Latest news with #OmanRail
Time Out Abu Dhabi
5 days ago
- Business
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
This is the new train that will take you from Abu Dhabi to Oman in under 2 hours
Work has begun on the much-anticipated multi-billion-dollar UAE-Oman railway project. Plans for a railway between the neighbouring GCC nations have been in the offing since 2022 and work is finally underway. The railway project will initially operate between the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi and the Omani port city of Sohar. The project will cover a distance of 303km and travel at speeds of up to 200km/h. And it will be equipped to handle the diverse terrains between the two countries, as well as any unpredictable weather conditions and water flow from surrounding valleys. Innovative and sustainable engineering solutions will ensure safe journeys. Work on the huge project got underway in May 2024, following a shareholder agreement between Hafeet Rail, a company made up of Etihad Rail and Oman Rail, and construction companies. Works are progressing along the railway alignment between the two nations. The update pointed out that progress is underway in several areas in North Al Batinah and Al Buraimi governates in Oman and in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. To date, more than one million man-hours have been clocked in developing the railway. The name of Hafeet Rail for the project was decided following the joint UAE-Oman Business Forum held in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday April 23. You might also like: Etihad Rail passenger train: Everything we know so far Partnership agreements have been signed between stakeholders, major construction contracts have been awarded and companies between both borders will operate as joint teams for the project. What the UAE-Oman Hafeet Rail means for you Initially, it will operate between the Al Wathba area near Abu Dhabi and the Omani port city of Sohar. With a speed reaching 200 kilometres per hour, journeys between Abu Dhabi and Sohar will take 100 minutes. Passenger trains will be able to accommodate up to 400 people. The project board aims to 'establish a record-breaking timeline for implementation', so expect it to be established sooner than you think. The freight train will have a capacity equivalent to 300 trucks which will reduce carbon emissions generated by trucks by 80 per cent. Etihad Rail passenger train (Credit: Etihad Rail) It will pass through diverse geographical areas, including the desert and mountainous regions and along Jebel Hafeet – which is where the new Hafeet Rail brand derives its name. The railway aims to be a quick and efficient way of connecting the two countries, which is hoped to reduce car traffic and, consequently, the carbon footprint. This railway project would see the two Gulf countries connect and align with long-term plans for the GCC vision of a Gulf Railway. The Gulf Railway was planned to be opened by 2025, but construction has yet to begin in earnest. And, for businesses, it's predicted that it will have a major impact on trade between the two countries as one freight train trip is capable of transporting 15,000 tonnes of general cargo. Hafeet Rail will connect five major ports and a number of free zones in both countries and will see transportation time cut in half compared to traditional on-ground methods. Hafeet Rail represents a groundbreaking achievement as the first modern cross-border train in the Middle East and the Arab world, connecting the Sultanate of Oman to the United Arab Emirates. — Hafeet Rail (@hafeetrail) June 2, 2024 Living in the UAE Everything you need to know about traffic cameras in Abu Dhabi No, they're not just for speed When is the next public holiday? Here's when you'll have your next day off 5 unexpected Emirates ID perks you should seriously be using And yes, they all make our lives a little bit easier
Gulf Insider
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Hafeet Rail: What To Know About The UAE-Oman Train Route
Hafeet Rail is a new joint rail venture that will connect the UAE and Oman by train for the first time. Named after Jebel Hafeet , the mountain straddling the UAE-Oman border, the project is a major milestone for regional transport and logistics. Hafeet Rail is a joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company. Its primary goal is to connect the Etihad Rail network at Al Ain with Sohar Port in Oman, integrating both countries into a unified transport and logistics chain. The project is valued at around $2.5 billion (approximately 960 million Omani rials). It represents the first cross-border railway network in the region. The Hafeet Rail project is part of a long-term vision to strengthen economic ties between the UAE and Oman. Phase I focuses on connecting Sohar with the UAE's national rail network, creating a fully integrated corridor for passenger and freight movement. The key objectives include: Establishing a seamless transport link across borders. Creating a unified logistics platform for the region. Unlocking social and economic benefits for both countries. Once operational, Hafeet Rail is expected to significantly enhance cross-border travel between the UAE and Oman, offering faster, more convenient, and scenic journeys for passengers. Reduced travel times between major cities Abu Dhabi to Sohar in approximately and Sohar to Al Ain. between major cities in approximately Comfortable, high-speed trains designed for passenger travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h , offering a modern and efficient alternative to driving. designed for passenger travel at speeds of up to , offering a modern and efficient alternative to driving. Improved accessibility for cross-border commuting, short getaways, and business trips, making both countries more connected than ever. for cross-border commuting, short getaways, and business trips, making both countries more connected than ever. Boost to tourism , allowing residents and visitors to explore destinations in both countries with ease, turning each into a gateway for the other. , allowing residents and visitors to explore destinations in both countries with ease, turning each into a gateway for the other. Scenic journeys through diverse landscapes, from desert plains to valleys and mountains, including the iconic Jebel Hafeet region. Hafeet Rail will offer a smooth, efficient alternative to driving, eliminating delays at road borders and reducing dependency on car travel, especially during peak or poor weather condition The Hafeet Rail, connects more than 12 passenger stations and cities across the two countries and linking 5 major ports and more than 15 integrated freight facilities. The Hafeet Rail network will stretch from Sohar Port in Oman to Abu Dhabi in the UAE, passing through Al Ain. The total length of the track will be 303 kilometres, with 238 kilometres making up the main route between Sohar and Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi to Sohar (via Al Ain): 1 hour and 40 minutes (Currently takes about 3 hours and 25 minutes) 1 hour and 40 minutes Sohar to Al Ain: 47 minutes (Down from the current 1 hour and 27 minutes) Train speeds: Passenger trains : Up to 200 km/h : Up to Freight trains: Up to 120 km/h Construction on the UAE-Oman rail network has officially begun. Hafeet Rail Company is currently working on finalising the timeline for when the railway will become operational.
