Emirates Transport (ET) and the French public transport group Keolis have signed a memorandum of understanding in Dubai to jointly bid for upcoming operation and maintenance tenders within the UAE public transport sector.

Keolis is a world leader in passenger transport, operating all modes of transport across four continents.

The French-based multinational is supported by two long-term shareholders -- the French National Railways Corporation (SNCF), which holds a 70 per cent share, and the Canadian institutional fund manager (CDPQ) which has a 30 per cent share.

Emirates Transport was established pursuant to Federal Law No. 17 of 1981, with the purpose of regulating, managing, and supervising the operation of transport and maintenance services for various government, federal, and local entities as well as private sector organisations in the UAE.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Jarman, general manager of ET, said: “We are delighted and excited to have this opportunity to work with one of the largest public transport providers in the world”.

“The transport sector in the UAE has witnessed major growth and development over the last few years and, through this partnership, we aim to make our contribution in the sector by combining our considerable expertise and resources,” he added.

Karim Chaiblaine, CEO of Keolis in Middle East, said: “We feel very privileged to enter into a partnership with such a prominent company as Emirates Transport. We share a commitment to safety and customer focus, and are determined to provide world-class services to the residents of the UAE. This is the first step in a long-standing and successful relationship.

“Emirates Transport will bring to the partnership its breadth of expertise and its excellent credentials. In particular, Emirates Transport is very experienced in the operation and maintenance of heavy vehicles, and in sourcing and managing local suppliers and partners.

“Its deep knowledge of the local context will be essential in recruitment and training, particularly during critical phases such as mobilisation,” he added.

ET pursues a top-notch strategy in the transport and auto services sector throughout the UAE. This strategy is implemented through 27 business centres and units, and 8 subsidiaries and associate companies, all of which offer 38 various services through 40 locations across the UAE. ET employs 17,500 people and provides services to more than 430 main clients through a fleet of over 17,500 vehicles. - TradeArabia News Service