6th May 2026
3 min

The Almere municipality has awarded Keolis a new contract to operate its public transport network for an additional 9.5 years. Starting in December 2027, Keolis will continue to run and enhance the mobility services provided to the 18 million passengers who use the city's network each year.

This contract renewal covers the operation of the allGo network serving Almere as well as regional lines connecting with Amsterdam and Blaricum (R-net). Keolis has been operating this network to Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) standards since December 2017 — a first in the Netherlands — providing passengers with a metro-equivalent level of service: dedicated lanes, all-door boarding, raised bus stop platforms and traffic light priority. More than 370 drivers across two depots deliver the service with a fleet of over 85 electric buses.

Picture of Jan Kilstrom, CEO, Continental Europe

"We are very proud of the confidence that Almere municipality has chosen to place in us again for the next 9.5 years. This show of trust bears testament to the remarkable work carried out every day by our teams, who deliver a reliable, safe and high-quality service for the benefit of residents. With this new contract, we are taking another step forward: an entirely sustainable fleet, an expanded service offering and innovative services to make mobility even more accessible and attractive in Almere."

Jan Kilström, Chief Executive Officer Continental Europe at Keolis Group

An enhanced service offering for passengers

Keolis will roll out several significant improvements for users:

  • Check-in/check-out validation will be available at all bus stops.

  • Bicycles can be transported on buses across all urban lines from 7 p.m. onwards.

  • The NaviLens service will provide enhanced accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility.

  • A new service centre will be established at the bus station.

  • A traffic control centre will ensure faster real-time passenger information updates.

Furthermore, the network will see its territorial coverage extended. New Express lines will offer direct connections from Almere town centre to Nobelhorst, whilst connections to Amsterdam will be strengthened: a new direct line to Holendrecht via Amsterdam Bijlmer, increased Saturday frequency and full night service on Friday and Saturday evenings.

A 100% sustainable fleet from contract launch

From day one of the new contract, Keolis will operate an entirely renewed fleet comprising over 85 zero-emission buses. To ensure electricity is sourced from renewable energy during charging, alternative solutions to the standard electricity grid will also be deployed. This transition to low-carbon mobility reflects the shared commitment of Keolis and Almere municipality to contribute to a more sustainable living environment for residents.

A historic and structuring presence in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of Keolis Group's historic markets in continental Europe. The Group operates several major rail and regional transport concessions there, including the Valleilijn line in Gelderland Province. Building on this nationwide foothold, Keolis combines local operational expertise with international know-how to support Dutch transport authorities in developing effective, safe and tailored mobility solutions suited to each community’s needs. The renewal of the Almere contract confirms the strength of this presence and the continued confidence our public sector partners place in us.

Key Figures

  • 18million passengers per annum
  • 9.5years' duration of the new contract
  • Over 85buses with 100% electric technology from launch
  • 370 drivers mobilised across two depots
  • 100 full-size buses
  • 2smaller buses in service

Note: A six-week objection period commenced on 22 April 2026. If no appeals are lodged during this time, the contract award will become final at the end of this period.

Read the press release