Etihad Rail signs strategic agreement with RTA

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 19 February, 2015: Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has signed a significant strategic agreement with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The agreement will focus on cooperation in securing railway alignments, station locations and defining the contractual and operational responsibilities for both parties.

The agreement was signed by HE Nasser Ahmed Alsowaidi, Chairman of Etihad Rail and H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads and Transport Authority.

As part of the agreement, RTA will assign representatives to coordinate issuing Non-Objection Certificates (NOCs) of any road works required by Etihad Rail in line with the timeline and framework agreed by both parties.

Etihad Rail has committed to conducting technical studies and presenting the findings in the form of architectural reports and blueprints to the responsible governmental authorities in Dubai. Etihad Rail will also report on any modifications to the railway alignment or the surrounding areas, particularly on any operational issues. The organisation will also commit to defining the widths of the railway in a manner that guarantees maximum operational efficiency, and to cooperate with RTA on health and safety related matters under Dubai standards.

“We are delighted to cooperate with the RTA and sign this agreement which will assist Etihad Rail in develop the national rail network of the UAE on time,” said Nasser Alsowaidi, Chairman of Etihad Rail. “In the past five years, Etihad Rail has managed to lay well established foundations for its operations. Strengthening communication channels with other government entities will guarantee the efficient development of this important project, which will transform the transport industry across the UAE and drive our nation’s future growth.”

“Etihad Rail will constitute an essential part of the UAE’s future transport infrastructure, and this agreement marks an important step in realising this goal.” said Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA. “Etihad Rail will provide a safe and efficient means of transport that will increase the number of public transport users in the UAE, contributing to significant economic and social benefits, and we are glad to support this vital project.”

Upon completion, the Etihad Rail network will span approximately 1,200 kilometers across the UAE, transporting both freight and passengers. It will connect urban and peripheral communities, facilitate trade, open up communication channels and foster economic development across all Emirates in the UAE. The network will also form a vital part of the GCC Railway Network, linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia through Ghweifat in the west and Oman through Al Ain in the east.