Abu Dhabi: Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE’s Armed Forces to work together to protect the national rail network, a press release issued by Etihad Rail said on Saturday.
The UAE Armed Forces will secure protection for Etihad Rail’s facilities and vital installations that fall within the scope of the MoU including stations, terminals, yards and depots.
Etihad Rail will provide a link for five key military logistics centres operated by the UAE Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence.
The MoU was signed by acting CEO of Etihad Rail, Engineer Faris Saif Al Mazroui, and Major General Staff Pilot, Ishaq Al Beloushi on behalf of the UAE Armed Forces.
Etihad Rail is also finalising another MoU with the UAE Ministry of Interior to protect railway tracks of Etihad Rail’s national network. This reflects the company’s commitment to work closely with key stakeholders towards the completion of the UAE’s rail network.
Al Mazroui said: “This MoU is a major milestone for the UAE’s national rail project and will ensure the safety and security of our infrastructure. We pay tribute to all those involved in the signing of this MoU and the efforts of the UAE’s Armed Forces to provide protection for national facilities and ensure the security of our nation.”
Major General Al Beloushi said: “It is fantastic to see the progress of the Etihad Rail project and we recognise the benefits that this network will bring to our nation. It is our duty to protect and serve the nation’s rail system and today we have pledged our commitment to this.”
Once fully operational, Etihad Rail will cater to freight and passengers, spanning approximately 1,200 kilometres across the UAE. The rail network will connect urban and peripheral communities, facilitate trade, open up communication channels and foster economic development across all seven emirates. The network will also form a vital part of the GCC railway network, linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia via Al Ghuwaifat in the west and to Oman via Al Ain in the east.
Stage one of the rail project links Shah and Habshan to Ruwais. Stage two will connect the railway to Mussafah, Khalifa and Jebel Ali ports and the Saudi and Omani borders.
