Etihad Rail and ADPIC Sign Strategic MoU to Advance Abu Dhabi’s Infrastructure Vision
In a significant move to align infrastructure development with Abu Dhabi’s strategic growth objectives, Etihad Rail, the UAE’s national railway network developer and operator, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Center (ADPIC). The agreement, formalized during the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) 2025, aims to promote integrated planning, strategic project alignment, and innovation across key infrastructure sectors.
The signing was witnessed by H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport. The MoU was signed by H.E. Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, and H.E. Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of ADPIC.
Strengthening National Infrastructure Through Strategic Collaboration
The MoU establishes a collaborative framework to enhance:
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Integrated planning and execution of infrastructure projects
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Knowledge exchange in engineering, design, and development strategy
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Alignment with Abu Dhabi’s five-year capital projects plan
“This collaboration with ADPIC marks a pivotal step in our mission to develop world-class railway infrastructure,” said H.E. Shadi Malak. “It reflects our shared ambition to deliver integrated, future-ready infrastructure that supports Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a globally competitive, connected, and sustainable capital.”
He emphasized the support of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, underlining the alignment of Etihad Rail’s vision with national development goals and sustainable transportation innovation.
ADPIC: Enhancing Capital Project Delivery and Sustainability
Speaking on behalf of ADPIC, H.E. Maysarah Mahmoud Eid commented:
“Our partnership with Etihad Rail reflects ADPIC’s commitment to optimizing infrastructure governance and capital project delivery. This initiative will enhance budget efficiency, boost liveability outcomes, and advance Abu Dhabi’s sustainability and economic diversification goals.”
The collaboration promotes private sector participation and seeks to integrate rail infrastructure within broader urban and regional development plans, ensuring projects support the UAE’s long-term economic vision.
Key Areas of Focus
Under the terms of the MoU, Etihad Rail and ADPIC will:
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Jointly identify opportunities to integrate infrastructure projects
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Foster private sector investment around Etihad Rail assets
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Launch joint research initiatives in urban planning and project management
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Establish joint training programs and annual knowledge-sharing sessions
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Participate in infrastructure-focused events, conferences, and forums
These efforts aim to build national capacity, strengthen innovation, and establish Abu Dhabi as a global hub for infrastructure excellence.
Supporting ADIS 2025’s Vision
The signing took place at ADIS 2025, which is poised to become the region’s premier platform for infrastructure innovation and collaboration. The summit brings together public and private stakeholders to explore trends, share best practices, and drive infrastructure progress across the UAE and beyond.
This MoU is a milestone in Abu Dhabi’s journey toward sustainable, resilient, and future-ready infrastructure, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to building smart, integrated cities supported by efficient transport and logistics systems.
