties Station is more than just a metro stop—it is a testament to Dubai’s relentless pursuit of excellence in infrastructure, design, and urban planning. As the tallest metro station in the world, it sets a new global benchmark and reinforces the city’s role as a leader in smart urban development. From architectural grandeur to transportation efficiency, the station encapsulates everything that makes Dubai a model city for the future.
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