Latest news with #Projectsofthe50
Hi Dubai
5 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Mohammed bin Rashid Boards Etihad Rail for Dubai–Fujairah Journey Ahead of 2026 Passenger Launch
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, boarded the Etihad Rail passenger train for a journey between Dubai and Fujairah, marking a historic milestone in the lead-up to the network's commercial passenger launch in 2026. This significant journey reflects Sheikh Mohammed's commitment to overseeing strategic national infrastructure projects. He described Etihad Rail as a vital economic artery that supports the UAE's future, contributing to sustainability, connectivity, and improved quality of life. He also praised the project's role in enhancing the country's position as a leading logistics hub while fostering social and economic cohesion across the emirates. The trip underscores the transformative impact of Etihad Rail's passenger network, which will eventually connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, from Al Sila to Fujairah. Trains will run at speeds up to 200 km/h, with key stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. Each train will accommodate up to 400 passengers, with projected ridership reaching 36.5 million annually by 2030. During the journey, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Etihad Rail officials on the progress of the national project, which aligns with the UAE's broader goals of sustainable mobility and net-zero emissions by 2050. The visit was also attended by H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, who highlighted the leadership's integral role in the development of the railway since its inception under the "Projects of the 50" initiative. Etihad Rail continues to prepare for the full passenger service launch, promising a safe, efficient, and high-quality travel experience that reshapes transportation across the country. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Sharjah 24
7 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Mohammed bin Rashid boards Etihad Rail passenger train
The visit reflects his commitment to personally overseeing strategic infrastructure projects that serve all regions of the country and ensuring their alignment with the UAE's national development goals for the next phase. This journey marks a historic milestone and a pivotal phase in the development and operation of the UAE's national railway network, with the passenger train expected to commence commercial operations in 2026. Speaking on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said the Etihad Rail project is one of the most significant infrastructure undertakings in the UAE, with wide-ranging economic, social, and developmental impact. 'Etihad Rail is a vital economic artery that supports the UAE's journey to the future,' he said. 'It is a key pillar in our vision to build an integrated transport network that strengthens the UAE's position as a leading logistics hub, while facilitating the movement of people and goods.' His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid added that the project reflects the spirit of the Union, supports national aspirations, and strengthens sustainability, connectivity, and quality of life across all emirates. He expressed his appreciation for the team behind the project, describing their efforts as a source of pride and a vital contribution to building an advanced sustainable transport system. During the visit, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by the Etihad Rail team on the progress and milestones of the project. The team expressed their pride in hosting His Highness and described the journey as a historic moment that inspires continued commitment to delivering a world-class national rail network. This landmark journey embodies the UAE's vision for a connected and sustainable future, reinforcing the nation's ongoing investment in transformative infrastructure that links the emirates, strengthens social cohesion, and improves access between key destinations across the country. The passenger train will enhance everyday mobility, empower communities, and serve as a catalyst for tourism and social development within the UAE. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was welcomed by a delegation from Etihad Rail, led by Saeed AlAhbabi, Chief Business Support Officer, along with several senior company executives. Commenting on the visit, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, said, 'We had the honour of hosting His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum aboard a passenger train journey between the emirates of Dubai and Fujairah. This exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the UAE's visionary leadership to support national projects that propel the progress of our nation. He has been integral to our journey, witnessing the evolution of our network through its various phases: from the announcement of the 'Projects of the 50' in 2021 to the inauguration of the complete national railway network and the commencement of freight train operations in 2023. Today, we stand on the cusp of a transformative era in the UAE's transportation landscape and take immense pride in and deeply appreciate the support we have received for this national project. This is a project that drives us towards a brighter future by strengthening connectivity and economic integration across the UAE, thus, serving the nation's interests and enhancing its competitiveness on the global stage.' The passenger stations in Dubai and Fujairah will serve as key hubs within the national railway network once operations commence next year. The national project, developed and operated by Etihad Rail, will provide a safe, advanced, and sustainable mode of transport, strengthening the connectivity between different regions of the UAE. It is designed to offer citizens, residents, and visitors a fully integrated travel experience, built to the highest standards of comfort, reliability, and operational excellence. The project also reinforces the UAE's pioneering role in transport and rail innovation, establishing a new regional benchmark for sustainable mobility and infrastructure development. The UAE's passenger rail project, a key pillar of the country's national railway network, is among the region's most ambitious and forward-looking transport initiatives. It embodies a unified vision for integrated mobility and logistics, fully aligned with the UAE's national transport strategies. Once operational, the passenger service will seamlessly connect 11 cities and regions, from Al Sila to Fujairah, linking key urban centres and communities across the emirates. The project reflects the UAE's commitment to unity, connectivity, and sustainability, while advancing the national drive toward net zero emissions by 2050. Together, Etihad Rail's freight and passenger services are transforming how people and goods move across the country, setting a new benchmark for safe, efficient, and eco-friendly transport in the region. Etihad Rail continues to advance preparations for the launch of passenger operations with the highest levels of efficiency, quality, and operational readiness. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/hr, with the first four passenger stations located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. These strategic hubs will enhance accessibility, reduce travel times, and strengthen social and economic ties between communities, contributing to a higher quality of life across the nation. Each train is expected to accommodate up to 400 passengers, with annual ridership projected to reach 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030.
