The first phase of the preview service of the brand new Lusail Tram in the partially completed new urban area in the northern part of Greater Doha area in Qatar started passenger service today on the 1st January 2022. It is part of the „Orange Line“ between Energy City South and Legtaifiya where it connects to Doha’s metro network. The first phase includes the six stations Marina, Marina Promenade, Yacht Club, Esplanade, Energy City South and Legtaifiya and runs completely underground in a tunnel.
Once fully open, the Lusail Tram Network will be 28 km long, comprising of four lines and 25 stations – two of which will connect with the Metro network. Approximately 15 km of the double track, standard-gauge network will be in a tunnel, the rest at-grade. 7 of the 25 stops are also located underground.
Other parts of the new network will be phased in its opening to public, as the city of Lusail grows. Once the full Tram network opens, it will connect various government offices, residential towers, leisure and sports facilities, avenues, marinas and other major attractions across Lusail City.
© Doha Metro & Lusail Tram 
© Doha Metro & Lusail Tram 
© Doha Metro & Lusail Tram
The tram preview service will operate from 06:00 to 23:00hrs Saturday – Wednesday, and from 06:00 to 23:59 on Thursdays and 14:00 to 23:59 on Fridays – in line with Doha metro operating hours. Existing Doha Metro Travel Cards are accepted and allow for easy interchange.
The 6 underground tram stations in the preview service are air-conditioned. Each one contains a customer information centre, Travel Card vending machines, live digital service updates, separate male and female prayer facilities and restrooms that cater for people with mobility impairments. The stations also include clear directional signages to help customers navigate throughout their journey easily. All stations are equipped with CCTV and a first aid room to maintain the security and safety of all customers.
Inspired by the local Qatari heritage and its historical legacy, the interior design of the stations was developed on 3 levels; colours imitating the local traditional handcrafted textiles and the stained glass used in local windows. Patterns are derived from gypsum engravings used in local houses, mails and palaces. Textures of clay used in historical fortresses, towers, souqs are reflected on walls and floors and vintage geometrical ornaments are accentuated and used in multiple locations.
