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Etihad Rail has honoured its strategic partners for their contributions to delivering the UAE’s national passenger rail service ahead of schedule, recognising the organisations and project teams that helped transform the country’s long-term railway vision into reality.

The recognition ceremony celebrated the collective efforts of local and international partners whose expertise enabled the development of a modern, integrated, and reliable passenger rail network in less than five years.

Partners Recognised for Their Contributions

During the ceremony, H.E. Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, presented awards to several key project partners, including:

• National Projects Construction (NPC)
• National Infrastructure Construction Company (NICC)
• Jacobs
• Dorsch Holding GmbH
• Unique Options N Interior Designs
• Certifier S.A
• Members of the Etihad Rail Projects Team

The awards recognised their roles in the planning, construction, engineering, and successful delivery of the UAE’s passenger rail network.

Supporting a World-Class Passenger Experience

Etihad Rail also highlighted the broader network of strategic partners responsible for operational systems, passenger services, and rolling stock.

Keolis, through its joint venture Etihad Rail Mobility, has partnered with Etihad Rail to establish the operational framework for the passenger service, implementing international best practices, operational procedures, and system integration to deliver a seamless customer experience.

Meanwhile, Hitachi Rail served as the project's master systems integrator, delivering advanced telecommunications, supervision, cybersecurity, ticketing, and payment systems that support safe and efficient railway operations.

Passenger trains have been supplied by CAF, the Spanish rolling stock manufacturer, and CRRC, one of China's largest rail equipment manufacturers. Their trains are designed to deliver high levels of passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and reliability while meeting the environmental requirements of the UAE.

A Milestone for National Infrastructure

Eng. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said the project reflects the UAE leadership's vision of developing infrastructure that supports long-term national growth, enhances connectivity, and promotes sustainable transportation.

He noted that completing the passenger rail network ahead of schedule demonstrates the value of collaboration, with every partner contributing to the creation of a railway that will connect communities, strengthen economic development, and serve future generations.

Regulatory Safety Approval Secured

Etihad Rail also confirmed that it has received the Safety Authorisation from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the mandatory regulatory approval required to commence passenger rail operations across the UAE.

The certification confirms that the railway's infrastructure, operational procedures, and safety systems fully comply with the country's railway safety and regulatory standards.

A New Era of Sustainable Mobility

Frédéric Van Heems, Chairman and CEO of Keolis Group, described the launch of the UAE's passenger rail service as a defining milestone for sustainable mobility in the region, highlighting the company's commitment to delivering a safe, reliable, and passenger-focused rail experience.

Christian Andi, Corporate Officer at Hitachi Ltd and Head of Signalling and Rail Solutions at Hitachi Rail, said the project represents a significant achievement in supporting the UAE's vision for a technologically advanced and sustainable transport network, built on innovation, safety, and long-term collaboration.

Passenger services officially entered their introductory operational phase between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on 30 June 2026. The service will expand in phases as part of Etihad Rail's long-term plan to connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, providing a safe, comfortable, and environmentally sustainable alternative for domestic travel.

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