In a landmark development, Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company have joined forces to commence the construction of the Omani-Emirati railway network project. The agreement marking this significant collaboration was signed during the state visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Sultan of Oman, to the UAE.
Present at the signing of the shareholder agreement was Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, and Chairman of Etihad Rail, underscoring the importance of this partnership.
Formerly known as Oman-Etihad Rail Company, the joint venture will now operate under the name Hafeet Rail, paying homage to Jebel Hafeet, a mountain range straddling the border between Oman and the UAE. Jebel Hafeet holds strategic and historical significance, symbolizing the connection between the two nations through its rugged terrain.
The Omani-Emirati railway network, with an estimated investment of US$3 billion, will enhance the UAE and Oman’s positions as gateways to regional markets, fostering economic growth and job creation across various sectors.
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The network will facilitate cross-border trade by connecting commercial ports to railways within the two countries, with a single freight train capable of transporting over 15,000 tonnes of cargo or approximately 270 standard containers.
Hafeet Rail is poised to boost sectors such as mining, iron and steel, agriculture, food, retail, e-commerce, and petrochemicals, contributing significantly to the economic development of both nations.
In addition to enhancing freight transportation, the railway network will also provide passenger rail services, promoting social cohesion and supporting the tourism sector. Passenger trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour, reducing travel times between key destinations. For instance, the journey between Sohar and Abu Dhabi will take just 100 minutes, while Sohar to Al Ain will be covered in 47 minutes, with each train accommodating up to 400 passengers.
The collaboration between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala represents a milestone in regional infrastructure development, fostering closer ties between the UAE and Oman while driving economic prosperity and connectivity across the region.
