Dubai signs landmark deal with Elon Musk-founded US tunnelling firm The Boring Company to roll out Dubai Loop, a next-generation underground transport network unveiled at WGS 2026….reports Asian Lite News
Dubai has taken a decisive step towards redefining urban mobility with the launch of the Dubai Loop, an ambitious underground passenger transport project developed in partnership with the US-based The Boring Company, founded by Elon Musk. The strategic agreement was signed on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2026, reinforcing the emirate’s push to deploy next-generation transport solutions at scale.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) formalised the partnership with The Boring Company, a global specialist in advanced tunnel systems and innovative passenger transport technologies. The agreement sets the stage for the phased implementation of the Dubai Loop, a high-capacity underground transport network designed to ease congestion, improve connectivity, and support first- and last-mile journeys across key commercial districts.
Pilot route to connect financial, retail hubs
Under the initial phase of the project, construction will begin on a 6.4-kilometre pilot route featuring four stations. The pilot will link the Dubai International Financial Centre with Dubai Mall, two of the city’s busiest destinations, creating a fast and efficient corridor beneath some of Dubai’s most congested roads.
This phase is intended to serve as a foundation for the full Dubai Loop network, which will ultimately extend up to 22.2 kilometres and include 19 stations. The expanded alignment is planned to connect Dubai World Trade Centre and the wider financial district with Business Bay, significantly enhancing east-west mobility through the city’s commercial core.
The Dubai Loop will involve the construction of tunnels with a diameter of 3.6 metres, dedicated exclusively to vehicle transport. Advanced tunnelling techniques will be deployed to ensure faster construction timelines, lower overall costs, and minimal disruption to existing roads, utilities, and surrounding infrastructure when compared with traditional transport projects.
The estimated cost of the first phase stands at around AED565 million, with delivery expected approximately one year after the completion of design works and preparatory requirements. The full project is projected to cost about AED2 billion, with an anticipated implementation period of roughly three years.
Capacity, efficiency and strategic partnerships
Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said the project represents a qualitative addition to Dubai’s transport ecosystem. He noted that the Dubai Loop will enhance integration between various mobility modes while providing flexible, efficient solutions for first- and last-mile connectivity.
According to studies cited by Al Tayer, the pilot route is expected to serve around 13,000 passengers per day, while the complete network could accommodate up to 30,000 passengers daily. He added that the project aligns with the leadership’s directives to strengthen strategic partnerships with leading global companies in innovation and advanced technologies, supporting Dubai’s ambition to remain at the forefront of future mobility.
Steve Davis, President of The Boring Company, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and advanced tunnelling solutions that support Dubai’s vision for sustainable transport and urban development.
The agreement builds on groundwork laid during the previous edition of the World Governments Summit, when the RTA and The Boring Company signed a preliminary agreement to study the project’s feasibility. During that phase, the RTA provided detailed geotechnical data, utility information, environmental risk assessments, and system standards, while the company submitted technical, safety, and development studies in collaboration with international consultancies.
VP reviews future mobility projects
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the Dubai Loop alongside the Glydways project during a visit to the RTA stand at the World Governments Summit 2026. He was accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.
Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Mattar Al Tayer on the technical components of both initiatives and their role in strengthening Dubai’s integrated transport ecosystem through innovation and future technologies. The Dubai Loop was presented as a rapidly deployable, cost-efficient solution with minimal impact on existing infrastructure, designed to support the emirate’s fast-paced urban and economic growth.
The Glydways project, Dubai’s first automated Autonomous Transit Network programme, introduces an on-demand, electric, point-to-point mobility system operating on dedicated guideways independent of road traffic. Designed for dense urban environments, the system offers round-the-clock service, reduced journey times, and significant savings in capital and operating costs.
Al Tayer affirmed that both projects reflect the leadership’s vision to position Dubai as a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, while enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
