Dubai Airport suggests alternative to Purple Line of Dubai Metro

Construction Week reported that Dubai Airports has proposed the development of a central rail terminal with connections to its 2 international airports through the main tourist and business areas.

The airports operator has been pushing for the development as an alternative to the Purple line of the Dubai Metro, which would directly connect the 2 airports but which Dubai Airports claims does not serve the city’s needs.

Dubai Airports spokesperson said that “Many cities around the world have successfully set up a central rail terminal that connects the city to their multiple airports, allowing passengers to check-in and ride to their respective air terminals. We believe such a model will be ideal for Dubai with multiple terminals at its 2 airports. The plan would have to take into consideration allocation of appropriate space for passenger baggage on the trains.”

Last week, it was reported that the proposal is being considered as part of a comprehensive study into Dubai’s rail requirements which is being conducted by the US group Parsons Brinckerhoff.

Mr Nasser Abu Shehab Dubai Roads & Transport Authority’s director of strategic planning said that “We are looking at the proposal and will decide when the study is complete.”

The proposed 52 kilometers Purple Line would link Dubai International airport and the new Al Maktoum International Airport, which is currently being built at Jebel Ali.