MUSCAT – Hafeet Rail, a joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company, announced the completion of 40 percent of the total work on the railway link between the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates. It is one of the most prominent joint strategic projects in the field of infrastructure, transport and logistics in the region.

The 238-kilometre railway project aims to create an integrated logistics network to boost trade, strengthen supply chains and deepen economic ties between the two countries. Construction is advancing across several strategic locations along the route, including Al Ain, Al Buraimi, Wadi Al Jizzi and Sohar.

The route traverses urban and industrial zones as well as mountainous terrain and deep valleys, requiring complex engineering solutions such as tunnels, bridges and flood protection systems to ensure safe and sustainable operations.

Abdulrahman bin Salem Al Hatmi, CEO of Asyad Group, said the pace of implementation reflects a commitment to launching passenger and freight services as scheduled. He added that the progress builds on the foundations of the national railway sector established by Oman Rail, highlighting the role of Omani expertise in delivering the project.

According to project figures, earthworks have reached 27 million cubic metres, while concrete works have exceeded 100,000 cubic metres. Tunnel excavation is ongoing in two major tunnels, alongside the construction of 80 engineering structures, 900 piles and 130 box culverts.

Work is also progressing on key facilities in Sohar and Al Buraimi, which are expected to support connectivity between ports, industrial zones and logistics hubs, enabling seamless cross-border freight movement.

Ahmed Al Masawi Al Hashemi, CEO of Hafeet Rail, said the milestone demonstrates the project’s strong foundation, adding that the next phase will focus on maintaining momentum, strengthening partnerships and delivering long-term value in line with international standards.

He noted that the project has achieved 10 million safe working hours without serious injuries, underscoring robust safety systems and effective risk management across sites.

The railway will incorporate advanced control, signalling and communication systems based on international standards, designed to enhance safety, increase capacity and enable automated operations under varying weather conditions.

Beyond freight, the project is expected to pave the way for future passenger services, supporting tourism, business travel and closer economic and social integration between Oman and the UAE.