Dubai Airport Express Line Could Lift Land Values by 30%

Dubai's proposed Airport Express Line could increase land values near future stations by 15% to 30%, according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The proposed rail connection would link Dubai International Airport (DXB) with Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer said the project is still in the study phase and the work will take at least a year to complete.

The authority is conducting the studies in coordination with Dubai Airports and is assessing the project's commercial and network implications.

55km Airport Rail Link Under Study

The proposed Airport Express Line would stretch approximately 55 kilometres between DXB and DWC.

The planned route includes five stations and would run through Al Jaddaf, along Al Khail Road and through Jumeirah Village Circle before reaching DWC.

Two proposed branches could extend the network towards Business Bay and the Al Fardan Exchange station near Dubai Marina.

The stations could also offer remote check-in, baggage drop and security screening, although these features remain subject to the ongoing study.

RTA received six bids in August from international engineering groups to study and design the proposed line.

The shortlisted groups include AECOM/Surbana Jurong, AtkinsRéalis, Jacobs, Parsons/Arup, Systra/Egis and WSP.

Also Read: Dubai Holding Awards Record $1.36bln Contract to CSCEC

Transport Connectivity Could Support Property Values

Al Tayer said station locations and the eventual direction of the line could significantly influence land use and commercial activity. He noted that land values can increase by 15% to 30% when a new station is built beside an area.

The estimate relates specifically to land values rather than guaranteed residential property price increases.

However, better access to public transport can increase the appeal of nearby neighbourhoods and potentially support demand for homes, offices and commercial developments.

RTA's earlier economic impact research found that transport and infrastructure projects have contributed to property price increases of between 6% and 16% across Dubai, with proximity to metro stations and major highways identified as important factors.

Also Read: Dubai Creek Gardens Breaks Ground With Dh3bn Low-Rise Vision

Airport Expansion Adds to Long-Term Demand

The proposed rail connection is being planned as Dubai prepares for the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport.

The first phase of the airport's expansion is targeted for 2032, with an eventual capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually.

The Airport Express Line is therefore expected to form part of Dubai's longer-term transport and aviation strategy. However, the project remains under study, and RTA has not yet announced a construction schedule or opening date.

For Dubai's property market, the proposed stations could become important future development points if the line receives final approval and moves into construction.

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