Etihad Rail Completed and Fully Operational!

Etihad Rail, a pivotal economic project of the UAE Vision 2021 and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 has been completed and is now open for commercial operations. 

The national railway network was established in 2009 as part of 'Projects of the 50', a string of economic and development projects that aspire to develop the UAE as a hub for trade and commerce. 

Stretching from the Saudi border all the way across the UAE to Fujairah, the railway network runs through 11 cities and other regions in the country. 

It accounts for an estimated investment of AED40bn ($11bn). Moreover, Etihad Rail will also link the UAE to the other GCC countries, making it a reliable, cost-effective, and efficient means of transport for businesses and consumers. 

As a key network linking the major ports, airports, and industrial areas, the rail system is expected to serve nearly 16 million passengers and 50 million tonnes of freight annually. 

The UAE Government expects the national rail project to reinvent the transportation system through reduced costs, enhanced connectivity, and competitiveness, thereby boosting the Dh23 billion economy. 

The project is also expected to support the government's efforts to go green by being more energy efficient and reducing the carbon footprint. 

Etihad Rail will reduce road transport emissions per capita by 40% and overall CO2 emissions by 21% per year by 2050. 

The standard gauge, double-track railway network will enable freight and passenger trains to reach up to 120km/h (75 mph) and 200km/h (120 mph), respectively. 

The Etihad Rail has been designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and operate without disruptions or breakdowns. The modern network employs various measures, including sand fences and windbreaks to combat sandstorms, rerouting trains to skip flooded areas, and pumps to remove water from tracks to tackle heavy rains. 

Additionally, specialized maintenance teams have been formed to inspect the infrastructure for damages regularly. Routine safety training and awareness programs are being conducted for the rail employees to ensure a safe and secure environment for the passengers. 

Read more here.