Etihad Rail is set to expand its freight network’s capacity, currently operating at full potential, to support growing business demands and enhance logistics infrastructure across the United Arab Emirates.
The UAE’s ambitious railway project, Etihad Rail, is preparing to scale up its freight operations, with plans to increase capacity across its national network. Omar Al Sebeyi, acting chief executive of Etihad Rail’s freight section, revealed that the current aggregate transportation line is operating at 100% capacity, moving up to 60,000 tonnes of materials daily.
The freight network, stretching from the Saudi Arabian border to Fujairah, plays a crucial role in the nation’s logistics ecosystem. Beyond aggregates, the rail system transports diverse cargo including petrochemicals, polymers, and shipping containers, offering significant environmental and economic benefits.
Key highlights of the Etihad Rail freight network include:
A significant recent development is the launch of a “bonded rail corridor” connecting Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi with terminals in Fujairah. This initiative aims to streamline customs procedures and enhance trade efficiency, with pilot operations expected to commence in late 2025.
“Our goal is to bring ports closer to customers. Rail is an enabler of trade and economy,” Mr. Al Sebeyi emphasized during the Global Rail conference in Abu Dhabi.
The network has already demonstrated impressive performance, having transported 64 million tonnes of granulated sulphur since 2016. The rail service offers enhanced resilience, with routes taking just four hours compared to 12 hours via alternative transport methods.
Looking ahead, Etihad Rail is also exploring regional connectivity, with ongoing plans to potentially connect with the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) railway network.
