New rail link to connect Abu Dhabi City to Al Dhannah

A new rail link will connect Abu Dhabi City to Al Dhannah (formerly known as Ruwais) in Al Dhafrah region, under an agreement between Etihad Rail and ADNOC.

The rail link will serve ADNOC workers, with both companies exploring ways to "share knowledge and expertise" and serve as an important benchmark for other companies exploring opportunities to leverage the success of the National Rail Network.

His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Office of Development and Martyrs Families Affairs at the Presidential Court, and Chairman of Etihad Rail, who witnessed the signing of the agreement, said: "The collaboration underscores a commitment to the rail industry, showcasing the vision of Etihad Rail to provide world-class passenger experiences."

He added that "Etihad Rail play(s) a significant role in the UAE’s sustainable development".

Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC, said the agreement "underscores ADNOC's commitment to supporting sustainable transportation solutions and infrastructure development projects in the UAE.

"It also highlights ADNOC’s drive to explore opportunities to strengthen partnerships and implement solutions and technologies that accelerate efforts to reduce emissions, as we work towards our Net Zero by 2045 target."

The partnership is consistent with leadership directives to advance national capabilities and resources to support sustainable development in the UAE for the benefit of citizens and residents.

Etihad Rail continues to progress the development of its passenger services. In February 2022, it signed a green loan agreement with First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) for the financing of railway passenger services, with a total value of AED1.99 billion, and another agreement in June 2022 with Spain’s CAF company for designing, manufacturing, supplying, and maintaining passenger trains, valued at AED1.2 billion.