Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, in partnership with Emaar Properties, will upgrade the Burj Khalifa–Dubai Mall Metro Station, increasing its footprint from 6,700 to 8,500 sq m and boosting hourly passenger capacity from 7,250 to 12,320 – a 65 per cent rise. The development aims to accommodate surges during high‑demand periods such as New Year’s Eve, public holidays and national events, projecting a daily throughput of up to 220,000 passengers.
The station, originally opened in January 2010 to coincide with the launch of Burj Khalifa, has seen ridership climb steadily—from 6.13 million boardings in 2013 to over 10.57 million in 2024, representing nearly 58,000 daily entries and exits. RTA Director‑General Mattar Al Tayer highlighted that the surge in metro use, particularly during peak events, necessitated this strategic enhancement.
The upgrade plan includes expanded concourse and platform areas, additional escalators and elevators, new entrances, pedestrian bridges and dedicated entry and exit gates. The number of fare barriers will rise, and commercial zones will be integrated to increase non‑fare revenue. Enhanced links to buses, bicycles, e‑scooters and pedestrian routes are also part of the design. Landscaping enhancements will complement improvements to passenger flow.
Architectural design will reflect the seashell motif common to the Red and Green metro lines, prioritising clarity and reduced walking distances. Universal accessibility is central to the project, with provisions for passengers of determination, senior citizens and those with strollers.
RTA’s long‑term mobility strategy anticipates sustained demand through to 2040. Passenger volumes on New Year’s Eve regularly exceed 110,000 at this location alone. Such figures underscore the station’s importance as a gateway to Downtown Dubai, home to iconic attractions including Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
