Dubai Metro Blue Line project advances as tunnel boring machine completes 1.2km excavation
- Last updated: July 28, 2026 | 22:15
Construction on the Blue Line of the Dubai Metro continues, currently at a depth of 21 meters below ground in the International City area. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has successfully completed the first phase of excavation, covering a 1,200-meter stretch reaching up to Dragon Mart Station. The massive tunnel boring machine, named "Al Waqisha," is now set to move forward to the next phase, which involves a 1.4-kilometer extension towards Al Warqa Station.
During a media tour inside the project's tunnel, representatives witnessed the work being performed with the new 160-meter-long "Al Waqisha" machine and the cutting-edge engineering technologies being applied. They were also briefed on the progress at Dragon Mart Station, a significant stop on the Blue Line, which is being built to meet the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.
System Efficiency
The RTA highlighted that reaching these distances underscores the efficiency of the work system and the technologies implemented. This is particularly notable as the drilling machine functions within meticulously analyzed geological conditions, employing advanced equipment that ensures accurate trajectory and safe execution.
They explained that the daily average drilling rate ranges from 13 to 17 meters, with an average of 15 meters per day. Remarkably, however, it has attained record rates of up to 30 meters daily, attributed to favorable soil conditions, sophisticated engineering equipment, and the machine's efficiency specifically tailored for this project.
Speed of Completion
The speed of completion is influenced by several factors, such as soil characteristics, the precision of geological studies, and the capabilities of the drilling machine. It was clarified that the current machine was chosen after a thorough site evaluation to ensure peak performance levels.
The information revealed that the station near Dragon Mart spans an area of 22,480 square meters and involves 580 engineers, workers, and staff on site. Their work encompasses deep excavation phases, constructing retaining walls, gradually removing the soil, and carrying out internal construction tasks according to the station's approved design, ensuring future readiness to accommodate metro users.
The RTA also noted that the control room of the tunnel boring machine allows for monitoring all operational data, including tunnel path, alignment accuracy, and the mechanical characteristics of the machine through advanced digital systems. It operates continuously 24 hours a day, six days a week, with one day reserved for routine maintenance to ensure operational efficiency and steady progress as per the planned schedule.
The RTA highlighted that the tunnel boring machine (TBM) features cutting-edge technology, including a range of sensors providing real-time data on drilling conditions. This setup allows the operating team to detect potential changes early on and address them proactively to prevent any adverse effects.
The TBM has a drill bit with a diameter of 9.6 meters, while the internal tunnel diameter is 8.5 meters. As it progresses, the machine installs precast concrete segments to construct the tunnel, adhering to the highest engineering standards.
Specialised Teams
Over 2,000 engineers, workers, and staff are engaged in the Blue Line project at the World Trade City sites. These specialized teams are involved in all project phases, from drilling and station construction to engineering and operational tasks.