The Oman Rail Connectivity Project—known as the Hafeet Rail—marks a major step forward in linking Oman and the UAE through modern, sustainable transport infrastructure. Extending 238 km from Sohar Port in Oman to Abu Dhabi, the line connects with the UAE National Rail Network, enhancing the flow of goods, people, and investment between the two nations.
Accelerating Trade and Sustainable Transport
The Hafeet Rail project represents one of the most ambitious infrastructure collaborations in the Gulf region. It will enable passenger trains to reach speeds up to 200 km/h, cutting travel time between Sohar and Abu Dhabi to about 100 minutes, and between Sohar and Al Ain to just 47 minutes. This faster connectivity transforms regional travel and offers businesses a highly efficient logistics alternative.
As of October 2025, the project is nearing completion and is set to redefine cross-border trade and logistics efficiency. By offering a predictable, fixed timetable for both freight and passenger movement, the system ensures more reliable delivery schedules, directly supporting supply chain optimization for industrial and commercial operators in both countries.
Beyond speed and convenience, the Hafeet Rail will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by shifting freight transport from road and sea to rail. This transition lowers the overall carbon footprint of logistics, aligning with Oman and the UAE’s sustainability objectives and broader regional decarbonization targets.
Another major benefit lies in road safety and congestion reduction. Heavy truck traffic will be diverted from highways, easing road wear and improving safety while ensuring smoother logistics across key economic and industrial zones.
The project’s long-term benefits extend well beyond transport. It promotes regional cooperation, job creation, and talent development—building skills in railway operations, maintenance, and digital logistics systems. With future plans to integrate clean energy sources, the network aims to further reduce environmental impacts, demonstrating the Gulf’s growing commitment to green infrastructure.
Ultimately, the Oman Rail Connectivity Project is more than a transport initiative—it’s a cornerstone for Gulf economic integration. It connects industrial hubs, strengthens trade routes, and positions Oman and the UAE as key players in the evolving regional logistics network.
Read also: Oman Green Hydrogen Projects: Duqm and Dhofar Lead the Clean-Energy Shift
