Hafeet Rail marks the newly unveiled brand identity of the joint venture between Oman Rail, Etihad Rail, and Mubadala
Coinciding with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s state visit to the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company signed a partnership agreement as shareholders, marking the commencement of construction works of the joint railway project with immediate effect.
An agreement was also signed to award the civil works and construction tender for the joint network to an Omani-Emirati alliance led by Trojan Construction Group (NPC) and Galfar Engineering and Contracting. This alliance aligns with joint efforts to build national capabilities and drive in-country value, which includes the private sector’s involvement in implementing the joint project. The alliance includes Tristar Engineering & Construction (TE&C) and National Infrastructure Construction Company (NICC).
In addition, another tender for the systems and integration of the railway network was awarded to a joint venture between Siemens and HAC, ensuring Hafeet Rail’s fleet is equipped with the latest rail technologies and advancements. The trains will be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, the world’s most advanced system, to ensure the highest levels of efficiency and safety by international standards and best practices. As a result, the network’s advanced infrastructure will include complete digital train control and tracking through GPS technology, enhancing the network’s reliability.
Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company have rebranded their partnership as Hafeet Rail, a nod to Jebel Hafeet—an iconic mountain straddling the UAE and Oman. Jebel Hafeet is notable for its strategic location and unique limestone landscape, rising 1,249 meters and featuring stunning natural scenery. This landmark symbolizes the connection between the two nations, historically linking them through its challenging terrain.
His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, stated that the new agreements align with the leadership directives of both countries, aimed at strengthening their historical, economic, commercial, social, and cultural ties. He highlighted that the project marks a significant step in ongoing cooperation and will initiate a new phase of planning for a brighter future for the two nations and their citizens.
The railway project aligns with the strategic and economic goals of both countries, enhancing their roles as logistical hubs for regional and global markets. It promises to transform the logistics sector in Oman and the UAE, boosting economic competitiveness by offering a sustainable transportation solution that reduces costs and time while improving connectivity to ports. Economically, the network represents a $3 billion investment, reinforcing their status as vital regional gateways.
The Hafeet Rail network will boost job creation in railway operations and other sectors in both countries, aiding national talent development. It will enhance supply chain efficiencies, enable cross-border trade, and connect ports to railways. Capable of transporting over 15,000 tonnes or about 270 containers in a single trip, the network will bolster various sectors like mining, agriculture, retail, and petrochemicals by providing quick, safe, and sustainable rail transport for diverse cargo types.
The passenger rail services will enhance social and family connections and boost tourism by providing smooth and fast travel between key cities. Trains traveling up to 200 km/h will cover Sohar to Abu Dhabi in 100 minutes and Sohar to Al Ain in 47 minutes.