Serco Middle East has announced the appointment of Wallace Weatherill as its new managing director for the operations of the Dubai Metro and the Dubai Tram, which the company operates and maintains on behalf of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Serco’s announcement said Weatherill has worked in the Middle East rail industry for over six years, starting with mobilising the North-South high-speed passenger railway in Saudi Arabia. Wallace re-joins Serco, having previously served as its director for rail in Saudi Arabia.

“With almost 20 years of dedicated experience in the operations of critical rail systems in both the UK and the Middle East, Wallace brings with him the knowledge and expertise required to successfully continue the award-winning Dubai Metro operations both Serco and the RTA are known for,” said the statement from Serco.

Weatherill has led passenger railway businesses in the UK such as Southeastern, London Commuter Railway and London Midland and also brings with him infrastructure management experience gained with the UK infrastructure operator Network Rail from 1999-2006.

“My vision is to build on the success that has already been achieved by the RTA and Serco on the operations of the iconic RTA rail transit systems in Dubai. We must also integrate the new Red Line Extension in a seamless way, unlocking new journey opportunities and building the resilience required to welcome the increase of passengers. Serco’s aim to empower nationals within our business will continue; our people are our assets and at Serco, we are all proud to be delivering essential services to the UAE,” Weatherill said.

Phil Malem, CEO, Serco Middle East, added: “I am delighted to see Wallace return to Serco Middle East at a globally challenging time. He has a strong level of expertise that will help navigate our business in the rail sector and continue to provide a high standard of service to our clients as well as the citizens and residents of the UAE. I am confident that Wallace will be an asset to our team and will continue Serco’s award-winning delivery of service across the RTA transport systems.”

The statement added that Weatherill’s appointment with Serco and the Dubai Metro and Tram will play a pivotal role in ensuring timely and efficient operation on behalf of both Serco and the RTA.