Protecting Pipeline Integrity Along UAE Emirate Metro Expansion Corridors

Project Background

The continued expansion of metro networks across the UAE emirates, linking key growth areas, requires the integration of new transport infrastructure within corridors already occupied by existing oil and gas pipeline infrastructure.

With a new UAE emirate network expected to serve between 320,000 and 350,000 passengers daily once fully operational, maintaining the integrity of nearby pipelines is critical. The proximity of transport and energy infrastructure introduces a range of technical risks, including derailment impact scenarios, vibration-induced fatigue, and stray electrical currents, which could affect long-term pipeline safety and performance.

Services

Penspen has been commissioned to provide an independent technical review of proposed rail crossings over a pipeline network operated by a national oil and gas company (NOC). Leveraging its in-country Asset Integrity capability, Penspen is undertaking a structured assessment comprising:

• Review of contractor studies addressing derailment, vibration, and fatigue scenarios
• Evaluation of stray current impacts arising from the metro power system
• Assessment of existing pipeline cathodic protection performance
• Determination of the need for additional mitigation measures

Result

The review provides the Client with independent technical assurance regarding the interaction between the proposed metro infrastructure and existing pipeline assets. The identification of integrity risks at the design stage enables the definition and implementation of appropriate mitigation measures prior to construction, ensuring that metro expansion works can proceed without compromising the integrity or operational reliability of adjacent energy infrastructure.

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