Etihad Rail and the Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have signed a strategic agreement.
The document focuses on cooperation in securing railway alignments, station locations, and defining the contractual and operational responsibilities of both parties.
As part of the agreement, RTA will assign representatives to coordinate the issuance of non-objection certificates (NOCs) for any road works required by Etihad Rail, in accordance with the timeline and framework agreed by the signatories.
“We are delighted to cooperate with the RTA and sign this agreement, which will assist Etihad Rail in [developing] the national rail network of the UAE on time,” said Nasser Alsowaidi, chairman of Etihad Rail.
“In the past five years, Etihad Rail has managed to lay well-established foundations for its operations. Strengthening communication channels with other government entities will guarantee the efficient development of this important project, which will transform the transport industry across the UAE and drive our nation’s future growth,” he added.
Etihad Rail has committed to conducting technical studies and presenting the findings in the form of architectural reports and blueprints to the responsible governmental authorities in Dubai. Any modifications to the railway’s alignment or surrounding areas – particularly those that impact operational issues – will also be reported.
In addition, Etihad Rail has committed to defining the widths of its railway lines in a manner that guarantees maximum operational efficiency, and will cooperate with RTA on health and safety-related matters.
“Etihad Rail will constitute an essential part of the UAE’s future transport infrastructure, and this agreement marks an important step in realising this goal,” commented Mattar Al Tayer, chairman of the board and executive director of the RTA.
“Etihad Rail will provide a safe and efficient means of transport that will increase the number of public transport users in the UAE, contributing to significant economic and social benefits. [We] are glad to support this vital project,” he explained.
Upon completion, the Etihad Rail network will span approximately 1,200km across the UAE, transporting both freight and passengers. The railway will also form part of the GCC Railway Network, linking the Emirates to Saudi Arabia in the west, and Oman in the east.
