Keolis MHI Appoints Vikas Sardana as Managing Director to Lead Dubai Metro and Tram Operations
DUBAI, UAE — Keolis MHI announced the appointment of Vikas Sardana as Managing Director to oversee operations of Dubai’s Metro and Tram networks. The appointment accelerates implementation of the company’s Strategy Plan 2026 and reinforces its partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Sardana brings over 20 years of rail expertise from high-density networks across India and the Middle East.
Appointment Specifics
Vikas Sardana, a Chartered Engineer with a degree in electrical engineering and a master’s in data science and engineering, assumes the role after serving as Acting Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer at Keolis MHI. His prior experience includes Director of Operations and Board Member at Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd, where he led readiness for 40 kilometers of new lines, and a 13-year tenure heading Operations & Maintenance at Mumbai Metro One, one of the world’s densest rail corridors.
Leadership Perspectives
“It is a profound honor to lead Keolis MHI at such a defining time for urban mobility in Dubai. Our focus remains resolute: providing a seamless, sustainable and truly world‑class travel experience. Guided by our passenger‑first approach, empowered by technology and driven by our highly capable team, we will continue to push the boundaries and set new benchmarks for the global rail industry.”
— Vikas Sardana, Managing Director at Keolis MHI
Why it matters: Sardana’s track record in digital optimization and predictive maintenance has driven energy reductions, aligning with sustainable urban transit goals.
“Vikas Sardana’s appointment reflects the depth of operational expertise within Keolis MHI. His deep-rooted understanding of Dubai’s unique transit landscape, combined with his expertise in data science and large-scale operations, makes him the natural choice to lead this next chapter.”
— Youenn Dupuis, CEO Middle East & Eastern Asia at Keolis Group
Why it matters: The internal promotion signals continuity as Keolis expands its Middle East footprint.
Industry Context
Keolis MHI, a consortium of Keolis, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering, and Mitsubishi Corporation, operates Dubai Metro’s Red and Green lines and the Dubai Tram under a long-term contract with RTA since September 8, 2021. The company employs over 1,700 staff focused on safety, innovation, and passenger experience.
Dubai’s driverless metro network exemplifies smart city technology, with daily ridership reaching 767,000 passengers in recent years. Sardana’s data-driven leadership positions Keolis MHI to integrate AI and sustainability measures amid rising urban mobility demand in the UAE, a regional hub for transport innovation.
Conclusion
Under Sardana’s leadership, Keolis MHI aims to elevate service benchmarks through technology-driven solutions as Strategy Plan 2026 progresses, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in sustainable urban transport systems.
Sources: Zawya, Gulf News, Keolis MHI, Keolis MHI Senior Management, Protocol Dubai
