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Dubai has taken another major step toward redefining urban mobility with the official announcement of the first phase of the Dubai Loop, a revolutionary underground transport system. Once operational, Dubai will become the second city in the world, after Las Vegas, to adopt this advanced tunnel-based transit technology.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Matar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), during his address at the World Government Summit.
Phase One Details: Route, Stations, and Investment
The first phase of the Dubai Loop will cover 6.4 kilometres and involve an investment of AED 600 million. This initial stretch will connect some of Dubai’s most high-traffic commercial and lifestyle destinations through four strategically located stations:
- Burj Khalifa
- DIFC 2
- Zabeel Dubai Mall Parking
- ICD Brookfield Place
The service will primarily operate between Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Dubai Mall, significantly improving connectivity between these key districts.
According to RTA officials, construction agreements have already been signed, and work on the project will begin shortly.
What Is the Dubai Loop?
Often referred to as “Teslas in tunnels,” the Dubai Loop is an underground transport network inspired by a system first introduced in Las Vegas by The Boring Company (TBC), founded by Elon Musk.
The Dubai Loop is described as an iconic infrastructure project that will consist of one-directional underground tunnels connecting major residential, commercial, and tourist hubs across the city. The system will feature both underground and above-ground stations, enabling smooth, end-to-end travel from first mile to last mile.
The goal is to provide fast, efficient, and congestion-free movement across central areas of Dubai.
Travel Time Reduced from 20 Minutes to Just 3 Minutes
Speaking about the project, Hamad Alshehhi, Director of Roads Department at RTA, confirmed that once the system is operational, up to 100 vehicles will operate inside the tunnels.
This is expected to reduce travel time between DIFC and Dubai Mall from approximately 20 minutes to just three minutes, offering a major improvement in daily commuting efficiency.
The initial phase alone is expected to handle up to 13,000 passengers per day, serving high-density business and lifestyle destinations.
Full Dubai Loop Network: Long-Term Vision
While the first phase focuses on a 6.4 km route, the full Dubai Loop network will span approximately 24 kilometres, with a total estimated investment of AED 2.5 billion.
Once completed, the entire system will include:
- 19 stations
- Coverage of key residential, commercial, and tourist zones
- Seamless integration with Dubai’s existing transport network
Al Tayer confirmed that execution of the first phase is expected to be completed within one to two years. He also noted that if progress remains on track, work on subsequent phases may begin earlier than originally planned.
Advanced Tunneling Technology and Cost Efficiency
One of the key advantages of the Dubai Loop lies in its cost-effective tunneling technology. According to RTA, excavation costs using this method average around AED 70 million per kilometre, compared to approximately AED 125 million per kilometre using conventional tunneling techniques.
This innovative approach allows for gradual descent during excavation, which:
- Reduces surface disruption
- Accelerates construction timelines
- Improves overall project efficiency
These benefits make the Dubai Loop both financially and operationally competitive when compared to traditional underground transport systems.
Partnership with The Boring Company
At the World Government Summit 2025, the RTA officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with The Boring Company to bring this technology to Dubai.
During the summit, Elon Musk described the system as similar to a “wormhole,” where passengers can enter from one part of the city and exit almost instantly in another.
Over the past few months, RTA teams have conducted extensive studies on route planning, construction timelines, and feasibility before finalizing the project locations.
Ticket Pricing and Public Access
While the pricing structure for the Dubai Loop has not yet been finalized, RTA officials confirmed that fares will be competitive when compared to other transport options serving the same areas.
The system is expected to complement existing public transport rather than replace it, offering a premium, high-speed alternative for short-distance urban travel.
A Major Step Toward Dubai’s Future Mobility
The launch of the Dubai Loop reflects Dubai’s ongoing commitment to smart infrastructure, sustainable transport, and future-ready urban planning. By adopting advanced tunneling technology and prioritizing efficiency, the city continues to position itself as a global leader in transportation innovation.
As construction begins, the Dubai Loop is set to become a defining feature of the city’s mobility landscape, transforming how people move between some of Dubai’s most important districts.