Latest news with #HamdanbinZayedAlNahyan
Al Etihad
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
Hamdan bin Zayed awards winners of 8th Historic Dalma Race Festival 60ft dhow race
26 May 2025 22:11 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, has awarded winners of the 8th Historic Dalma Race Festival 60ft dhow race. His Highness praised organisers, sponsors, and participants of the Gulf region's longest race, highlighting their efforts in promoting maritime heritage and UAE National identity. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Etihad Rail passenger train service in 2026: Free WiFi, stations, travel time; all you need to know
The UAE's national railway project, Etihad Rail, is set to launch its passenger train service in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country's transportation infrastructure. This development was revealed during a meeting hosted by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, and a delegation from Etihad Rail at Al Dhanna Palace. The Etihad Rail undertaking is one of the country's largest transportation projects. And it is on the verge of transforming travel across the UAE through an extensive railway network. Although 2026 is the launch year, the exact start date is yet to be revealed. It is anticipated that, once operational, the service will accommodate around 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030. What cities will be connected by Etihad Rail? The railway network will span approximately 900km, connecting 11 cities and regions across all seven emirates. Designed to enhance connectivity, reduce travel times, and promote sustainable transportation, the project is a significant step forward in the nation's infrastructure development. Key cities connected by Etihad Rail include: Abu Dhabi Dubai Sharjah Ras Al Khaimah Fujairah Al Ain Ruwais Al Mirfa Al Dhaid Ghuweifat (bordering Saudi Arabia) Sohar (Oman, via the Hafeet Rail project) Where will the Etihad Rail passenger stations be located? The high-tech passenger rail service network extends from Al Sila to Fujairah. Authorities have already announced two locations of the passenger stations. The first one will be at Sakamkam in Fujairah, and the second one will be in Sharjah, University City. Other potential station sites include areas near the Jumeirah Golf Estates metro station in Dubai, and in Abu Dhabi, the station will likely be along the pipeline corridor between Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City, between Dalma Mall and Mussafah bus station, adjacent to Phoenix Hospital. New high-speed train linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai However, a new high-speed electrified line connecting Abu Dhabi to Dubai will feature six stations at Reem Island, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Zayed Airport, close to Al Maktoum Airport in Dubai and Jaddaf, near Dubai Creek. The project will enable seamless connectivity between the two emirates, significantly reducing travel times. The high-speed train will transport commuters between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 350km/h. The route will pass through key strategic destinations and tourist attractions, ensuring seamless travel for passengers and visitors. Etihad Rail will oversee the development and operation of this project. Fast and far-reaching One of the standout features of Etihad Rail's passenger service is its speed. The trains will operate at speeds up to 200km/h, reducing travel times for residents. For instance, journeys from Abu Dhabi to Dubai will take just 57 minutes. Travel time for passenger trains: Travel luxury UAE's passenger trains will have swanky coaches with stylish interiors and comfortable grey seats. The rail passenger service flaunts an aerodynamic design, a key feature of high-speed trains. Each train will accommodate over 400 passengers across first, business, and economy classes. Amenities include free Wifi, infotainment systems, charging stations, ample legroom, and advanced air-conditioning. The coaches, in silver and grey, have different types of seating. Similar to the flight class, the seats are arranged in a 2+2 format across the coaches. Compartments are separated with electric doors, and TV screens display information, such as location and arrival times, in each section of the train. Scenic routes of UAE passenger train The train will consist of 15 luxury carriages passing through the cosmopolitan cities, nature destinations of Fujairah, with its mountains bordering Oman, and the Liwa desert, with its world-famous oasis, near Mezeiraa train station. The journey will offer a one-of-a-kind travel experience. Door-to-door passenger train service Etihad Rail plans to offer a door-to-door service for passengers, ensuring hassle-free connectivity from the train stations to their final destinations. The railways will be integrated with all modes of transport and shared mobility solutions. There will be public transportation available to a passenger's final destination be it their home, place of work or a tourist spot. Global partnership Etihad Rail has partnered with several international companies to enhance its passenger services. Notably, agreements have been signed with firms such as SNCF International, Alstom, Progress Rail, and Thales Group to develop advanced ticketing solutions, real-time passenger flow management, and intelligent traffic operations. Etihad Rail is more than a new way to get from one location to another. It is an investment in the UAE's vision for smart, sustainable urban living. By linking cities, easing commutes, and respecting the environment, it's setting the tone for what modern transport in the region can look like. Abu Dhabi
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Science
- Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi ‘coral garden': 40,000 artificial reefs to restore marine ecosystem
To protect and restore marine biodiversity, Abu Dhabi has launched the largest coral garden initiative in the Middle East. The 'Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens' project, set to run from 2025 to 2030, aims to create vibrant coral gardens by installing 40,000 eco-friendly artificial corals across 1,200sqkm of the emirate's coastal and deep waters. These gardens will be strategically placed in areas that currently lack coral reefs or seagrass habitats, providing essential support for marine life. The initiative, launched by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), focuses on using innovative solutions to restore marine ecosystems. The artificial corals will serve as vital structures for cultivating coral reefs in the agency's nurseries, helping to support the reproduction of local fish species. Their ability to withstand high temperatures ensures they can endure the changing conditions of the ocean, making them crucial in rebuilding damaged coral reefs. This initiative underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to using innovative, natural solutions to promote biodiversity and support sustainable economic development, said Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the EAD's Board of Directors. He also highlighted the project's importance in safeguarding marine habitats, enhancing fisheries resources, and achieving a balance between development and conservation. Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the EAD, also shared her perspective on the initiative. She pointed out that it is part of the emirate's broader strategy to implement sustainable, nature-based solutions. Beyond improving marine habitats, she noted that the project will bolster food security, promote ecotourism, and boost the appeal of diving areas. The EAD revealed that artificial reefs have proven effective in attracting marine life, with rates up to three times higher than natural coral reefs. This success has led to the production of over 5 million kilograms of fish annually and strengthened the coastal region's resilience to the effects of climate change. Abu Dhabi continues to lead the region in research and implementation of artificial shorelines, with 30 marine sites involved in experimental studies using seven eco-friendly designs. These efforts solidify the emirate's position as a global model for marine conservation.
