Work on Oman-UAE rail project gathers pace
Muscat: Work is ongoing at a steady pace on the UAE-Oman Rail Network project with heavy earth movers and other equipment being used to lay the railway tracks.
In a tweet, Hafeet Rail said: 'Everyday marks new progress on the path to connecting Oman and the UAE through the Hafeet Rail network. Stay tuned as we build the future of regional connectivity!'
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Times of Oman
2 days ago
- Times of Oman
UAE sets global benchmark in peaceful nuclear energy development
Abu Dhabi: The UAE continues to cement its status as a global role model in developing a peaceful nuclear energy programme that adheres to the highest standards of safety, transparency, and international cooperation. This comes at a time when the world is increasingly turning to reliable energy sources that can support the transition to climate neutrality. From the outset, the UAE adopted a collaborative and open approach, forging robust international partnerships, most notably with the Republic of Korea and the United States, to drive forward its nuclear ambitions. Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), highlighted the international stature of the UAE's peaceful nuclear energy programme. He highlighted the country's success in developing a global model for integrating nuclear power into a diverse and innovative energy portfolio. Al Hammadi noted that this achievement is rooted in the visionary leadership of the UAE, a clearly defined roadmap, and a firm commitment to the highest standards of safety and transparency, underpinned by strong international cooperation. In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Al Hammadi added that the UAE has been a pioneer in international cooperation and coordination within the nuclear energy sector. He pointed to the country's significant efforts in this vital field, which culminated during the COP28 with over 30 nations pledging to triple global nuclear energy capacity by 2050 as part of the drive toward climate neutrality. Additionally, nearly 120 companies and banks worldwide committed to supporting this ambitious goal. He also highlighted the innovative model of international cooperation between the UAE and the U.S, which addresses the demands of the modern era and its rapid technological advancements, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and data centres. Al Hammadi emphasised that securing clean and reliable energy sources, such as nuclear power, is essential to support initiatives like the ''Stargate UAE'' project. Launched by a consortium of tech companies, the initiative aims to position Abu Dhabi at the forefront of the global AI revolution. For their part, key UAE entities, led by the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) and the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), play a central role in advancing the UAE's nuclear programme. Through a robust network of strategic and technical international partnerships, these institutions have facilitated knowledge transfer, experience exchange, and the development of specialised human capital. Cooperation with the Republic of Korea has served as the cornerstone for the successful development of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. Over time, this partnership has expanded to include new investment opportunities in international ventures, including the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). On the regulatory front, the UAE's Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) maintains agreements with its Korean counterpart covering joint inspections and capacity building. These ties are further strengthened through regular meetings to monitor technological advancements and regulatory developments. With the United States, the UAE has signed a series of strategic agreements aimed at advancing nuclear innovation and sustainability. These include a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Department of Energy's Idaho National Laboratory (INL) to develop solutions for producing hydrogen, water, and steam at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. The UAE has also partnered with TerraPower to support the development of advanced reactors, and signed an MoU with General Atomics (GA), a leading US advanced technology solutions company, to collaborate on using advanced technologies and materials for nuclear energy supply. Most recently, a partnership was announced with GE Vernova to jointly evaluate the deployment of the BWRX-300 Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology internationally. As part of its efforts to expand its network of strategic partnerships, the UAE is actively exploring avenues of cooperation with China in the development and operation of nuclear power plants, both domestically and in third countries. Areas of collaboration include the operation and maintenance of nuclear facilities, the development of high-temperature gas-cooled reactors, nuclear fuel supply chains, and investment opportunities. In parallel, FANR has strengthened its ties with counterpart agencies through agreements that enhance cooperation in nuclear safety, security, non-proliferation, and capacity building, further reinforcing the UAE's commitment to global nuclear governance. In a move that underscores the expanding international footprint of the UAE's nuclear programme, ENEC has signed a cooperation agreement with Romania. As part of the agreement, the UAE will support the development of a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) project in Romania, backed by an investment of $275 million. The UAE continues to affirm its leadership as a regional model for countries pursuing nuclear energy as a strategic option. UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have concluded the first bilateral cooperation initiative in the nuclear regulatory industry. The cooperation follows the 2019 agreement on the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy between the two nations. This was followed by regulatory partnerships focused on exchanging expertise, enhancing legislative frameworks, and strengthening emergency preparedness. Further expanding its regional outreach, the UAE and Egypt have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at COP28. The MoU sets the framework to explore opportunities for cooperation in advancing the use of peaceful nuclear energy and knowledge exchange.
