Dubai Plans Airport Express Metro Line Linking DXB and DWC

DUBAI, UAE – Dubai is preparing for a major step forward in urban mobility with plans for a dedicated metro link connecting its two international airports, in what would mark a significant expansion of the emirate’s rapidly growing rail network.

According to a report by MEED, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has invited consultants to bid for a contract to study and design the proposed Airport Express Line, which is set to connect Dubai International Airport (DXB) in Al Garhoud with Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Jebel Ali.

The proposed line is expected to extend approximately 55 kilometres and include five stations, while introducing integrated passenger services such as remote airline check-in, baggage drop-off and security screening. The aim is to create a more seamless travel experience between Dubai’s two aviation gateways while strengthening the wider public transport network.

Consultants have until June to submit proposals for the project.

The Airport Express Line is expected to begin from the Red Line station at DXB, pass through Al Jaddaf, and continue along Al Khail Road to a new station at Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) before extending onwards to DWC.

In addition to the main route, two spur lines are also planned. One will connect the JVC station to the Al-Fardan Exchange Metro Station at Emirates Golf Club, while the second will branch towards Business Bay, where an additional station will be developed.

The alignment is understood to broadly mirror the route of the Etihad Rail high-speed railway project, which is currently under construction and targeted for completion by 2030.

The proposed Airport Express Line forms part of a broader wave of metro-related projects currently being tendered by the RTA. Tendering is also under way for the Route 2020 extension, which will connect the Expo 2020 Metro Station to DWC’s West Terminal.

That extension is expected to cover around 3 kilometres and include two stations, further enhancing connectivity to Dubai’s expanding aviation, logistics and business hub in the south of the emirate.

Taken together, the projects underline Dubai’s continued commitment to integrated transport infrastructure, as the city expands its metro system to support airport growth, urban development and long-term mobility demand.