The Dubai Loop initiative is poised to enhance urban transportation in the Middle East by establishing a sophisticated underground transit network that facilitates seamless first-and-last-mile connectivity. Recently, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Deputy Prime Minister, convened with Steve Davis, President of The Boring Company, to review the project’s developments.
The discussions centered on the current status of the tunnel project, which is projected to cost approximately AED 2 billion (around Rs 5,000 crore) within the emirate.
Earlier this year, during the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2026, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) entered into a strategic partnership with The Boring Company, a US firm founded by Elon Musk. This collaboration aims to finalize the design and initiate mobilization efforts for the project.
The Dubai Loop is designed as an underground transit system utilizing electric vehicles to link various regions within the emirate. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the project seeks to enhance transportation efficiency and alleviate traffic congestion in heavily populated urban locales.
The Boring Company describes the Loop as a rapid public transport system that functions more like an underground highway than a traditional metro. The initiative is intended to offer adaptable urban mobility, connect significant hubs and areas, and align with Dubai’s commitment to innovative and sustainable transportation solutions.
The RTA has indicated that various studies underscore the potential of the Dubai Loop in terms of passenger capacity and operational expenses. The initial phase is anticipated to accommodate approximately 13,000 passengers daily, while the complete route is estimated to serve around 30,000 passengers each day.
As per the latest updates, significant progress has been made since the agreement was formalized in February. Concurrent technical and engineering tasks are underway, including the assembly of the tunnel boring machine (TBM) and the production of concrete segments for tunnel lining.
The first phase of the Dubai Loop will kick off with the construction of a 6.4 km pilot route, which will feature four stations connecting the Dubai International Financial Centre to Dubai Mall. This initial segment will lay the groundwork for the complete alignment, extending 22.2 km and comprising 19 stations linking the Dubai World Trade Centre and the financial district with Business Bay.
According to The Boring Company, the project entails the creation of tunnels with a diameter of 12 feet (3.6 meters), specifically designed for vehicle transit. These tunnels will be constructed utilizing advanced tunneling technologies that promise expedited delivery, reduced construction costs, and minimal disruption to existing roadways and utilities compared to conventional transport systems.
Anish Mondal, a journalist with over nine years of experience in transportation reporting, currently contributes to the editorial team at Indianexpress.com, focusing on significant sectors.
His professional journey began at Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he gained essential insights into legislative processes and governance. In 2018, he shifted to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, where he honed his skills in market analysis and corporate reporting for nearly six years. Prior to joining The Indian Express in 2025, he played a vital role at ETNowNews.com.
Anish holds a strong educational foundation in communication and the humanities, including a Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication from Apeejay Stya University, a Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production from Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication, and a Bachelor’s degree in English Honours from the University of Calcutta.
His reporting encompasses various areas, particularly the expansion of the Indian Railways and National Highway networks.
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