MUSCAT : The launch of these works marks a key milestone in one of the most transformative phases of the cross-border rail project.

According to the company, tunnelling is now underway following the completion of detailed design work, with access roads already constructed to facilitate the movement of heavy equipment and construction materials. Excavation and blasting operations are progressing at the tunnel entrances in preparation for the full-scale excavation phase.

Once civil works on the tunnels are completed, the project will move into the next stages, including track formation, rail laying, and installation of railway systems within the tunnels.

The tunnelling process is being carried out using advanced engineering techniques and state-of-the-art monitoring systems, with a strong emphasis on safety, sustainability, and environmental protection to ensure minimal impact on surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Hafeet Rail also reported the arrival of its first shipment of railway tracks via Sohar Port, a development that signals the project’s transition toward the track-laying phase. Construction efforts continue in other parts of the project as well, including excavation, backfilling, and infrastructure development, which encompasses the building of 881 wadi culverts and 57 bridges, some reaching heights of up to 34 meters.

The joint Oman-UAE railway network — the first cross-border rail project of its kind in the region — is being led by Hafeet Rail Company, a partnership between Etihad Rail, Mubadala, and Oman’s Asyad Group. Since its launch in April 2024, the project has been advancing steadily in line with its timeline.

With tunnelling now in motion, the project moves closer to its goal of becoming a cornerstone of regional connectivity, designed to boost cross-border trade, streamline logistics, and support sustainable economic growth for both nations.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.