Dubai Contractors Prepare for $9.2bn Gold Line Metro Prequalification

Contractors are progressing through prequalification for Dubai’s planned Gold Line Metro, a AED34 billion ($9.2 billion) project that will add a major new underground corridor to the emirate’s expanding rail network.

Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority is developing the Gold Line as a fully underground railway extending more than 42 kilometres, with 18 stations connecting Al-Ghubaiba in Bur Dubai with Jumeirah Golf Estates.

The line is expected to increase the overall length of the Dubai Metro network by around 35% and pass through 15 areas serving an estimated 1.5 million residents. It will connect with the existing Red and Green lines and integrate with the future Etihad Rail passenger network.

The procurement is structured as a major integrated contract. The selected contractor will be responsible for the design and construction of civil works, electromechanical systems, rolling stock and railway systems, together with initial assistance for operations and maintenance.

US engineering group AECOM has previously been selected to provide consultancy services covering concept and preliminary design, tender documentation, construction supervision and the defects-liability stage.

Completion of the Gold Line is targeted for September 2032. Its route is also expected to provide transport connectivity to more than 55 real-estate developments currently under construction.
The scale and multidisciplinary nature of the project make it particularly relevant to international civil contractors, railway systems companies, rolling-stock manufacturers, engineering consultants and specialist suppliers seeking opportunities in Dubai’s next phase of transport investment.

Sources: MEED, Dubai Roads & Transport Authority.