In the journey towards the transformation phase, UAE has incorporated another sustainable project for modifying the transportation landscape- The Etihad Rail. Etihad railway project is an ambitious and comprehensive commute plan envisioned at a national level.
This national railway project will be the backbone of the UAE’s transportation and ground logistics sector. With the aim of improving connectivity and reducing traffic congestion, Etihad Rail will also boost economic growth.
Entrenching its roots as the cornerstone of the United Arab Emirates goal, Etihad Rail features services that align with the broader UAE visions for 2021 and beyond.
The Etihad rail project is designed to span across all seven Emirates to facilitate the reliable and efficient movement of passengers and goods.
Under the project’s network, all the major urban areas, alongside the ports, industrial zones, and strategic borders, will be linked to foster regional integration. Moreover, the project reflects a monumental leap towards innovating the UAE’s transportation sector.
With significant investment and meticulous planning, the project is poised to be regarded as the UAE’s first railway network, planting the roots of modernization and development in the transport industry.
For a comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date understanding of Etihad Rail Network, let’s delve into the blog to explore the project’s services, expected opening date, major routes, and different impacts.
Etihad Rail Project - An Overview
The 1,200 km long railway infrastructure project of Etihad was launched in 2009, establishing a flagship strategy to build a state-of-the-art railway network across the nation.
Furthermore, the project was announced under Federal Law No.2, approving that the railway would operate for both freight and passenger transport services.
The project is jointly owned by the UAE's federal government (30%) and the government of Abu Dhabi (70%), and it aligns with the UAE's Vision 2021 and Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030. Furthermore, Etihad Rail was developed with a 20 billion dollar investment.
Phases of the Etihad Rail Project
The project is developing without interruption and is divided into multiple phases. Each phase envisions progressively expanding the network across the United Arab Emirates.
1. Phase 1
With the completion in 2016, segment 1 involves the expansion of the network that spans over 264 km and connects Shah and Habshan gas fields to Al Ruwais port.
This phase primarily offers freight services and involves Abu Dhabi National Oil Company in the partnership. Moreover, stage 1 aims to facilitate the transport of sulfur from the inland gas fields to the coast for export.
2. Phase 2
Segment 2’s construction started in 2020 and was completed in 2023. The network was additionally expanded over 605 km. In light of this phase, Jebel Ali Port and Khalifa Port are expected to connect with the Omani Border at Al Ain and the Saudi Border at Ghuwaifat.
However, this phase was constructed under sub-divisions, whereas the final sub-division involved a 145 km connection between Dubai and Sharjah.
- Phase 2 included expanding logistics services and entrenching the basis for the network's future passenger capabilities.
- Moreover, 15 tunnels, 32 underpasses, and 35 bridges have been constructed under various Phase 2 packages.
3. Future Phases
The network will expand further in the subsequent phases, including major urban centers and other Emirates. With the aim of improving connectivity and accessibility, the future phases will open its services for the much-awaited passenger services while taking the freight services to every corner.
Etihad Rail Network
Seamlessly integrating the new Etihad Railway with the existing transportation infrastructure, the network is designed to include airports, ports, and roads within its routes.
As the UAE aims to develop a more efficient and cohesive network, this integration is crucial for the transportation of logistics and passengers across the UAE.
Moreover, the strategic connections highlight its role in catalyzing economic activities by linking industrial hubs and economic zones.
1. Regional Integration
Etihad Rail is set to become pivotal for regional integration. Its aim is to build, design, and operate an effective link from the UAE to neighboring countries. This strategy will prove crucial for boosting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange within the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region.
Etihad Rail Stations and Routes
1. Etihad Rail Stations
Various stations are located strategically, featuring Etihad Railway, to maximize convenience and accessibility for both passenger and logistics services. Some key stations are;
- Abu Dhabi Central Station: This station is situated in the heart of the capital and serves as a major hub for passenger travel.
- Jebel Ali Station: Connecting Jebel Ali Port to the railway network, this station is significant because it serves as the crucial link between the world’s busiest ports and the railway.
- Dubai Central Station: Another major passenger hub, the station’s location in the prime area is aimed at maximizing connectivity within Dubai and other regions of the Emirates.
- Khalifa Port Station: This station will provide freight services to streamline the transportation of goods to and from the port.
- Al Ain Station: This station is essential for both trade and passenger movement purposes and will provide a link to Oman.
- Sharjah Station: Linking Sharjah to northern Emirates, Sharjah Station will be pivotal for freight and passenger transportation.
2. Etihad Rail Route Map
Etihad Rail Route Map features a comprehensive layout for the UAE’s railway system and illustrates its link across several Emirates. The route also integrates ports and borders for more enhanced connectivity. Prime routes include;
- Abu Dhabi to Dubai: This is an important link connecting the UAE capital with the bustling economic hub of Dubai. This route will provide both trade and passenger services.
- Shah to Ruwais: As an initial segment, this route is fundamental in sulfur transportation from inland gas zones to the coast.
- Abu Dhabi to Al Ain and Al Ain to Oman: This route serves as a critical point, facilitating connectivity and trade with Oman.
- Dubai to Sharjah and Northern Emirates: This network segment ensures broader national coverage and expands the network to the UAE’s northern parts.
- Abu Dhabi to Saudi Arabia: This link is developed to bolster economic and trade relations with the UAE’s largest trading partner, Saudi Arabia.
