Dubai Metro is a notable success

As the Dubai Metro marks its first year since going into operation, it has proved to be an essential part of the city's infrastructure. Establishing a mass-transport system will prove its benefits in the long term.

To date, thirty million passengers have used the Metro, and the number is increasing steadily. This is undoubtedly a positive result, given that the construction of the Metro is part of a master plan to provide an integrated infrastructure of road networks and transportation systems. Perhaps what is most important to recognise is the fact that the Metro has attracted a larger number of regular users — more than what had originally been estimated. A significant number of commuters depends on the Metro for transportation on a daily basis.

But there is much more that is expected to be achieved. For one thing, commuters are looking for additional stations and an increase in the frequency of shuttle buses. In addition, alternative transport solutions should be made available to help commuters reach their final destinations. Most important of all though, is encouraging more people to use the Metro.