Dubai Metro: Update in pictures

Work on the project began in August 2005 and both main lines are expected to be fully operational by March 2010.

Once active the system will integrate with the city's existing public transport arteries, as well as with new initiatives currently under development in Business Bay and Jebel Ali.

Reporters were taken to the site of the central depot, terminus and system headquarters in Dubai's Rashidiya district by the emirate's international airport.

The area will be made up of a complex of different buildings, including the station, the main control centre for the entire network, the depot and train workshop and a seven-storey car park.

The Red Line will run just under 52km from Rashidiya, through central Dubai, along the main Sheikh Zayed Road highway and the New Dubai business and residential developments to its terminus at Jebel Ali.

The parking facilities will be free of charge for Metro commuters, in a bid to fight congestion with a park-and-ride service. Car parking will only be provided at three locations however and commuters will have to use taxis or buses at the other stations.

The Red Line is 70% completed and looks likely to meet the target handover date of '9/9/9', 9 September next year.