Observer
01-06-2025
- Observer
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Muscat : In a strategic move set to reshape Oman's upstream oilfield services landscape, ADNOC Drilling has acquired a 70% stake in SLB's land drilling rigs business in the Sultanate, marking the UAE-based firm's first operational entry into the Omani market. The deal involves the transfer of six fully operational land rigs in Oman, all under contract with national operators, including Petroleum Development Oman (PDO). The acquisition is part of a wider $112 million agreement between ADNOC Drilling and SLB (formerly Schlumberger), and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. 'This acquisition provides ADNOC Drilling with an immediate footprint in Oman's high-growth drilling market, supported by long-term contracts and a stable operating environment,' the company said in a statement. The rigs are currently deployed in core oilfields that form part of Oman's energy backbone. ADNOC Drilling aims to scale up operations, introduce digital drilling optimisation tools, and enhance rig performance through AI-enabled platforms. The deal aligns with Oman's Vision 2040 goals to attract regional investment, boost in-country value (ICV), and enhance efficiency in hydrocarbon production. It also comes as the Ministry of Energy and Minerals accelerates upstream development, particularly in mature oil blocks requiring enhanced recovery and cost-effective drilling. Industry analysts say ADNOC Drilling's entry is a significant vote of confidence in Oman's upstream sector. With a majority of the assets located in Oman, the acquisition reaffirms the Sultanate's importance as a strategic energy partner in the Gulf. 'Beyond rig deployment, ADNOC Drilling's model includes integrated drilling services, digital workflows, and regional supply chain development—bringing advanced capabilities to Oman's oilfields,' said an energy analyst based in Muscat. The investment is expected to support Omani SMEs and contractors through subcontracting and local procurement. It could also generate new employment opportunities for Omani nationals in rig operations, logistics, and technical services.
Muscat Daily
31-05-2025
- Muscat Daily
Hafeet Rail, Itaminas sign deal to develop logistics solutions
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Hafeet Rail, the developer of the cross-border railway project between Oman and the UAE, has signed a cooperation agreement with Itaminas Comércio de Minérios, one of Brazil's leading iron ore producers. This agreement marks a strategic step toward establishing an integrated and sustainable shipping system leveraging Hafeet Rail's network to connect major ports and industrial zones, enhancing logistical efficiency and supporting the iron and steel industry in both countries. The collaboration aims to develop a reliable and efficient transport network utilising Hafeet Rail's modern infrastructure while capitalising on the pivotal role of Sohar Port in importing and processing iron ore. Construction of the Hafeet Rail project is progressing rapidly along the railway route between Oman and the UAE, with ongoing groundwork, leveling, and site preparation. Major bridge and tunnel construction have also commenced, paving the way for seamless connectivity between the two nations. This progress reflects close coordination between relevant authorities and local governments, ensuring the achievement of the objectives set for this vital cross-border project. Itaminas specialises in producing high-quality iron ore, with a current annual production capacity of 6.5mn tonnes and environmental permits allowing expansion to 15.5mn tonnes annually. The company plans to export a significant portion of its production to the Middle East via Brazil's Sudeste Port, as part of its efforts to strengthen its presence in the region's iron and steel sector. Itaminas is also exploring the possibility of establishing parts of its value chain in GCC countries, leveraging the region's advanced infrastructure, energy resources, and strategic geographic location. This cooperation underscores the deepening integration between Oman and the UAE and highlights the potential of the Hafeet Rail network to support future industrial projects in both countries. By creating an integrated logistics corridor linking ports to industrial and commercial hubs, the network will serve global and regional steel companies seeking efficient, sustainable, and scalable logistics solutions in the region. ONA