What's On
14-05-2025
- Business
- What's On
Etihad Rail: Passenger train service set to launch in 2026
All aboard! One of the UAE's most ambitious travel projects is the 1,200km long Etihad Rail network. And all of us can't wait to hop onboard. Currently, it's only the freight trains that are in service, but we may have just got an update as to when the passenger train will launch. A meeting in May was held between HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, and Etihad Rail, where Sheikh Hamdan was updated on the latest developments. The meeting was led by HE Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail. The briefing included the launch date of the passenger train service, which, according to the Instagram post on Etihad Rail, is set to be next year, in 2026. 3 of 12 Etihad Rail - Underground Sheikh Hamdan onboard the passenger train Etihad Rail - passenger train Etihad Rail - passenger train and cargo train While the launch has its eyes set on the upcoming year, the full network will not be fully operational. Progress, however, indicates that the network will be fully operational by or before 2030. But, as with any huge megaproject, the launch date could change, but we are keeping our eyes peeled for any launch announcements. And as soon as we know, we will let you know. Learn more about the Etihad Rail The Etihad Rail is possibly the biggest megaproject the UAE has undertaken, and everyone is excited. The UAE's very own 'Sanpiercer' (not the official name) will link all seven emirates, connecting 11 cities and regions from Al Sila (bordering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) to Fujairah. Etihad Rail – network map When What's On spoke to Ahmed Al Musawa, CEO of Oman & Etihad Rail Co on the travel time between the emirates, he said: 'Train passenger services will enable users to plan their journeys between the emirates and cities more efficiently, significantly decreasing the travel time: Travelling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai will take up to 50 minutes Travelling from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will take 100 minutes Travelling from Dubai to Fujairah will take 50 minutes. Travelling from Abu Dhabi To Ruwais will take 70 minutes' But is this the end of the line? The short answer: Not at all! In February 2023, Oman Rail and Etihad Rail struck an accord, partnering with Mubadala and committing to a 303km stretch of track that will unite the two GCC nations by rail, direct from Sohar in Oman to the city of Abu Dhabi (in just 100 minutes) and beyond. It will also stretch westward to the borders of Qatar and Saudi Arabia. In even more recent news, the UAE also signed a contract to work with Jordan in constructing a 360km rail network. It could mark the first tentative steps of the next phase of inter-regional passenger travel for the GCC. And over the recent meeting, Emirates News Agency shared that 'future expansion plans' were also discussed, 'including proposed links with other GCC countries.' If you want to know everything there is to know about Etihad Rail and to stay updated with all the latest, read and bookmark this page here. Images: Etihad Rail and WAM > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Advantage Oman Forum 2025 unveils guide on investment opportunities
MUSCAT: A comprehensive investment guide, titled 'World of Opportunities', was launched against the backdrop of the Advantage Oman Forum 2025, which concluded at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, here on Monday, April 28, 2025. The guide details seven priority sectors poised for growth, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and the nation's commitment to economic diversification. Oman is rapidly emerging as a leader in the Renewable Energy Sector, particularly in green hydrogen production. The country has allocated 50,000 square kilometres for hydrogen projects, aiming to become a competitive low-emissions hydrogen supplier by 2030. Notably, the HyDuqm project, led by France's Engie and South Korea's Posco, anticipates attracting between $7 billion and $8 billion in investments to develop up to 5 GW of new wind and solar capacity and produce 200,000 tonnes of renewable hydrogen annually. The Logistics Sector remains a cornerstone of Oman's economic development. Strategically located at the crossroads of global trade routes, Oman is enhancing its logistics infrastructure to serve as a regional trade hub. The country's major ports — Suhar, Salalah, and Duqm — handled over 4.6 million TEUs and 63.1 million tonnes of cargo in 2023, reinforcing its status as a global logistics powerhouse. Recent collaborations, such as the expanded joint venture between Oman Rail and Etihad Rail, aim to enhance connectivity and boost trade volumes. In the Manufacturing Sector, Oman is focusing on diversifying its industrial base by promoting sectors like petrochemicals, mining, and technology-driven manufacturing. The Salalah Free Zone has attracted investments in pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and mining, while the Sohar Free Zone has become a hub for mining, ceramics, and construction materials. Additionally, the country is venturing into semiconductor manufacturing, with plans to develop advanced AI chips, enhancing its position in the global semiconductor industry. The Tourism Sector is a major pillar under Oman Vision 2040, with the country targeting 12 million visitors by 2040. The government is investing RO 3 billion (approximately $7.8 billion) to develop 13 integrated tourism