Main tunnelling work for Dubai's third metro line is now underway with Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum pushing the start button on the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), which Dubai Roads & Transport Authority has christened Al Wugeisha.
Starting from the International City 1 Station and heading to heading towards Mirdif, Al Wugeisha is the first TBM to start operating on the three-pronged Dubai Metro Blue Line tunnelling project.
Featuring a myriad of high-precision technologies designed bore through rock and sandy strata, the 163m long, 2000t machine incorporates a massive metal shield supported by a mechanical tail section.
At the front is a cutterhead, followed by a chamber whose configuration varies according to the excavation method, the geological strata being bored, and the soil conditions. Behind this are hydraulic jacks that generate the thrust needed to propel the machine forward at an average rate of 13 to 17m/d.
Al Wugeisha also includes a spoil removal system, slurry discharge pipelines, a control cabin, and other components designed to complete tunnelling work, without impacting the ground layers around the excavation zone.
Dubai's US$5.58 billion Metro Blue Line project is expected to be up and running by 2029, serving nine key districts with a population of around one million.
The new 30km line, of which 15.5m will be underground, will also feature 14 new stations and three interchange stations. It forms part of the Dubai's D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to position the Emirate among the world's fastest, safest, and most connected cities by 2033.
Speaking during start of excavation works in earlier this month, Sheikh Mohammed said the Dubai Metro Blue Line represents an extension of an integrated vision aimed at building a more connected, efficient and sustainable city.
"Our projects in Dubai are delivered to meet the highest international standards, guided by clear plans, precise timelines, and national talent capable of turning vision into tangible achievements in practice."
Contracts for the design, construction, testing and commissioning of the new line were signed in 2024 between the RTA and the MAPA–LİMAK–CRRC Consortium (MLCC).
The contract also included works to extend Dubai's existing Green Line by 135m.
The project is currently 20% complete, with MLCC having already started the construction of stations, and the installation of foundations and piles for a new bridge across Dubai Creek. The bridge is expected to begin taking shape next June.
In July last year, Parsons Corporation as part of a joint venture with AtkinsRéalis Group, announced it had been awarded the contract to provide Project Management Consultancy services.
At the time, Malek Ramadan Mishmish, RTA's Director of Rail Planning and Project Development, said: "The RTA is committed to working with leading global companies to implement its various projects and initiatives in line with the vision and ambitions of the Government of Dubai to make the Emirate the smartest and happiest city in the world."
