Keolis MHI has appointed Vikas Sardana as its new Managing Director. The move comes at a critical time as the company accelerates its “Strategy Plan 2026.” It also strengthens its long-term partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
- Proven leadership in high-density metro operations
- Focus on passenger-first innovation and sustainability
- Strong endorsement from Keolis Group leadership
- Track record across Mumbai Metro and regional transit systems
- Technical expertise meets strategic vision
- About Keolis MHI and its global mobility footprint
The leadership transition highlights Keolis MHI’s focus on operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth. Moreover, it reinforces the company’s role in supporting the UAE’s evolving urban mobility ecosystem.
Proven leadership in high-density metro operations
Vikas Sardana brings more than two decades of experience in complex metro rail systems across the Middle East and India. Previously, he served as Acting Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer at Keolis MHI. During this period, he played a key role in ensuring safe, reliable, and high-performance operations across Dubai’s metro and tram networks.
In addition, Sardana has built a strong reputation for managing high-density transit systems. He has consistently improved operational efficiency while maintaining service reliability. Notably, he led initiatives that reduced traction energy consumption using digital optimisation and predictive maintenance tools.
Focus on passenger-first innovation and sustainability
Speaking on his appointment, Sardana emphasised a clear vision for the company’s future.
“Our focus remains on delivering a seamless and sustainable travel experience,” he said. “We will continue to adopt a passenger-first approach, leverage technology, and empower our workforce to set new global benchmarks.” This approach aligns closely with Dubai’s ambition to build one of the world’s most efficient and sustainable urban transport networks.
Strong endorsement from Keolis Group leadership
Youenn Dupuis, CEO Middle East & Eastern Asia at Keolis Group, said Sardana’s appointment reflects strong internal capability.
He noted that Sardana’s deep understanding of Dubai’s transit ecosystem, combined with his expertise in data science and large-scale operations, makes him the right choice for this phase of growth. Furthermore, he added that Sardana will play a key role as Keolis expands its footprint across the Middle East.
Track record across Mumbai Metro and regional transit systems
Before joining Keolis MHI, Sardana served as Director of Operations and Board Member at Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd. There, he established the operations directorate and led readiness for 40 km of new metro lines. Earlier, during his 13-year tenure with Mumbai Metro One, he headed Operations & Maintenance. He delivered strong punctuality performance on one of the world’s busiest metro corridors.
Technical expertise meets strategic vision
Sardana is a Chartered Engineer with a degree in electrical engineering and a master’s in data science and engineering. Therefore, he combines deep technical expertise with strategic insight. Under his leadership, Keolis MHI aims to strengthen its multi-skilled workforce. At the same time, it plans to expand the use of advanced technologies to enhance operational performance and passenger experience.
About Keolis MHI and its global mobility footprint
Keolis MHI Rail Management and Operation LLC is a consortium of Keolis, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering, and Mitsubishi Corporation. The company operates and maintains the Dubai Metro and operates the Dubai Tram under a long-term contract with the RTA. Since starting operations in September 2021, the company has built a workforce of over 1,700 employees trained to global standards. It continues to focus on safety, service excellence, and innovation.
Globally, Keolis Group operates across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Australia. With over 68,000 employees, it remains a key player in shared and sustainable mobility solutions.
