Etihad Rail has completed more than 75 percent of Stage 2 of its network 28 months after the start of construction, thanks to the UAE government’s decision permit work to progress during the Covid pandemic, according to Shadi Malak, the CEO of the UAE’s national railway network.
Etihad Rail aims to link the UAE’s centres of trade, industry, and population, and will provide passenger and freight services.
Stage One of its network has been operational since 2016, while Stage Two is progressing at an accelerated pace.
“We are in a position to mould the industry, redefine business models and human behaviour. I truly believe the future of transport is in our hands. At Etihad Rail, we are committed to fostering the vision of our leadership, to play an integral role in sculpting the progression of the UAE for future generations,” Malak said.
The Etihad Rail CEO made these comments during the opening keynote speech at the Middle East Rail 2022, the region’s most important rail conference and exhibition, calling the UAE’s national network “a cornerstone of the UAE’s overarching government initiatives”.
Over the two-day event, Etihad Rail will outline the roadmap for transforming the transportation and logistics industries in the region.
The event brings together more than 600 VIPs, government officials, transport and infrastructure industry experts from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and attracts more than 6,000 attendees, 200 industry leading speakers , and more than 250 exhibitors from across the region and beyond.
The UAE National Rail Network aims to demonstrate its significant role in providing a modern and sustainable network, while bolstering the UAE’s position as a regional leader.
On Etihad Rail’s services, Shadi Malak said, “We want to utilise the approach of being customer centric, to benefit all potential end users. By introducing a cheaper, faster, more reliable, and sustainable service, rail will change public perception, on how we move our goods and ourselves.
“This provides rail the platform to place itself as the frontrunner, logistic, and mobility solution in the UAE. Etihad Rail will enable businesses to thrive and make different logistical decisions that uplift efficiencies and provides cheaper alternatives, for their business model.”
He concluded: “Our carefully planned solution for passenger travel provides an opportunity, where you can live in one emirate and work in another, without the pressures of driving long distances, paying for fuel, or leaving your family home in another emirate.”
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