Keolis has opened a regional headquarters in Dubai as the transport operator looks to expand its involvement in metro, tram, railway and bus projects across the Middle East.
Dubai becomes regional base for transport operations
The new headquarters will coordinate Keolis’ regional operations, strengthen its work with public transport authorities and support its efforts to secure new contracts across the Middle East.
The move comes as the company expands its involvement in the UAE’s public transport sector, including metro, tram and railway operations.
Keolis has operated Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram through its Keolis-MHI partnership since 2021, on behalf of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
In 2026, the company also launched passenger railway services in the UAE through a joint venture with Etihad Rail, according to the announcement.
Keolis targets new rail and bus projects
The company plans to pursue opportunities across several transport sectors, including metro systems, light rail, intercity railways and high-speed rail.
Its growth strategy also includes bus networks, particularly Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, alternative-energy buses and the transition of existing fleets to cleaner energy sources.
Keolis is also looking at first- and last-mile transport options, including micromobility, on-demand services and autonomous transport. The company identified artificial intelligence for mobility as another area of focus.
The plans reflect a broader effort to expand its role beyond existing transport operations and compete for upcoming mobility projects in the region. However, the announcement did not identify specific new contracts or provide a timeline for securing them.
Existing operations across the Middle East
Keolis has also been involved in major transport networks in Qatar. Through a joint venture, it has managed Doha Metro and Lusail Tram since 2018, including services during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The new Dubai headquarters is intended to bring the group’s regional activities closer together and strengthen its engagement with transport authorities and prospective clients.
“The Middle East is a key growth market for Keolis. We have proven we can operate world-class trains, metro and tram systems reliably – from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha. This regional headquarters shows our long-term commitment with our clients, and our readiness to lead the major transport projects that will shape the region’s future,” said Frédéric Van Heems, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Keolis Group.
“This headquarters is essential for our growth in the Middle East. It will allow us to work more closely with our clients and support the region’s major mobility projects,” said Alistair Gordon, CEO, Keolis Middle East, Asia and Pacific Zone.