complex projects, with 12 more in the pipeline. These complexes combine residential, hospitality, recreational, and commercial facilities, offering comprehensive experiences to tourists and residents alike, further positioning Oman as a top regional destination. Oman's commitment to building a digital economy is reflected in the country's broader investments in ICT infrastructure. Oman is encouraging innovation in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, with its ICT market projected to grow from $5.96 billion in 2025 to $9.11 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.88 per cent. Initiatives such as the National Digital Economy Programme are designed to enhance digital services, promote e-governance, and support the growth of tech startups, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economic model. In the Agriculture & Fisheries Sector, Oman is reinforcing its food security agenda. The government has launched 30 projects focusing on strategic crops, aquaculture, and water resources, aiming to increase local production, reduce reliance on imports, and create job opportunities for Omanis. These initiatives are not only ensuring sustainable food production but are also enhancing Oman's exports in the fisheries sector. The Advantage Oman Forum 2025 showcased Oman's commitment to economic diversification and sustainable development. By focusing on these seven strategic sectors, Oman is positioning itself as a competitive and attractive destination for global investors seeking sustainable and diversified opportunities. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
28-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Advantage Oman Forum 2025 unveils guide on investment opportunities
MUSCAT: A comprehensive investment guide, titled 'World of Opportunities', was launched against the backdrop of the Advantage Oman Forum 2025, which concluded at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, here on Monday, April 28, 2025. The guide details seven priority sectors poised for growth, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and the nation's commitment to economic diversification. Oman is rapidly emerging as a leader in the Renewable Energy Sector, particularly in green hydrogen production. The country has allocated 50,000 square kilometres for hydrogen projects, aiming to become a competitive low-emissions hydrogen supplier by 2030. Notably, the HyDuqm project, led by France's Engie and South Korea's Posco, anticipates attracting between $7 billion and $8 billion in investments to develop up to 5 GW of new wind and solar capacity and produce 200,000 tonnes of renewable hydrogen annually. The Logistics Sector remains a cornerstone of Oman's economic development. Strategically located at the crossroads of global trade routes, Oman is enhancing its logistics infrastructure to serve as a regional trade hub. The country's major ports — Suhar, Salalah, and Duqm — handled over 4.6 million TEUs and 63.1 million tonnes of cargo in 2023, reinforcing its status as a global logistics powerhouse. Recent collaborations, such as the expanded joint venture between Oman Rail and Etihad Rail, aim to enhance connectivity and boost trade volumes. In the Manufacturing Sector, Oman is focusing on diversifying its industrial base by promoting sectors like petrochemicals, mining, and technology-driven manufacturing. The Salalah Free Zone has attracted investments in pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and mining, while the Sohar Free Zone has become a hub for mining, ceramics, and construction materials. Additionally, the country is venturing into semiconductor manufacturing, with plans to develop advanced AI chips, enhancing its position in the global semiconductor industry. The Tourism Sector is a major pillar under Oman Vision 2040, with the country targeting 12 million visitors by 2040. The government is investing RO 3 billion (approximately $7.8 billion) to develop 13 integrated tourism complex projects, with 12 more in the pipeline. These complexes combine residential, hospitality, recreational, and commercial facilities, offering comprehensive experiences to tourists and residents alike, further positioning Oman as a top regional destination. Oman's commitment to building a digital economy is reflected in the country's broader investments in ICT infrastructure. Oman is encouraging innovation in areas like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, with its ICT market projected to grow from $5.96 billion in 2025 to $9.11 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.88 per cent. Initiatives such as the National Digital Economy Programme are designed to enhance digital services, promote e-governance, and support the growth of tech startups, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economic model. In the Agriculture & Fisheries Sector, Oman is reinforcing its food security agenda. The government has launched 30 projects focusing on strategic crops, aquaculture, and water resources, aiming to increase local production, reduce reliance on imports, and create job opportunities for Omanis. These initiatives are not only ensuring sustainable food production but are also enhancing Oman's exports in the fisheries sector. The Advantage Oman Forum 2025 showcased Oman's commitment to economic diversification and sustainable development. By focusing on these seven strategic sectors, Oman is positioning itself as a competitive and attractive destination for global investors seeking sustainable and diversified opportunities.