Gulf Insider
12-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
More Than Just A Train: Etihad Rail Will Spark Next Surge For UAE Economy, Jobs
Imagine stepping onto a sleek high-speed train in Abu Dhabi and arriving in Dubai in under an hour—no traffic, no stress, just a smooth, quiet ride across the desert. That futuristic vision is set to become reality as Etihad Rail, the UAE's ambitious national railway project, is on track for launch in 2026—and it promises more than just faster travel. It's poised to drive an economic shift that touches nearly every corner of the country. The numbers tell a compelling story. The Abu Dhabi–Dubai passenger line alone is expected to contribute up to Dh145 billion to the UAE's GDP over the coming decades, according to estimates from Emirates News Agency (WAM). And by 2030, the wider national rail network is projected to add Dh3.5 billion annually to the economy—with an impressive economic return rate of 15.5%. But that's just one track of a much larger transformation. Etihad Rail is not just laying tracks—it's laying the groundwork for the creation of more than 9,000 new jobs by 2030 across the UAE as part of a larger project. That includes opportunities in engineering, construction, train operations, logistics, and maintenance. Launched as part of the UAE's 'Projects of the 50' initiative with an investment of Dh50 billion, the UAE Railway Programme serves as a long-term strategy to connect all seven emirates and key urban and industrial hubs through a national rail network. The programme is expected to generate Dh200 billion in economic opportunities, according to official government data. It aims not only to develop a sustainable transport system but also to drive growth in sectors like environment, industry, and tourism. As stations, depots, and supporting infrastructure take shape across the Emirates, the project has already employed tens of thousands during its construction phase, with ripple effects across supply chains, factories, and service sectors. In fact, the development of local industries—like factories manufacturing railway sleepers and other materials—has already generated hundreds of additional roles. Meanwhile, partnerships with institutions like ADVETI (Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute) are preparing the next generation of Emiratis for lifelong careers in the transport and engineering sectors. 'It's not just a railway—it's a legacy project that's building a completely new labour base for the nation,' one Etihad Rail spokesperson said. This isn't only about jobs. With faster, greener travel linking major cities, the railway is expected to boost tourism, reduce road congestion, and support property value growth in areas surrounding future stations. Business travel will become more efficient, while transportation costs for goods and people are set to fall, benefiting both everyday residents and industries. It's also a powerful lever for economic diversification—reducing the country's dependence on oil by creating new pathways for commerce, logistics, and sustainable infrastructure. That includes a significant environmental gain, as electric-powered trains are expected to remove thousands of trucks and cars from UAE highways, reducing carbon emissions and aligning with the country's climate goals. According to the official UAE Government portal, the UAE Railway Programme aims to reduce 70% to 80% of carbon emissions over the next 50 years, aligning directly with the country's long-term sustainability goals. The economic momentum around Etihad Rail is only gaining speed—with job creation and broader financial benefits set to accelerate as the network expands and operations gear up. So whether you're a fresh graduate eyeing a future in transport, an entrepreneur watching shipping costs, or a resident dreaming of stress-free intercity travel, Etihad Rail isn't just a train project—it's a nation-building engine. The trains may start rolling in 2026, but for the UAE's economy and its workforce, the journey has already left the station.
Sharjah 24
02-07-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SDTPS wins 3 honours in Financial Excellence Performance Award
SDTPS got both the "Elite" Award, one of the highest institutional awards, and the "Leading Entity in Budget Standards Implementation" Award. Additionally, they selected Abdulrahim Al Ali as an "outstanding accountant." The awards were presented during a ceremony at Sharjah's Al Qasimia University Theatre, which was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Finance Department, and Engineer Hamad Jumaa Al Shamsi, Chairman of SDTPS, as well as numerous dignitaries, heads of government bodies, and representatives from the participating and award-winning institutions. Recognition of Excellence in Financial Management The awards honour SDTPS's outstanding overall financial performance, as well as its pioneering initiatives to advance public financial management in accordance with leading government standards. The Elite Award, in particular, is notable since it represents the beneficial financial impact of the department's projects and efforts, particularly those related to the UAE's "Projects of the 50." Chairman expresses pride in institutional success Engineer Hamad Jumaa Al Shamsi, Sharjah Executive Council Member and Chairman of SDTPS, expressed his gratitude for earning the Elite Award, the Award for Leading Entity in Budget Standards, and the Outstanding Accountant Award. He praised the achievement as the culmination of a continuous journey of institutional excellence in public finance, which is consistent with His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah's vision and the Emirate's goals of encouraging fiscal efficiency, transparency, and good governance. Appreciation for teamwork and leadership support Amani Al Mahayan, Director of the Financial Affairs Department at SDTPS, expressed her satisfaction with the department's triple win, adding that it represents the department's growth in financial administration as well as its steadfast commitment to implementing best government practices. On behalf of the awards team, she expressed gratitude to the organising committee and the Sharjah Financial Department. She also extended her heartfelt gratitude to Engineer Hamad Jumaa Al Shamsi for his steadfast support, highlighting the critical role his leadership and resource provision had in achieving the goal.
