Get this image on: gettyimages.com | License details Creator: GIUSEPPE CACACE | Credit: AFP via Getty Images
The objective of the agreement is to create railway services connecting Abu Dhabi City and the Al Dhannah region.
In Abu Dhabi, H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Office of Development and Martyrs Families Affairs at the Presidential Court and Chairman of Etihad Rail, observed the signing of a strategic partnership agreement between Etihad Rail and ADNOC. The agreement aims to establish railway services connecting Abu Dhabi City and the Al Dhannah region.
The signing ceremony took place at ADNOC Headquarters in the presence of Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC. The agreement was signed by Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, and Saif Al Falahi, Executive Vice President, Group Business Support & Special Tasks at ADNOC.
Sheikh Theyab emphasized the vital role of the UAE’s railway network in contributing to the country’s strategic goals, highlighting the importance of an integrated rail system for major cities globally. He expressed Etihad Rail’s commitment to providing world-class passenger experiences and contributing to the UAE’s sustainable development.
The collaboration reflects a dedication to the rail industry, aligning with Etihad Rail’s vision for excellence. His Highness Sheikh Theyab emphasized the partnership’s significance in enhancing the UAE’s transportation and logistics infrastructure to meet global standards, supporting economic development as envisioned by the country’s leadership.
Dr. Al Jaber emphasized ADNOC’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and infrastructure development, in line with the leadership’s directives for a lower carbon future. The partnership aims to explore opportunities for dedicated railway services between Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah, with ADNOC employees expected to benefit from future rail travel.
The agreement facilitates knowledge and expertise sharing between the two companies and is aligned with leadership directives to advance national capabilities and resources for sustainable development. It serves as a benchmark for other companies seeking opportunities within the National Rail Network, a significant infrastructure project in the UAE.
Etihad Rail is actively progressing its passenger services development, with recent agreements including a green loan with First Abu Dhabi Bank and a partnership with Spain’s CAF for the design, manufacturing, supply, and maintenance of passenger trains. These initiatives contribute to the realization of Etihad Rail’s role as one of the UAE’s largest and most important infrastructure projects.