Dubai Metro will be extended to Al Maktoum International Airport City under an AED2 billion project that will add two stations along a three-kilometre route, with passenger services scheduled to begin in 2031.
The extension, which will connect Route 2020 to the airport’s West Terminal, was approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.
The project will also provide links to the airport express line and Etihad Rail’s high-speed rail network, improving access for airport passengers, employees and visitors while easing traffic on surrounding roads and connecting the airport with urban centres across Dubai.
The Metro extension will be developed through collaboration between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Dubai Engineering Projects Establishment.
The approval came during a meeting of The Executive Council held as part of the UAE Annual Government Meetings 2026, where Sheikh Hamdan also approved an AED9.59 billion plan to develop community services and facilities through 2040, bringing the combined allocation for the two projects to AED11.59 billion.
The Council also approved the findings of a study on the future of Dubai’s real estate market and an investment policy covering endowments and minors’ funds.
Dubai Metro extension to connect with airport express and Etihad Rail
Sheikh Hamdan said the Metro extension forms part of Dubai’s plans to develop transport infrastructure alongside the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport City.
“Al Maktoum International Airport City is one of our most significant strategic projects, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub. The extension is part of an integrated transport system that matches the ambitions of this global project. We continue to invest in infrastructure that anticipates future aspirations, connects the emirate and strengthens Dubai’s competitiveness,” he said in a statement.
The three-kilometre route will connect Route 2020 to the West Terminal of Al Maktoum International Airport through two stations.
The connection with the airport express line and Etihad Rail’s high-speed rail network will support passenger movement between the airport and other transport networks.
The project is also intended to improve traffic flow around the airport and provide transport access to surrounding developments as the airport city expands.
Dubai approves AED9.59 billion community facilities plan through 2040
The Executive Council approved an AED9.59 billion plan to develop community services and facilities across Dubai through 2040.
The plan aims to ensure the distribution of public services across existing and planned residential communities, addressing the needs of citizens and residents as the emirate continues to grow.
Implementation will take place in phases under the supervision of the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning in Dubai, in coordination with Dubai Municipality.
Residential areas for Emirati citizens will be prioritised during implementation.
The programme will include facilities for safety, security, healthcare, education and sports, alongside amenities for senior Emiratis and spaces for family and community activities.
It will be implemented in line with the Dubai Social Agenda 33 and Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, with the aim of improving access to services, meeting the needs of different generations, supporting family bonds and strengthening social cohesion.
Sheikh Hamdan said: “The stability and prosperity of our community remain our priority. We approved a comprehensive plan to develop integrated public services and facilities that foster social cohesion. Our goal is for the people of Dubai to experience the benefits of the city’s growth in their everyday lives.”
He said Dubai’s infrastructure and community development plans were guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The projects will contribute to Dubai Plan 2033, which encompasses the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and Dubai Social Agenda 33, by translating development priorities into projects that address the emirate’s growth.
Dubai real estate occupancy reaches 97% as 365,000 homes projected by 2030
The Executive Council also approved the findings of a study conducted by the Dubai Land Department on the future of Dubai’s real estate market.
The study revealed that residential occupancy stands at 97%, while retail occupancy has reached 98% and office occupancy stands at 94%.
It projects the development of 365,000 residential units and approximately 1.1 million square metres of office and retail space by 2030.
The findings are intended to provide developers with information to guide investment and development decisions, improve project quality, accelerate project delivery and strengthen investor confidence.
The study supports the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, which aims to double the property sector’s contribution to Dubai’s gross domestic product (GDP) to AED73 billion.
The strategy also targets a 70% increase in the volume of real estate transactions, bringing the market’s total value to AED1 trillion, alongside a doubling of the value of real estate portfolios to AED20 billion.
“Dubai’s real estate sector continues to demonstrate strong, resilient performance, bolstered by investor confidence and diverse range of investment opportunities. The findings of the new study will guide policy and development decisions made with the private sector, supporting the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033 and further solidifying Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most competitive and sustainable real estate markets,” Sheikh Hamdan added.
The study uses market indicators to inform policies, respond to changes in demand and maintain a balance between supply and demand.
This approach is supported by a regulatory framework that can adapt to market conditions, digital services and partnerships with developers and investors.
Awqaf Dubai targets AED10 billion increase in real estate portfolio by 2030
The Council also approved an investment policy for endowments and minors’ funds managed by The Endowment and Minors’ Trust Foundation in Dubai (Awqaf Dubai).
The policy targets an AED10 billion increase in the value of the foundation’s real estate portfolio by 2030, alongside growth of more than 35% in its securities portfolio.
It focuses on protecting and growing assets, managing investment risks, generating returns and increasing private sector participation in accordance with Sharia principles.
The investment strategy will cover residential, commercial, healthcare, industrial and educational developments, as well as exhibition and sports facilities, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Sheikh Hamdan said endowment assets in Dubai had reached AED13.5 billion in 2025, highlighting the importance of protecting the assets and generating returns for beneficiaries and future generations.
“Dubai has established a pioneering model for endowment initiatives and the management of minors’ funds, with endowment assets reaching AED13.5 billion in 2025. We remain committed to advancing this model to safeguard and grow the assets while optimising their social impact. We have directed Awqaf Dubai to diversify the investment portfolio and strengthen private sector partnerships, securing sustainable returns for beneficiaries and the wider community,” he said.
The policy aligns with the economic and social priorities of Dubai Plan 2033 and seeks to increase the value of endowment investments while ensuring returns continue to support beneficiaries and community needs.
The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
The decisions cover Metro connectivity, community facilities, property market planning and investment management as Dubai implements its development plans through 2033 and 2040.