Hi Dubai
19-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Etihad Rail Passenger Service Launching in 2026: Travel Time, Stations, Free Wi-Fi & More
The UAE's ambitious national railway project, Etihad Rail, is set to transform travel across the country with the launch of its high-speed passenger service in 2026. The futuristic rail network, reaching speeds of up to 200km/h, will cut journey times, connect 11 major cities and regions, and offer a sustainable alternative to road travel. Announced during a meeting hosted by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, and Etihad Rail officials at Al Dhanna Palace, the passenger rail service marks a new era in the nation's infrastructure development. Though the exact launch date is yet to be confirmed, the system is expected to handle up to 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030. 11 Key Cities to Be Connected The Etihad Rail network will span approximately 900km, linking major cities and regions across all seven emirates and beyond. The cities connected include: Abu Dhabi Dubai Sharjah Ras Al Khaimah Fujairah Al Ain Ruwais Al Mirfa Al Dhaid Ghuweifat (on the Saudi border) Sohar (Oman, via the Hafeet Rail project) This network aims to boost regional mobility, reduce road congestion, and support economic growth. Passenger Stations Across the Emirates Etihad Rail's passenger stations will be strategically placed to maximize convenience and accessibility. Two confirmed stations include: Sakamkam in Fujairah University City in Sharjah Other proposed station locations are: Near Jumeirah Golf Estates metro station in Dubai In Abu Dhabi, along the corridor between Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City, close to Dalma Mall and Phoenix Hospital New High-Speed Line Between Abu Dhabi and Dubai A separate high-speed electrified line, also under Etihad Rail, will connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes, with trains reaching speeds of 350km/h. This line will include six stops: Reem Island Yas Island Saadiyat Island Zayed International Airport Near Al Maktoum Airport (Dubai) Jaddaf, near Dubai Creek This route will link major business hubs and tourist destinations, enhancing intercity travel. Travel Times Across the Network Once operational, the trains will drastically cut travel times: Abu Dhabi to Dubai: approximately 57 minutes Abu Dhabi to Ruwais: about 70 minutes Abu Dhabi to Fujairah: around 105 minutes Modern Comfort on Board Etihad Rail's passenger trains will feature 15 sleek, silver-grey carriages with a 2+2 seating layout across first, business, and economy classes. Each train will carry over 400 passengers and offer amenities such as: Free WiFi Infotainment systems Charging stations Ample legroom Advanced air-conditioning Real-time location and arrival screens Designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, the trains reflect the UAE's focus on luxury and efficiency. Scenic and Seamless Travel Experience Passengers will enjoy scenic routes through mountain ranges in Fujairah, the Liwa desert's oasis near Mezeiraa station, and bustling cityscapes. Etihad Rail is also planning a door-to-door service model, integrating with public and shared transport for smooth first-and-last-mile connectivity. Backed by Global Expertise Etihad Rail has partnered with international leaders including SNCF International, Alstom, Progress Rail, and Thales Group. These collaborations will help deliver intelligent ticketing, real-time passenger flow management, and smart traffic operations. Shaping the Future of Mobility More than just a transportation upgrade, Etihad Rail aligns with the UAE's vision for smart, sustainable urban development. By improving connectivity, reducing travel times, and supporting eco-friendly transport, the project signals a bold shift in how the country moves and grows. News Source: Khaleej Times
Hi Dubai
19-05-2025
- Science
- Hi Dubai
UAE Launches World's Largest Coral Reef Restoration Drive to Protect Marine Biodiversity
The United Arab Emirates is ramping up efforts to restore and expand its coral reefs in what is being called the world's most ambitious marine conservation project. Aimed at safeguarding biodiversity and ensuring long-term sustainability, the initiative will see millions of coral colonies cultivated and thousands of artificial reef structures deployed across the nation's waters. In Abu Dhabi, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan has directed the cultivation of over 4 million coral colonies by 2030, covering more than 900 hectares. The project, spearheaded by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), is set to become the largest coral restoration programme globally. EAD has also launched the Abu Dhabi Coral Garden initiative—the largest in the Middle East—which will deploy 40,000 eco-friendly reef structures across 1,200 square kilometres. These structures are designed to attract marine life at three times the rate of natural reefs and are expected to generate over five million kilogrammes of fish annually. Other emirates are rolling out similar programmes. Sharjah has introduced artificial reef caves in Khorfakkan, while Dubai's DUBAI REEF project aims to install 20,000 reef modules across 600 square kilometres over the next three years. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is coordinating nationwide coral restoration, including research on 24 resilient coral species and a national reef mapping initiative that has identified 210 reef sites. Ongoing efforts in Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Qaiwain, and Ajman have established coral gardens, while a long-term partnership with Fujairah Adventures is working to plant 1.5 million coral colonies along the eastern coastline. News Source: Emirates News Agency
