A new operator has been appointed to run Dublin’s Luas network under a contract worth approximately €1.3 billion, marking the next phase in the operation and expansion of the capital’s light rail system.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the National Transport Authority have formally awarded the next generation Luas operations and maintenance contract to KeolisAmey.
The agreement was signed on March 12, with the company set to begin operating and maintaining the network from September 1, 2026.
The contract will run for an initial seven year term, with an option to extend it by a further six years.
The new agreement also includes plans for service improvements, including an enhanced timetable with additional peak time services due to be introduced in 2027 as passenger demand continues to grow.
Over the coming months, the current operator Transdev will assist with the transition to the new contractor.
Transdev has been responsible for running the Luas since the system first launched in Dublin more than two decades ago.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland said it expects that the vast majority of current Luas staff will transfer to KeolisAmey under the Transfer of Undertakings Regulations that govern employee transfers during changes of operator.
KeolisAmey already operates similar light rail systems internationally.
The company has been responsible for running London’s Docklands Light Railway since 2014 and recently secured a further eight year contract to continue operating that service. It also operates Manchester’s Metrolink network.
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said the new contract would play an important role in strengthening Dublin’s public transport system.
“This contract represents an important step in delivering the Government’s ongoing programme to strengthen and expand sustainable public transport across Dublin.
“The Luas plays a vital role in the daily life of the city, supporting economic activity, connecting communities and providing a reliable alternative to car travel as we work towards our climate targets.
“This long-term operations and maintenance contract will ensure the Luas network continues to run safely, efficiently and to the highest standards, while delivering greater capacity and a better overall experience for passengers.
“Importantly, this contract also supports the next phase of Luas development, including the planned extension to Finglas, which will bring fast, high capacity public transport to even more communities. It provides the stable foundation needed for the continued growth of the Luas network and ensures it remains a cornerstone of Dublin’s transport system for many years to come.
“I wish the new operators the best of luck.”
Anne Shaw, CEO of the National Transport Authority, said the agreement would support the next stage of growth for the Luas network.
“This new contract is an important step in the continued development of the Luas as a high-capacity, sustainable and reliable public transport service for Dublin.
“With the planned future extension to Finglas and the rollout of new trams that will increase capacity, this next phase will help meet growing demand and make it easier for people to choose public transport.
“We look forward to working with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and KeolisAmey to ensure passengers continue to receive a safe, frequent and high-quality service as Luas continues to develop in the years ahead.”
Transport Infrastructure Ireland CEO Lorcan O’Connor noted that the system carried 55 million passenger journeys in 2025.
“Luas is the most successful transport infrastructure of our time, carrying 55 million passenger journeys in 2025 alone.
“I wish to thank all at Transdev Light Rail Dublin and their parent company Transdev Group for their dedication in operating Luas for over 20 years.
“They have helped shape the reliable, accessible service that is now synonymous with the city, allowing people to travel to where they live, work and socialise sustainably and with ease.
“I am very pleased to be able to award this new contract to an experienced team in Keolis Amey as we enter a new and exciting phase for Luas.
“We are procuring much needed new trams to increase capacity and are prioritising the delivery of Luas extensions.
“Luas Finglas is ready to progress to the next stage once funding is secured, with further plans in development for Lucan and Poolbeg.”