The Roads and Transport Authority proposed line could offer passengers services such as remote airline check-in, baggage drop-off, and security screening at metro stations.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has invited consultants to bid for a contract to study and design a proposed 55-kilometre Airport Express Line linking Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), according to a report by MEED based on the tender issued by the RTA.
The proposed line would run from the Red Line Metro station at DXB in Al Garhoud to DWC in Jebel Ali and include five stations, the report said. Consultants have until June to submit their proposals.
According to the report, the proposed route would pass through Al Jaddaf, run along Al Khail Road to a new station at Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and continue to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
Two branch tracks are also planned, with one linking JVC to Emirates Golf Club and another extending toward Business Bay.
The report said the proposed line could offer passengers services such as remote airline check-in, baggage drop-off, and security screening at stations, pointing to a broader airport-to-rail travel concept beyond a traditional metro service.
The development comes as Dubai expands rail connectivity around Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to play a major role in the city’s future aviation strategy.
The proposed Airport Express Line is separate from the planned extension of the Route 2020 Metro line to DWC’s West Terminal. Unlike a conventional metro extension focused on serving a single airport, the Airport Express would create a direct rail link between two major aviation hubs.
This project also aligns with wider metro expansion plans in Dubai, including the Dubai Metro Blue Line and other long-term rail developments tied to the emirate’s transport strategy.
Once completed, the Airport Express Line could serve as a major connection between Dubai’s two airports while also supporting residential and business districts along the route.
Earlier reports indicated that operations at Dubai International Airport are expected to gradually shift to Al Maktoum International Airport over time, with the new airport planned to handle up to 260 million passengers annually.
The Airport Express Line also fits into the broader vision for DWC, which is being developed not only as an airport but as a major urban hub with homes, businesses, and supporting infrastructure in Dubai South.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, previously said passengers could eventually check in their bags at train stations before heading to the airport, supporting the concept of remote check-in facilities.
DWC is also being designed with its own underground train system, while earlier plans included a 14-station automated people mover to transport passengers between terminals and concourses.
Dubai has also approved the City Terminal Project under the Dubai 10X Initiative, aimed at allowing travellers to complete check-in procedures at locations across the city before travelling to the airport.
