In the heart of every thriving city lies a robust public transport network, silently driving economic growth, creating jobs, and shaping vibrant communities. Nowhere is this more evident than in the GCC, where forward-thinking governments, particularly in the UAE, have placed urban rail networks at the core of their development strategies. With Dubai’s world-class metro system and ambitious rail projects emerging across the region, it’s time to recognize public transport as more than just a way to move people: it’s an economic powerhouse.
How is Public Transport Driving Economic Development?
Public transport is often seen as an infrastructure cost, but in reality, it is an economic multiplier. Efficient metro and tram networks reduce congestion, increase productivity, and enhance connectivity between business hubs, residential areas, and tourism hotspots.
Take Dubai, for example. The Dubai Metro, a key pillar of the city’s mobility ecosystem, has transformed urban transit while contributing significantly to the economy. Studies suggest that every dirham invested in public transport yields multiple benefits, from increased real estate value along transport corridors to boosting retail and business activities in connected areas1
How does Public Transport Boost Tourism and Hospitality?
The UAE’s booming tourism industry thrives on seamless connectivity. Millions of visitors rely on Dubai’s Metro and Tram to explore the city’s iconic attractions, from the Burj Khalifa to Palm Jumeirah. Reliable, affordable, and safe transport enhances the visitor experience, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits.
Dubai welcomed a record-breaking 18.72 million international visitors in 2024, marking a 9% increase from the previous year 2. This growth reinforces Dubai’s status as a top global destination,
Globally, major cities that invest in rail infrastructure witness a direct impact on tourism revenue. Paris, home to Keolis; a global leader in mobility solutions, has demonstrated how an efficient metro system can seamlessly connect tourists to cultural and economic centers. Similarly, in Japan, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has played a pivotal role in advancing high-speed rail 3 , revolutionizing travel while boosting local economies. Dubai is already aligning itself with such global benchmarks, ensuring its public transport remains a pillar of its tourism strategy.
Does it Create Jobs and Up-Skilling Opportunities?
Beyond economic output, public transport is a major job creator. The operation, maintenance, and expansion of metro and tram networks generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. From engineers and customer service professionals to urban planners and tech specialists, the industry fuels diverse career paths.
Keolis MHI exemplifies this impact, by bringing together Keolis’ expertise in urban transit and MHI’s technological innovation, the partnership is not just delivering world-class operations but also investing in local talent. Through training programs, Emiratization initiatives, and knowledge transfer, Keolis MHI is playing an active role in upskilling the workforce and fostering long-term career development in the rail sector.
How Can Public Transport Drive Sustainable Growth in the Future?
As GCC cities continue to expand, investment in public transport will be crucial in shaping their economic futures. Sustainable mobility solutions and integrated transport networks will define the next era of urban development. They reduce traffic congestion, carbon emissions and aligns with the UAE’s long-term commitment to smart cities and green transport vision – ensuring that public transport drives the economy and does so in an environmentally responsible way.
Public transport should be seen not as an expense but as a strategic investment in a city’s future. A well-designed metro or tram system goes beyond convenience; it fuels economic growth, boosts tourism, and creates jobs.
As Dubai and the wider GCC region continue their rapid development into global economic hubs, rail networks will play a pivotal role in shaping this transformation. By combining global expertise with local vision, these cities are setting a benchmark for sustainable urban mobility. Their success offers valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers worldwide, proving that well-planned public transport systems are a foundation for thriving, future-ready cities.
Author Profile
David Franks, Managing Director of Keolis MHI (UAE)
David Franks is the current Managing Director of Keolis MHI in Dubai, leading the region’s premier rail management organization. With a wealth of experience in the transportation sector, David has been instrumental in shaping Keolis MHI’s operations in Dubai since taking over the role in 2024.
Prior to his current role, David served as the CEO of Keolis Downer in Australia for five years, from 2017 to early 2023. During his tenure there, he spearheaded significant growth initiatives, expanding the company’s portfolio to include bus operations in Sydney and rail operations in Adelaide. David was also pivotal in developing an ambitious strategy to position Keolis Downer as Australia’s leading provider of zero-emissions transport.
Franks’ expertise extends beyond operational management. He has been actively involved in strategic negotiations and business development, including leading talks with the South Australian Government regarding the future of the Metropolitan Rail Contract and pursuing development opportunities for Keolis Group in Stockholm and Dublin.
After his time in Australia, David transitioned to his current role in Dubai, where he has been actively involved in the continued success of Keolis MHI, a consortium formed between Keolis (France) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan).
Under David’s leadership, Keolis MHI has continued to strengthen its position in the GCC region, contributing to transformative rail projects and urban development initiatives. His insights and experience have been valuable in shaping the future of public transportation in Dubai and beyond, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and economic growth through robust rail networks.
