Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of UAE's national railway network, has announced the successful laying of tracks at the railhead in Saih Shuaib, towards Abu Dhabi and Dubai. 

 

Early in January, it had laid tracks across the Al Dhafrah Region under Package A of Stage Two of the country's ambitious railway network project.

 

The track-laying ceremony was inaugurated by Etihad Rail Chairman Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the presence of senior government officials.

 

Sheikh Theyab later reviewed the project updates personally taking a 10-km ride on an inspection train designated for supervision and inspection of construction works, from the starting point of track laying in Saih Shuaib towards both Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

 

During the journey, he was briefed on Etihad Rail’s procedures and measures to protect the natural habitat and wildlife during the implementation of the project within the forest, including the development of bridges, culverts and animal crossings. 

 

Emphasising the significance of the project, Sheikh Theyab said Etihad Rail was capable of revolutionising the UAE’s transport sector as it was a key part of the UAE’s top integrated transport ecosystem, thus strengthening its global position in provision of quality transport infrastructure. 

 

Etihad Rail said it has successfully completed Stage One of the network. It was delivered on schedule and within budget and is now fully operational. The route spans 264 km, transporting granulated sulphur from sources at Shah and Habshan to the export point at Ruwais. 

 

Stage Two links the UAE and Saudi Arabia from Fujairah Port to Ghuweifat through Mussafah, Khalifa Port and Jebel Ali Port. 

 

Upon completion, the railway will redefine logistics and mobility in the region, providing a modern, safe, efficient and sustainable mode of transport that will connect all regions of the UAE to its neighbouring GCC countries, said the statement.

 

Built to international standards, Etihad Rail’s network will span approximately 1,200 km, acting as a catalyst for economic growth and sustained social development, it added.-TradeArabia News Service