Projects of Etihad Railway
1. OE Rail
UAE has entered a new era for stimulating bilateral ties between Oman and the United Arab Emirates. This joint venture includes several pinpoints;
- Etihad Railway aims to connect Sohar Port to Abu Dhabi and Al Ain of the UAE.
- The three-hundred-three-kilometer route requires an investment of $3 billion from both countries.
- In an aspiration to build a sustainable, efficient, and connected route, the travel time of this route is 100 minutes.
- To conduct the construction of the desired framework, the CEO of Etihad Rail (Shadi Malak) and Oman’s Logistics Company, ASYAD, have signed an agreement.
2. RailDirect
RailDirect is another project of Etihad that provides advanced freight transportation solutions within the UAE. RailDirect is designed to view certain values, including;
- To redefine the future of transportation.
- Deliver goods with cost-effective strategies.
- Sustainable delivery with cross-border services.
- To catalyze connectivity between industries and countries.
Etihad Rail Passenger Services
1. When will it Open?
People are eagerly anticipating the passenger service opening of Etihad Rail Network, which will soon open the track for passengers. The first passenger trip of the Etihad Railway was made on 26 January 2024 from Abu Dhabi to Al Dhannah.
However, rail’s primary focus is on freight services, and it is steadily progressing in lining up passenger movements. It has been announced to be fully operational by 2030.
Considering Etihad Rail tickets, the fare and ticketing system have been taken under the supervision of RTA after the recent contract between Etihad Rail and the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai.
The contract was signed in February and is expected to include the same Nol Card, which is used for public transportation purposes.
2. Included Passenger Services
- The passenger services of Etihad Railway aim to revolutionize the transportation system within the UAE, where passengers can enjoy an efficient, fast, greener, and reliable alternative to road travel.
- The trains will run up to 200 kph, reducing travel time, and every train will have over 400 seats. The services ensure a convenient and comfortable mode of commute, and different classes will be featured to align diverse income groups.
- The seating segments comprise economy class, business class, and first-class seats.
3. When will Etihad Rail Open for Passengers?
The project is expected to open its most anticipated passenger services by 2024; however, the initial passenger services will only open for ADNOC’s contractors and staff.
Furthermore, commencement will take place in several phases, while the full-fledged passenger service opening depends upon the completion of current testing and construction phases. Expected travel time is;
- The approximate travel time for passengers is 50 minutes from Dubai to Fujairah.
- Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will take 1 hour and 40 minutes, resulting in a 30-40% reduction in travel time compared to other transportation modes.
4. Etihad Rail Completion Date
The massive UAE railway network was finished with construction in 2023; however, the development is going through several testing phases.
With freight services already in operation, passenger services are given a timeline until 2024 to ensure the integration and full-phased expansion within operational services.
Impact of Etihad Railway Network
1. Environmental and Economic Impact
Established to deliver substantial environmental and economic benefits to the UAE, Etihad Railway is an enormous, fast-moving transport anticipated in the UAE.
Environmental Impacts
- Lower Emissions: Unlike road commuting modes, Etihad Rail is designed to reduce carbon footprints. This energy-efficient system contributes to the UAE’s environmental sustainability goals.
- Lowering Traffic Congestion: The Etihad network is a boastful alternative to road transport, reducing road traffic and traffic accidents.
- Preservation of Nature: The project’s primary emphasis includes reduced environmental impacts and protection of natural habitats.
Economic Impacts
- Job Creation: The enormous construction and operation plan has created thousands of job vacancies in engineering, operations, and construction across numerous industries.
- Economic Diversification: The railway network aims to facilitate trade and maximize connectivity, which will ultimately boost the economic diversification goals of the UAE.
- Tourism Enhancement: The Etihad Railway passenger service will offer tourists a more efficient transport mode, increasing the number of tourists in the UAE.
2. Technological Improvement
Etihad Railway is pioneering technology within the network to catalyze safety, efficiency, and reliability.
- Integration of Smart Technologies: Etihad Rail features smart technologies, including charging stations, real-time train tracking, mobile applications, uninterrupted Wi-Fi services, and an automated ticketing system. The incorporation of an air conditioning system is a supplementary addition for a seamless passenger experience.
- Sustainable Construction Practices: Etihad Railway has been constructed using sustainable practices. These initiatives include utilizing eco-friendly materials and techniques to reduce the project's ecological footprint.
- Advanced Signaling System: The network incorporates a cutting-edge communication and signaling system to enhance the adequate functionality of train operations, optimize traffic flow, and enhance safety.
Closing In
In a nutshell, the Etihad Railway project is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to economic diversification and sustainable future. Representing the UAE’s first fast-moving railway network, Etihad reflects a jump to standardize the state’s infrastructure and transportation.
Moreover, the meticulous planning and significant investment value are justified by the integration of cutting-edge technology.
Set to become a cornerstone of the UAE’s transportation system and to revolutionize the UAE, Etihad Rail is poised to improve connectivity, enhance quality of life, and reduce ecological impacts.
With the continuous progress in the project, passenger services are emerging as a new era within the UAE’s traveling program.
Furthermore, Etihad Rail is introduced as an efficient and convenient alternative to road travel. Deliberating the strategic significance of Etihad Rail, it will not be exaggerated to state the project’s strengthened facilitation of passenger and logistics movement.
Etihad Railway is not only a transportation network but also a visionary approach to shed a broader light on the UAE Vision 2021 goals. The project’s ambitious vision is comprehendible beyond future sustainability and encapsulates a world-class railway system.
In addition, Etihad Rail offers a leap forward towards a more connected and brighter future, catalyzing social, economic, and environmental progress.
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