Dubai's metro system is expanding exactly two years after becoming the Arabian Peninsula's first mass transit rail service. Dubai's ruler, Sheik Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, inaugurated the new line Friday. It covers nearly 14 miles (23 kilometers) over 16 stations. It expands Dubai's metro to about 45 miles (75 kilometers) with driverless, remote-controlled trains on mostly elevated tracks. The metro began operation Sept. 9, 2009, after Dubai's once-sizzling growth came to a near standstill under crippling debts. The new line runs through some decades-old commercial districts and is seen as a possible boost to business. The system includes women-only cars and VIP sections for riders willing to pay a premium fare.
