Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said that the UAE Railway Plan includes the development of a national network of rail projects connecting the seven emirates, and that the plan will continue for many years to come. He said that he will play a vital role in shaping the direction of this field. Major cities, ports and industrial areas of the UAE.
This will contribute to the creation of economic opportunities and jobs in the railway and supporting sectors, it added.
In comments to the News Agency of the Emirates (WAM) on the second day of the World Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference ‘Global Rail 2024’, he said the UAE’s transport sector will support growth in intra-regional trade and freight transport. He emphasized that he is actively contributing to the
He pointed out that in 2023, 22% of the UAE’s non-oil trade was transported by road, amounting to AED 576.4 billion.
Al Mazrouei emphasized that the advanced transport system has strengthened the UAE’s competitiveness in this important sector. He said the Etihad Rail project has seen steady growth in operational activity in terms of freight volumes and quality service to a wide range of companies.
The passenger transport phase is scheduled to begin at the end of 2025 and will connect all emirates with the country’s main tourist destinations.
He also pointed out that the Hafeet Railway Network project connecting the UAE and the Sultanate of Oman will establish the fastest rail link between the two countries, with significant participation of banks in financing this strategic initiative.
“This project is based on promising economic foundations and we look forward to working with other Gulf Cooperation Council countries to foster prosperity, development and growth,” he said.