The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed the second phase of the largest overhaul of ventilation and air conditioning (VAC) systems across Dubai Metro’s Red and Green Line stations.
A total of 876 units were upgraded without disrupting operations, enhancing passenger comfort and cooling efficiency as part of RTA’s 2024–2030 Strategic Plan.
Conducted by RTA’s Rail Agency in collaboration with Keolis-MHI, the project is a key part of the authority’s long-term commitment to operational excellence and customer happiness. The upgraded systems now maintain a stable temperature of 24–25°C across stations, providing a more comfortable environment during Dubai’s intense summer heat.
The second phase covered 14 Red Line stations and two car parks, following the successful completion of Phase 1, which involved 261 units across 13 stations. Key assets overhauled include air handling units (AHUs), fan coil units (FCUs), chilled water pumps, extract and smoke extract fans, and pressurisation units. Each was cleaned, refurbished, or replaced to restore performance to original design specifications.
Work was carefully scheduled during off-peak hours and night shifts to avoid service disruptions. The upgrade programme spanned 10 months and focused on proactive maintenance to extend equipment lifespan and minimise the risk of failures during high-demand periods.
Passenger comfort is a critical consideration for Dubai Metro, especially during summer when train doors open every 2–4 minutes and hot air continuously enters station areas. Ensuring VAC systems operate at full capacity is essential to delivering a consistently cool and safe environment for passengers.
The project also focused on enhancing long-term energy efficiency. RTA is exploring advanced solutions, including a shift to variable flow technology, which could improve performance and sustainability across the network.
Preparations have already begun for Phase 3 of the overhaul, targeting the remaining 25% of public-area FCUs, as well as critical AHUs located in back-of-house and technical areas. Experimental and verification works for the next phase began in mid-July 2025.
The successful execution of this large-scale project was made possible through strategic coordination between RTA’s Rail Agency and Keolis-MHI, the Dubai Metro and Tram operator. Their partnership continues to play a central role in maintaining high service standards and operational resilience.
This ventilation and cooling upgrade reflects RTA’s broader mission to enhance Dubai’s public transport infrastructure, offering seamless and sustainable mobility while maintaining high passenger satisfaction. The project also aligns with Dubai’s ambitions to be a global benchmark for integrated and future-ready urban transport systems.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
