Doha Metro

Doha Metro
Name	Doha Metro
Locale	Doha, Qatar
Transit type	Rapid transit
Began operation	8 May 2019
Lines	3 (Red, Green, Gold)
Stations	37 (operational)
Ridership	96.5 million (2023)
Operator	RKH Qitarat (Keolis / RATP Group JV)
System length	76 km (47.2 mi)
Track gauge	Standard gauge
El	Third rail, 750 V DC

Doha Metro. It is a state-of-the-art, fully automated rapid transit system serving the capital city of Qatar. Operated as a key component of the larger Qatar Rail network, the system was inaugurated in 2019 to support the nation's infrastructure development goals and major events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The metro is renowned for its modern design, driverless trains, and integration with other transit modes like the Lusail Tram and extensive bus services.

History

The project was formally launched by Qatar Rail under the directives of the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, as part of the broader Qatar National Vision 2030. Major construction, led by a consortium including Redco and Al Jaber Engineering, accelerated following Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The first phase, comprising the Red Line and sections of the Green Line, opened to the public on 8 May 2019. Subsequent phases were completed in stages, with full network operations achieved prior to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, during which it transported millions of fans to venues including Khalifa International Stadium and Education City Stadium.

Network

The operational network consists of three lines spanning approximately 76 kilometers, largely constructed using tunnel boring machines. The Red Line runs north-south, connecting Lusail to Al Wakra via the major interchange hub at Msheireb. The Green Line runs east-west, linking Al Riffa to Al Mansoura, while the Gold Line arcs through the city's historic center from Ras Bu Abboud to Al Aziziyah. All lines converge at the underground Msheireb station, which is among the largest of its kind in the region. The network is integrated with the Lusail Tram and feeder bus services operated by Mowasalat.

Stations

There are 37 operational stations, with architectural designs by firms like UNStudio and Buro Happold reflecting themes of modernity and Qatari heritage under the "Vaulted Spaces" concept. Key interchange stations include Msheireb, which connects all three lines, and Al Bidda, linking the Red and Green lines. Major stations serve significant landmarks: Souq Waqif provides access to the historic Souq Waqif market, National Museum serves the National Museum of Qatar, and Education City station connects to Qatar Foundation campuses and the Education City Stadium.

Rolling stock

The system uses fully automated, driverless trainsets supplied by a consortium of Mitsubishi Corporation, Kinki Sharyo, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Each three-car train can be coupled into six-car formations, with a capacity for up to 646 passengers. The trains feature modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, dedicated Gold Class and Family Class compartments, and are equipped with CBTC signaling technology for precise operation. The fleet is maintained at the central Al Wakra Depot, which also houses the network's operational control center managed by RKH Qitarat.

Operations

The metro operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM Saturday through Wednesday, with extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays. Headways can be as short as three minutes during peak periods. Fares are managed via a contactless smart card system integrated with the broader Karwa smart network. Safety and security are overseen by the Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Force. The system is operated and maintained by RKH Qitarat, a joint venture between French transport giants Keolis and the RATP Group.

Future expansion

Qatar Rail has outlined plans for a significant Blue Line as part of the network's long-term development, which would add new corridors to the system. Further extensions are also planned for the existing Red Line and Green Line to better serve growing areas like Al Rayyan and The Pearl. These expansions are aligned with ongoing urban development projects and aim to increase the metro's modal share in line with the sustainability goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.

Category:Rapid transit in Qatar Category:Railway lines opened in 2019 Category:Transport in Doha