Dubai’s Executive Council, led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, has greenlit a comprehensive development plan aimed at significantly expanding the city’s Metro service and boosting foreign direct investment (FDI).
The ambitious projects, approved on Sunday, underscore Dubai’s commitment to enhancing public transport infrastructure, reducing carbon emissions, and positioning itself as a global economic powerhouse.
Metro Expansion: A Vision for 2040
The approved Metro expansion plan outlines an increase from the current 64 stations covering 84 square kilometers to 96 stations over 140 square kilometers by 2030.
By 2040, the network aims to encompass 140 stations across 228 square kilometers. This substantial growth is designed to increase the share of public transport usage to 45%, significantly reduce carbon emissions to 16 tonnes per capita, and improve public spaces to encourage walking and shaded areas.
The development around Metro stations will focus on enriching economic opportunities, interconnecting various modes of public transport, and enhancing the overall efficiency and convenience of sustainable transit.
Additionally, the plan includes incentives for developers, services to support the ’20-minute city’ concept, and efforts to boost the number of commuters.
Foreign Direct Investment Programme: Dh650 Billion by 2033
Complementing the Metro expansion, the Executive Council also approved a robust Foreign Direct Investment Development Programme.
This initiative aims to attract Dh650 billion in investments by 2033, targeting international companies and supporting the expansion of existing businesses with bases in Dubai.
A budget of Dh25 billion over ten years will be allocated to this program, with the goal of positioning Dubai among the world’s top three economies by 2033.
The FDI program will leverage Dubai’s competitive advantages, including its state-of-the-art logistics infrastructure, strategic geographical location, skilled talent pool, and status as a global commercial hub.
This initiative is set to reinforce Dubai’s attractiveness as a prime destination for international investment and business operations.
Dubai Economic Model and Social Initiatives
To monitor and ensure the city’s economic progress, the Executive Council also approved the Dubai Economic Model.
This model will measure Dubai’s development against economic targets using a comprehensive database of over 3,000 indicators, enhancing consumer and investor confidence.
Sheikh Maktoum emphasized the importance of empowering individuals, stating, “The success of any economic model always starts with empowering the individuals as they are the ultimate beneficiaries.”
In alignment with economic goals, Dubai’s Social Agenda 33 aims to foster happy, strong, and tolerant families who are proud of their values and identity.
The council approved several programmes targeting Emiratis, including the ‘Manbar’ programme, which seeks to double the number of UAE nationals working in mosques by equipping them with necessary skills and qualifications.
This initiative will involve extensive training and opportunities for sponsorship and permanent appointments.
Another notable program, ‘Ghras Al Khair,’ aims to empower Emirati content creators and promote values of tolerance, harmony, cohesion, and moderation. Schools and universities will support this initiative through dedicated programs and awareness campaigns.
A Unified Vision for the Future
These initiatives, rooted in the vision of Dubai’s leadership, reflect a unified approach towards sustainable development, economic growth, and social cohesion.
As Dubai continues to innovate and expand, these approved plans are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the emirate’s future, making it a model of modern urban living and a beacon for global economic activity.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members