The $2.5 billion railway project will slash travel time, boost tourism, and link key cities
The Hafeet Rail project, a joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company, has reached 40 per cent completion on the UAE–Oman rail connection.
Named after Jebel Hafeet, the project is shaping up to be one of the region’s most significant transport developments. Once finished, the 238km railway will directly link the UAE and Oman, improving movement between the two countries for both people and goods.
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So far, more than 27 million cubic metres of earthworks have been completed, alongside over 10 million safe working hours without any major injuries, highlighting both the scale of progress and strong focus on safety.
Construction is currently advancing across key locations including Al Ain, Al Buraimi, Sohar, and Wadi Al Jizzi, with each segment moving steadily forward.
What is Hafeet Rail?
Hafeet Rail is a powerful joint venture between Etihad Rail (UAE), Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company, aimed at creating a seamless transportation corridor between Al Ain in the UAE and Sohar Port in Oman.
With an investment of approximately $2.5 billion (960 million Omani rials), this ambitious project is the region’s first international rail connection, and a major milestone for the Gulf’s integrated logistics and mobility vision.
When complete, the railway is expected to boost trade flows, strengthen supply chain efficiency, and support deeper economic integration between the UAE and Oman.
Why does it matter?
The Hafeet Rail initiative supports long-term strategic goals to deepen economic, social, and cultural ties between the UAE and Oman.
The first phase focuses on connecting Sohar to the UAE’s national rail network, and it’s about much more than just moving people and goods.
Key objectives include establishing a smooth and secure cross-border transport link, creating a unified logistics hub for the region, and driving social and economic growth through better connectivity.
What’s in it for you?
Once complete, you will get the chance to experience a sleek, high-speed train and watching the desert give way to mountain valleys as you zip across borders in comfort and style. That’s what Hafeet Rail promises to deliver.
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Benefits
Faster journeys: Abu Dhabi to Sohar in just 1 hour 40 minutes (currently over three hours).
Sohar to Al Ain in 47 minutes (down from nearly 1.5 hours).
High-speed comfort: Trains will cruise at speeds of up to 200 km/h for passengers, offering a luxurious and efficient ride.
Seamless travel: Skip the queues at road border crossings. The railway offers a streamlined, visa-friendly alternative to driving.
New tourism possibilities: With easier access to destinations in both countries, weekend getaways, business trips, and cultural exchanges are about to get a whole lot simpler.
Scenic adventures: Journey through the UAE’s golden sands, Oman’s rugged mountains, and the iconic Jebel Hafeet; all from the comfort of your seat.
The Route
The rail line will span a total of 238 kilometers, linking major economic zones, ports, and cities across both nations.
The main artery, from Sohar Port to Abu Dhabi, via Al Ain, connects 12+ passenger stations and urban centers, five major seaports and 15+ integrated freight terminals.
When will it be ready?
As we know construction is already underway and 40 per cent complete. No exact time has been revealed for completion, even though the project is very much on track it seems.
Stay tuned for updates as this mega project steams ahead. Hafeet Rail is about to transform how we move across the Gulf.
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