Hafeet Rail: What to know about the UAE-Oman train route

Dubai: Hafeet Rail is a new joint rail venture that will connect the UAE and Oman by train for the first time. Named after Jebel Hafeet, the mountain straddling the UAE-Oman border, the project is a major milestone for regional transport and logistics.

What is Hafeet Rail?

Hafeet Rail is a joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company. Its primary goal is to connect the Etihad Rail network at Al Ain with Sohar Port in Oman, integrating both countries into a unified transport and logistics chain.

The project is valued at around $2.5 billion (approximately 960 million Omani rials). It represents the first cross-border railway network in the region.

Strategic goals of the UAE-Oman railway project

The Hafeet Rail project is part of a long-term vision to strengthen economic ties between the UAE and Oman. Phase I focuses on connecting Sohar with the UAE's national rail network, creating a fully integrated corridor for passenger and freight movement.

The key objectives include:

• Establishing a seamless transport link across borders.

• Creating a unified logistics platform for the region.

• Unlocking social and economic benefits for both countries.

How will the UAE-Oman Railway benefit travellers?

Once operational, Hafeet Rail is expected to significantly enhance cross-border travel between the UAE and Oman, offering faster, more convenient, and scenic journeys for passengers.

Key benefits for passengers include:

• Reduced travel times between major cities Abu Dhabi to Sohar in approximately and Sohar to Al Ain.

• Comfortable, high-speed trains designed for passenger travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h, offering a modern and efficient alternative to driving.

• Improved accessibility for cross-border commuting, short getaways, and business trips, making both countries more connected than ever.

• Boost to tourism, allowing residents and visitors to explore destinations in both countries with ease, turning each into a gateway for the other.

• Scenic journeys through diverse landscapes, from desert plains to valleys and mountains, including the iconic Jebel Hafeet region.

Hafeet Rail will offer a smooth, efficient alternative to driving, eliminating delays at road borders and reducing dependency on car travel, especially during peak or poor weather condition

The Hafeet Rail, connects more than 12 passenger stations and cities across the two countries and linking 5 major ports and more than 15 integrated freight facilities.

Route and network details of Hafeet Rail

The Hafeet Rail network will stretch from Sohar Port in Oman to Abu Dhabi in the UAE, passing through Al Ain. The total length of the track will be 303 kilometres, with 238 kilometres making up the main route between Sohar and Abu Dhabi.

Travel time reductions:

• Abu Dhabi to Sohar (via Al Ain): 1 hour and 40 minutes
  (Currently takes about 3 hours and 25 minutes)

• Sohar to Al Ain: 47 minutes
  (Down from the current 1 hour and 27 minutes)

Train speeds:

• Passenger trains: Up to 200 km/h

• Freight trains: Up to 120 km/h

When will Hafeet Rail be operational?

Construction on the UAE-Oman rail network has officially begun. Hafeet Rail Company is currently working on finalising the timeline for when the railway will become operational.