Ready or not, Dubai launches metro system

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Dubai opened the Arabian Peninsula’s first metro system Wednesday, hoping to capture the world’s spotlight on the catchy date of 9/9/09 – whether the sleek system is fully ready to go or not.

The rapid transit line has been slotted together at breakneck speed, much like the often traffic-clogged city it aims to serve. In true Dubai style, it even promises a VIP section for higher-paying customers who don’t want to mix with the rest of the public.

Officials are eager to portray the $7.6 billion project as a rare piece of good news amid the negative press that’s swamped the sheikdom, which has seen its once-buzzing economy hit hard by the global downturn.

In the inaugural run – which began at 9:09 p.m. Wednesday – Dubai’s ruler, Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, stepped onto the train as its first passenger followed by VIPs and officials. The train whizzed through six stations, stopping at each for celebrations, including recitations of poetry.

For many of Dubai’s foreign guest workers, the rail project could mean far quicker commutes in a sprawling city-state where shared taxis, packed vans and creaky wooden boats are among the most visible forms of public transportation.

But Wednesday’s opening has the feel of being rushed. Invitations to the unveiling ceremony were only sent out Monday. The inaugural run went through several unfinished stations that looked like dark construction sites.

Only ten of the inaugural red line’s 29 stations were ready for opening day.