New Rail Line Will Travel From the UAE to Oman

Construction has begun on the 303-kilometre Hafeet Rail project linking the United Arab Emirates and Oman. The cross-border line will connect Abu Dhabi and Al Ain with Oman’s Sohar Port through a network of tunnels, viaducts, and bridges.

Developed by Hafeet Rail Company—a joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company—the USD 3 billion project is designed to support both passenger and freight operations. Passenger trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, reducing travel time between Abu Dhabi and Sohar to around 100 minutes.

Initial work includes tunnel excavation in the Hajar Mountains, along with land clearing and infrastructure preparation across both countries. Once complete, the rail corridor will enhance connectivity between industrial and logistics zones, support trade growth, and form a key link in the planned GCC-wide railway network.