Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority has received six proposals for the study and design of the Dubai Airport Express Line, a 55km rail link that would connect Dubai International (DXB) with Al Maktoum International (DWC).
The bidders are AECOM with Surbana Jurong, AtkinsRéalis, Jacobs, Parsons with Arup, Systra with Egis and WSP — all firms with existing infrastructure work in the country, including on Etihad Rail, the Dubai Metro and Expo 2020. RTA issued the tender for study and design services this year; an initial June deadline was pushed to July 8.
Dubai Airport Express Line route and stations
The line would start at the existing Red Line station serving DXB in Al Garhoud, run through Al Jaddaf and along Al Khail Road to a new station at Jumeirah Village Circle, then continue to DWC in Dubai South. Five stations are planned.
Two branches would extend the reach from JVC: one to Al Fardan Exchange station near Emirates Golf Club, and one towards Business Bay. JVC also sits on the approved Gold Line, giving the network another interchange.
Station plans include remote airline check-in, baggage drop and security screening — the airport processing moves onto the rail journey itself.
The Airport Express Line is separate from the planned extension of the Route 2020 line from Expo City towards DWC, which covers about three kilometres and two stations.
Why the line matters
The connection comes as Dubai prepares to shift airport operations from DXB to DWC, with the first phase targeted for 2032 and ultimate capacity of 260 million passengers a year. DXB alone carried 95.2 million passengers in 2025, and the metro is the rail backbone: 295 million journeys last year, up 7 per cent.
RTA has not confirmed a construction timetable, contract value or opening date for the line. Etihad Rail opens its Dubai station at the end of September — the first rail service to the emirate — but the airport link is a longer game.
Arabian Business first reported the Airport Express Line procurement, with The National covering the six-bidder shortlist and route.
What is the Dubai Airport Express Line?
A proposed 55km rail line connecting Dubai International (DXB) with Al Maktoum International (DWC), with five stations and branches towards Business Bay and Emirates Golf Club.
When will the Dubai Airport Express Line open?
There is no confirmed date. RTA has only received study and design proposals so far, and has not announced a construction timetable or opening date.
Will the Airport Express Line have check-in facilities?
Plans include remote airline check-in, baggage drop and security screening at stations, moving part of the airport process onto the rail journey.
