The Doha Metro Red Line South and Metrolink (feeder bus) services will not be available from May 30 to June 3 due to network expansion testing, according to a Qatar Rail tweet on Tuesday.

During Eid al-Fitr, from June 4 to 9, Doha Metro will run between 6am and 11pm, with the exception of Friday, when the service is to start from 11am.

“Network expansion testing will allow us to extend our services, introduce new lines and open more stations on the Red Line, including Hamad International Airport, Katara, Qatar University, and Lusail in the near future,” the twitter post said.

The Red Line currently operates from 8am to 11pm and its first phase covers 13 of the 18 stations, including Al Qassar, DECC, QIC West Bay, Corniche, Al Bidda (Interchange station), Msheireb (Interchange station), Al Doha Al Jadeda, Umm Ghuwailina, Al Matar Al Qadeem, Oqba Ibn Nafie, Free Zone, Ras Bu Fontas and Al Wakra.

Several retail outlets are also expected to open at metro stations in the near future, including banks, convenience stores, and cafes and coffee shops, among others.

Metro services, Qatar Rail noted, are planned to minimise crowding at every station and on-board trains, aimed at maximising passenger comfort, safety and convenience.

“Trains and trams will be maintained in a safe condition and to a high standard of cleanliness,” it stressed, advising passengers to alert its members or staff if they “notice any issues with litter or cleanliness”. “When things go wrong we will fix them.”

Qatar Rail advised passengers to place litter in the bins provided at stations or take it home to recycle; avoid eating on-board to prevent spills and strong odours; refrain from eating chewing gum; and to be considerate to other passengers at all times, including when using mobile phones and other electronic devices.

Qatar Rail noted that its staff are trained in disability awareness to provide proper help for passengers, particularly people with disabilities (PWDs).

Stations feature dedicated drop-off areas for people with reduced mobility; tactile paths to assist people with visual impairments; and space for manual and electric wheelchairs on all trains and trams, along with dedicated seating areas for PWDs.

“Our staff will treat you with sensitivity, attention and respect,” Qatar Rail said.

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