The Hafeet Rail project, aimed at revolutionizing travel between the UAE and Oman, is now set to materialize as it enters the implementation phase. Previously known as the ‘Oman and Etihad Rail Company’, Hafeet Rail emerged on April 23 as the new identity of the joint venture overseeing the railway operations.
Abu Dhabi Media Office announced on May 10 that Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company have inked an agreement to kickstart construction of the Omani-Emirati railway network.
Key Project Details:
Route:
- The railway track stretches 303km from the port in Sohar, Oman, to the Al Wathba area in Abu Dhabi.
- It seamlessly connects to the UAE National Rail Network and its stations countrywide.
Hafeet Rail Journey:
- The route promises a scenic expedition, traversing diverse landscapes from expansive deserts to mountainous terrains.
- Notably, it passes through Jebel Hafeet, the mountain after which the joint venture is named.
About Hafeet Rail:
- Speed:
- Passenger Trains: Speeds of up to 200 km/h
- Freight Trains: Speeds of up to 120 km/h
- Passenger Capacity:
- Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers.
- Travel Time Reductions:
- UAE to Oman via Abu Dhabi, Al Ain to Sohar: Expected to take 1 hour and 40 minutes, significantly down from the current 3 hours and 25 minutes.
- Sohar to Al Ain: Estimated travel time of 47 minutes, a substantial decrease from the current 1 hour and 27 minutes.
With these developments, the Hafeet Rail project promises to enhance connectivity and facilitate swift and efficient travel between the two nations.