Everything to know about Dubai’s upcoming underground transport system

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Render of Dubai Loop entrances

Dubai is set to introduce a new high-speed underground tunnel network in Downtown Dubai, designed to provide uninterrupted, non-stop travel in high-density areas. Dubbed the Dubai Loop, the project will be built in partnership with The Boring Company, the group behind the first-ever loop in Las Vegas, marking the developer’s first venture outside the US.

The project’s pilot phase will feature a 6.4km route with four stations, connecting Dubai International Financial Centre and Dubai Mall. The initial development will cost AED565 million and is expected to be completed within one year. Phase two will follow, expanding the network to more than 22km and 19 stations, linking key hubs such as Business Bay and Dubai World Trade Centre.

Render of Dubai Loop underground stations

Tunnels will be built with a diameter of 3.6 metres and serviced by Tesla vehicles. A total of 13,000 passengers per day are expected during the launch period, rising to 30,000 daily once the network reaches full capacity.

Commenting on the initiative, Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, said: “The project represents a qualitative addition to Dubai’s transport ecosystem, as it enhances integration between different mobility modes and provides flexible and efficient first- and last-mile solutions.”

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Dubai Loop’s development comes amid a wave of transportation upgrades in the emirate, providing new ways to travel across the city.

One of the most-awaited projects is Etihad Rail, whose passenger service is set to commence in 2026. The train will cut travel time between Dubai and Abu Dhabi to under one hour, with planned expansions for all seven emirates.

The Dubai Metro will also undergo an expansion, with a new 30km Blue Line planned for 2029, connecting the city’s eastern neighbourhoods, including Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubai International City. This will be the first metro advancement since the launch of Route 2020, which links Jebel Ali and Expo City.

Alongside road and rail transport, Dubai will launch commercial electric air taxi services (eVTOL) in 2026, with ports at downtown, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Dubai International Airport (DXB).

For more information, visit rta.ae