Presidential Adviser Says National Rail Project Boosts Economic Connectivity and UAE’s Logistics Role.
Dubai: Etihad Rail represents a major national project that will deepen economic and social connectivity across the UAE, broaden the country’s strategic options and strengthen its position as a leading regional logistics hub, Dr Anwar Mohammed Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, said.
Gargash made the remarks following President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s journey aboard Etihad Rail from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, saying that major strategic projects form a key pillar of the UAE’s ambitious economic and development vision.
The President travelled aboard the train alongside Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of Etihad Rail.
Commenting on the journey, Gargash said it highlighted the importance of major infrastructure projects in strengthening connections between people and supporting economic integration across the country.
He also noted that Etihad Rail would further reinforce the UAE’s role as a major logistics hub in the region while expanding the country’s strategic options.
“Success is built on vision and determination,” Gargash said, adding that Etihad Rail is a national project that connects the emirates, reduces distances and reflects the UAE’s ambition to move forward together towards the future.
His remarks come as the UAE officially launches its national passenger rail network and inaugurates Etihad Rail’s Dubai Station. Passenger services linking Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah are scheduled to begin on September 30.
The Dubai station will integrate the national railway with the emirate’s broader public transport network. A dedicated pedestrian bridge will provide direct access to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, making transfers between rail and Metro services easier for passengers.
Integration with Dubai’s Nol system will further improve connectivity, allowing passengers to book journeys across Etihad Rail and public transport using a single QR code.
Etihad Rail’s national network stretches approximately 900km, linking major ports, cities and economic centres across the UAE while supporting the movement of both passengers and freight.
