On January 25, a historic moment unfolded as Etihad Rail, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), marked a significant milestone by conducting its inaugural passenger journey between Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah. This achievement propels the development of the UAE’s passenger rail network, promising enhanced connectivity and convenience for travelers across the Emirates.
- Strategic Partnership and Route Overview
- Operational Status and Expansion
- Network Connectivity and Speed
- Passenger Amenities and Comfort
- International Collaboration and Future Expansion
- Leadership and Industry Impact
- Operational Highlights and Future Plans
- Luxury Train Service
Strategic Partnership and Route Overview:
The passenger route is a result of the strategic partnership between ADNOC and Etihad Rail. Initially connecting Abu Dhabi to Al Dhannah, situated 250 km west of the capital, the route is designed to cater to ADNOC’s staff and contractors. Future plans aim to expand the passenger network, linking all seven emirates and further bolstering the UAE’s transportation infrastructure.
Operational Status and Expansion:
While the official dates for the commencement of passenger rail operations across the entire network are pending, it’s noteworthy that Etihad Rail’s freight train services have been operational since 2023. The expansive 900 km network links all seven emirates, connecting vital maritime ports and industrial zones, including Khalifa Port, Jebel Ali Port, Port of Fujairah, Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), Al Ruwais, and Ghuweifat.
Network Connectivity and Speed:
Etihad Rail’s comprehensive 900 km network will seamlessly connect 11 cities in the UAE, from Al Sila in the western region of Abu Dhabi to Fujairah on the eastern coast. The passenger rail service, set to operate at an impressive speed of 200 km/h, aims to significantly reduce travel time, making the journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai just 50 minutes and from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah a mere 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Passenger Amenities and Comfort:
The passenger trains will not only provide efficient transportation but also prioritize passenger comfort. Carriages will be equipped with modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, charging points, and a variety of food and beverage options, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.
International Collaboration and Future Expansion:
In September 2022, Etihad Rail extended its reach by signing an agreement with Oman Rail to establish the Oman-Etihad Rail Company. This collaboration aims to develop a 303 km railway link between Sohar and Abu Dhabi, further reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity between the two cities.
Leadership and Industry Impact:
Dignitaries, including Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group Chief Executive of ADNOC, played a pivotal role in the inaugural journey. Dr Al Jaber emphasized that the Etihad Rail project serves as a vital artery for economic growth, infrastructure development, and the drive towards decarbonization in the UAE.
Operational Highlights and Future Plans:
The CEO of Etihad Rail, Shadi Malak, underscored the project’s significance in positioning the UAE as a leading global hub in logistics, transportation, and infrastructure. Although specific dates for the commencement of the UAE’s passenger rail service are pending, the announcement revealed that the first passenger station would be Sakamkam in Fujairah.
Luxury Train Service:
In a nod to luxury travel, plans for a distinctive “rail cruise” were unveiled, crossing the UAE from Fujairah to the Liwa desert. This luxury service, known as the “rail cruise,” will consist of 15 lavish carriages, a result of a groundbreaking agreement between Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale and Etihad Rail.
The successful inaugural passenger journey by Etihad Rail between Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah not only signifies a crucial step in the development of the UAE’s passenger rail network but also reinforces the country’s commitment to advancing its transportation infrastructure. As the project progresses, the nation is poised to experience unparalleled connectivity, reduced travel times, and a new era of modern, efficient, and comfortable rail travel.
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