Oman and UAE announce commencement of Hafeet Rail project

28/05/24

Oman will soon begin construction on its revolutionary railway project, which will connect Sohar to Al Ain and Abu Dhabi - a distance of over 300km.

Named 'Hafeet Rail', the visionary OMR 1.15 billion (USD 3 billion) project will traverse through breathtaking landscapes, navigating mountains and valleys, while skirting alongside the iconic Jebel Hafeet. Once operational, it promises to condense travel times between Sohar and Al Ain to an unprecedented 47 minutes, while a journey between Sohar and Abu Dhabi will take 100 minutes, with train speeds surpassing 200 kilometers per hour.

The commencement of construction marks a significant milestone following the announcement of the project's implementation phase in late April. A pivotal moment was reached with the signing of a shareholder agreement among key stakeholders, including Oman Rail, Etihad Rail and Mubadala Investment Company.

This collaborative endeavor is poised to bolster national capabilities and foster in-country value, with a strong emphasis on private sector participation.

In its commitment to cutting-edge technology, Hafeet Rail will ensure that its fleet will be equipped with the latest technology. With the implementation of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, the network boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, facilitating full digital train control and tracking through GPS technology, thereby elevating reliability and safety standards.

However, the impact of the Hafeet Rail project transcends transportation. It is poised to position Oman as a dynamic regional hub, catalyzing job creation and unlocking numerous opportunities. From tourism to retail, an array of sectors stand to reap the benefits of this transformative initiative.

Moreover, each train is capable of accommodating up to 400 passengers, ensuring seamless and efficient mobility for commuters. In addition each train is primed to transport over 15,000 tonnes of cargo or approximately 270 standard containers, underscoring the vast potential of this venture.

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