Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: WAM
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, visited the Etihad Rail project. During his visit, he took a passenger train journey between Dubai and Fujairah. This visit shows how personally he is involved in important infrastructure projects in the UAE. He wants to make sure these projects serve all parts of the country and match the UAE’s development plans for the future.
A Historic Journey for UAE’s Railway Network
The passenger train journey marks an important moment in the development of the UAE’s national railway system. This railway will connect different emirates and is expected to start commercial passenger operations in 2026. This means people will soon be able to travel easily and quickly by train between key cities in the UAE.
Sheikh Mohammed Speaks on Etihad Rail’s Importance
During the visit, Sheikh Mohammed said the Etihad Rail project is one of the biggest infrastructure projects in the UAE. He explained that it has many benefits for the economy, society, and the country’s overall development. He called the railway a "vital economic artery" that supports the UAE’s future growth.
He added that the railway is part of a larger vision to build a connected transport network. This network will help the UAE become a leading global logistics hub, making it easier to move people and goods across the country.
The Spirit of the Union and National Goals
Sheikh Mohammed also mentioned that the railway project shows the spirit of the Union of the Emirates. It supports the country’s national goals by improving sustainability, connectivity, and the quality of life in all emirates. He praised the team working on Etihad Rail, calling their work a source of pride and an important step toward building a modern and sustainable transport system.
Project Progress and Team Briefing
During the visit, the Etihad Rail team updated Sheikh Mohammed on the progress of the railway. The team expressed their happiness in hosting him and said this journey is a historic moment. It motivates them to keep working hard to build a world-class national rail network that meets the highest standards.
UAE’s Vision for a Connected and Sustainable Future
This railway journey shows the UAE’s goal for a connected and sustainable future. The project links the emirates and helps strengthen social connections. It also makes travel between key places easier, supporting everyday life and economic growth. The passenger train will help people move around better, encourage tourism, and support social development across the country.
Welcome by Etihad Rail Leadership
Sheikh Mohammed was warmly welcomed by Etihad Rail leaders, including Saeed AlAhbabi, the Chief Business Support Officer, and other senior company officials. Their presence showed the importance of the visit and the pride they have in the project’s progress.
Chairman of Etihad Rail Comments on Visit
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, also spoke about the visit. He said it showed the UAE leadership’s strong support for projects that help the nation grow. He mentioned how Sheikh Mohammed has been part of the project from its early days, starting with the announcement of the ‘Projects of the 50’ in 2021.
The Chairman said the railway is now moving toward a new phase that will change transportation in the UAE. It improves connectivity and economic links across the country. He also said this project helps the UAE compete better in the global economy.
Key Passenger Stations and Network Features
The passenger train will stop at major stations in Dubai and Fujairah, which will be important hubs in the national railway system. Etihad Rail will develop and operate this project, providing a safe, advanced, and eco-friendly way to travel.
The railway will make it easy for citizens, residents, and visitors to travel with comfort and reliability. It also shows the UAE’s leadership in transport innovation, setting new standards for sustainable travel and infrastructure in the region.
Ambitious National Rail Project for the Region
The UAE’s passenger rail project is one of the most ambitious in the region. It is a big part of the national railway network and fits well with the UAE’s transport strategies. The railway connects 11 cities and regions, stretching from Al Sila to Fujairah.
This connection will link important urban areas and communities across the country. The project supports the UAE’s goals for unity, better connectivity, and a cleaner environment by helping reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Transforming Transport Across the UAE
Etihad Rail’s freight and passenger trains are changing how goods and people move in the country. They provide a safe, efficient, and green way of transport that is setting new standards in the region.
Preparing for Passenger Train Launch
Etihad Rail is preparing carefully for the start of passenger services. The trains will run at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. The first four passenger stations will be in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. These stations will make travel easier, reduce travel times, and help build stronger ties between communities.
Each train will hold up to 400 passengers. By 2030, it is expected that 36.5 million passengers will travel by train every year, showing how popular and important this service will be.
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