Mid East Info
19-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai Investments' Glass Companies Record Strong Year-on-Year Growth - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai Investments, the leading diversified investment company listed on the Dubai Financial Market, has announced strong year-on-year growth across its glass manufacturing portfolio under Glass LLC, with total production surpassing 14.8 million square meters in 2024. This milestone reflects the company's sharp focus on innovation, sustainability, and expanding demand driven by regional mega projects. Glass LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai Investments, consolidates the Group's glass-related operations and currently comprises three core entities: Emirates Glass (EG), Emirates Float Glass (EFG), and Saudi American Glass (SAG). With a strong regional footprint and vertically integrated capabilities, these companies cater to a wide spectrum of sectors including construction, architecture, energy, and transport. 'The glass sector is a cornerstone of Dubai Investments' industrial platform—driving significant growth and reinforcing the Group's leadership in the GCC's high-performance materials market. As the region advances through mega projects and places greater emphasis on sustainability, Dubai Investments glass businesses are well-positioned to lead through innovation and product excellence. Continuous investments in cutting-edge technologies are sharpening the Group's competitive edge, enabling it to meet evolving industry needs while laying a strong foundation for long-term market leadership,' said Abdulaziz Bin Yagub Al Serkal, CEO, Industrial Platform, Dubai Investments. Emirates Float Glass (EFG), the only glass manufacturer in the GCC offering a full portfolio of float glass products, achieved full production capacity in 2024, delivering over 12.6 million square meters of glass across five continents. EFG's offerings include Clear Glass, Body Tinted Glass, and Reflective Glass (both online and offline coatings), as well as Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass. EFG is the only ICV-certified glass manufacturer in the UAE and is listed in the Golden List by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development—recognizing its substantial contribution to the national economy. As an active participant in the UAE's Projects of the 50 and the Abu Dhabi Local Content Program, EFG's high ICV score underscores its commitment to local manufacturing, services, and workforce development. Its inclusion in the Golden List, curated by the Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) and Department of Government Support (ADGS), reinforces its position as a preferred supplier for government procurement. Emirates Glass contributed over 1.3 million square meters, marking an 8% year-on-year increase, with monthly growth peaking at 28% in December. Aiming to grow its market share from 23% to 27%, EG ramped up production through newly installed jumbo glass processing lines—including cutting, seaming, tempering, and lamination. The company also increased Bullet Resistant Glass production by 15% and launched fire-rated glass certified by Intertek. Additionally, EG commissioned a high-precision Glass Digital Printing unit to meet rising demand for customized architectural solutions. Saudi American Glass (SAG) on the other hand, recorded a 13% year-on-year increase, producing over 927,000 square meters—its highest-ever annual output. A surge in demand for digitally printed architectural glass drove production up by over 48%, with a 57% increase forecasted for 2025. This growth is supported by SAG's new brand, Elite Vitrage, which focuses on artistic glass solutions for interior applications, aligning with evolving design trends and premium requirements. This robust growth across Glass LLC is underpinned by the region's infrastructure boom—particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE—and an accelerating shift toward sustainability and energy efficiency, leading to increased demand for solar control and low-E coated glass. The rising adoption of façade and curtain walling applications in high-rise and commercial developments continues to drive momentum. 'Together, the companies under Glass LLC export to over 35 countries, with key markets including the GCC, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Emirates Glass and SAG are seeing sustained demand for double-glazed, laminated, and custom-coated units, while Emirates Float Glass anchors the supply chain as one of the region's most technologically advanced float glass facilities', added Abdulaziz Bin Yagub Al Serkal. Looking ahead, Glass LLC is investing in automation, capacity expansion, and next-generation glass technologies—aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 infrastructure roadmap and the UAE's Net Zero 2050 ambitions. About Dubai Investments: Dubai Investments is a publicly listed UAE based multi-asset investment Group, managing a diverse portfolio of businesses, generating sustainable financial returns to its shareholders. Established in 1995, Dubai Investments is one of the leading investments Group in the UAE, initiating new businesses and partnering with dynamic entities, creating strategic investment opportunities across the region. With 15,956 shareholders, a paid-up capital of Dhs. 4.25 billion and total assets worth more than Dhs. 22 billion, the Group applies insight and experience to expand and be a reliable growth driver for businesses within sectors like real estate, manufacturing, healthcare, education, investments and services. The Group's diverse portfolio consists of wholly and partly owned companies and reflects the Company's continued focus on business diversification to drive growth in line with evolving industry trends. Focused on leveraging strengths with an interest in establishing existing and new business opportunities with a long-term, strategic and creative approach and with an emphasis on sustainable returns and capital growth, Dubai Investments collaborates on investment strategies meeting the changing needs of the economy and the societies in which it operates. Complementing the strategic objectives and creating value for stakeholders, the Group pursues growth through mergers and acquisitions and business expansions.
