H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, and Chairman of Etihad Rail, recently highlighted the significance of the agreements signed during the state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the UAE. These agreements, in line with the wise directives of the leadership of both countries, aim to enhance the longstanding historical relations between the UAE and Oman, support economic and commercial integration, and strengthen social and cultural ties.
One of the key agreements signed during the visit was a shareholder agreement between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company, marking the commencement of construction works for a joint railway project. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed emphasized that this project is a significant step forward in the long history of cooperation between the two neighboring countries, paving the way for a better future for their people.
Abdulsalam bin Mohammed Al Murshidi, President of the Oman Investment Authority, highlighted the importance of the joint railway network in the logistics sector. He mentioned that the project will stimulate various industrial sectors and economic activities, provide increased commercial and investment opportunities for the private sector, and support the integration of Omani port activities with regional and international markets. This, in turn, will drive the competitiveness of both countries at a global trade level, enhancing their economic prosperity.
Furthermore, an agreement was signed to award the civil works and construction tender for the joint network to an Omani-Emirati alliance, led by Trojan Construction Group and Galfar Engineering and Contracting. This aligns with efforts to build national capabilities and drive in-country value, involving the private sector in the implementation of the project. The alliance will also include Tristar Engineering and Construction, and the National Infrastructure Construction Company.
In addition, a tender for the systems and integration of the railway network was awarded to a joint venture between Siemens and HAC. The network will feature advanced infrastructure with full digital train control and tracking through GPS technology, enhancing reliability.
The joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company unveiled its new corporate identity as Hafeet Rail, paying homage to Jebel Hafeet that stretches between Oman and the UAE. This rebranding signifies a new chapter in the partnership between the two countries in the railway sector.
Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized the accomplishments of the joint venture since its inception, highlighting its efficiency and dedication in establishing a safe and sustainable railway network. He noted the role of the network in facilitating local and regional trade, opening new opportunities in infrastructure, transportation, and logistics sectors, and contributing to economic diversification and sustainable development.
The signing of these agreements reinforces the commitment of both governments to the project and reflects their shared goal of strengthening ties and historical relations between the UAE and Oman. The agreements also support efforts to enhance collaboration across economic, commercial, investment, cultural, and developmental domains, promoting long-term sustainable development in both countries.