The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with Emaar Properties, has announced a major expansion of the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station, aimed at accommodating the growing number of residents and tourists visiting Downtown Dubai. Once completed, the upgraded station will be able to serve up to 220,000 passengers per day, with capacity increasing by 65% from 7,250 to 12,320 passengers per hour.
The station area will expand from 6,700 square metres to 8,500 square metres, with a design that prioritises accessibility, efficient passenger movement, and integration with other modes of transport including pedestrian walkways, e-scooters, and bicycles.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, emphasized the station’s significance:
“Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station is one of the most important stations of the Dubai Metro, given its vital location near Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Downtown Dubai… The station’s expansion aims to accommodate the continuous growth in the number of passengers, and the expected increase until 2040.”
Al Tayer noted that the station plays a crucial role in managing large crowds during key occasions like New Year’s Eve, when it serves over 110,000 passengers in a single night. Passenger numbers at the station have shown consistent growth — from 6.13 million in 2013 to over 10.57 million in 2024, with an average of 58,000 daily users last year.
Key Features of the Expansion:
- Larger concourse and platform areas
- Improved access with new pedestrian bridges and entrances
- More stairs, elevators, and fare gates
- Separated entry and exit gates for smoother flow
- Increased retail and investment zones
- Integration with other transport options and landscaping enhancements
The station’s architectural design will remain consistent with the iconic shell-like style of the Red and Green Line elevated stations, with a focus on clarity, safety, accessibility, and short travel distances within the facility.
The expansion is part of Dubai’s long-term urban transit vision and reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to enhancing public transport infrastructure to meet future demand.