The Full Story UAE-Oman 238 kms Hafeet Rail Project nears completion, connecting Sohar Port and Abu Dhabi
Image Source : railwaygazette.com
As of October 1, 2025, the UAE and Oman’s ambitious cross-border Hafeet Rail project is nearing completion, marking a major step forward in regional rail integration. The 238-kilometre network connecting Abu Dhabi to Oman’s Sohar Port is now over halfway built, and is poised to reshape freight and passenger transport across the Gulf.
Progress update – Construction nears the finish line
The Hafeet Rail project, also known as UAE-Oman rail, which formally launched on April 23, 2024, is making rapid construction progress, according to Etihad Rail CEO Shadi Malak. Speaking during a panel at the Global Rail event in Abu Dhabi, Malak confirmed that the cross-border railway is “almost close to the finish line,” with construction currently between 50–70 percent complete.The project is being spearheaded by Hafeet Rail Company, a joint venture between Etihad Rail, Mubadala, and Oman’s Asyad Group. It represents the first-ever cross-border railway network in the region, aiming to directly connect the UAE and Oman via a modern, integrated rail system.The construction phase has seen substantial momentum in both countries. As of May 2025, groundwork, railbed preparation, and major structural works, particularly on bridges and tunnels, were actively underway, as reported by Zawya Projects. The line will eventually be capable of handling passenger and freight operations, supporting a new era of streamlined cross-border mobility
OMAN’S HAFEET RAIL PROJECT
Source : facebook.com
The Hafeet Rail Project, linking UAE to Sohar Port, which commenced in April 2023, is nearing completion. It represents the first-ever cross-border railway network in the region.
This project marks a major step forward in regional rail integration and is poised to reshape freight and passenger transport across the Gulf.
Some key points
- The railway is 238-kilometers long.
- The project is a joint venture between Etihad Rail, Mubadala, and Oman’s Asyad Group,
- The total investment is $3 billion.
- Initially used for transportation of goods. -Passenger services is stated to commence in 2026 and is expected to carry 400 passengers.
- The railway will travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h, reducing travel time between Abu Dhabi and Sohar to approximately 1.40 hours.
- The project will significantly reduce carbon emissions generated by trucks, with a single freight train capable of transporting 15,000 tonnes of general cargo.
- The railway will connect five major ports and several free zones in both countries.
