Dubai's ruler opens metro system

Dubai, UAE's metro system was opened yesterday by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and prime minister of the UAE. It is the world's longest automated rail transport system and construction has taken just under four years.

"The launch of the Dubai Metro is a true manifestation of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to improve Dubai's infrastructure," said Mattar Al Tayer, chairman and executive director of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

"All focus and effort recently has been put into getting the ten red line stations opened tonight ready," he said. "Some stations, such as that at Jebel Ali, are not yet open despite being ready, as the property projects that they will serve are not yet completed," he confirmed. "Once the projects are completed and there are passenger numbers we will bring stations on-line."

The ten stations opened on the red line are Rashidiya, Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport, City Centre, Al Rigga union, Khalid bin Al Waleed, Jafliah, Financial Centre, Mall of the Emirates, and Nakheel Harbour and Tower. According to the RTA, the remaining stations on the line will be opened in phases over the next few months.