MUSCAT: Hafeet Rail, the developer and operator of the Oman–UAE Railway Network, has successfully received its first shipment of railway tracks at the General Cargo Terminal of Sohar Port and Freezone, operated by C. Steinweg Oman LLC. The consignment includes over 3,800 E260-grade tracks, each measuring 25 metres and collectively weighing 5,700 metric tons. Manufactured at ArcelorMittal’s facility in Gijón, Spain, the rails adhere to the highest international standards, ensuring suitability for both heavy freight and passenger transport operations. This initial delivery marks the beginning of a larger series, with a total of 33,100 metric tons scheduled for future shipments.
The tracks are engineered for durability and designed to handle axle loads of up to 32.4 tonnes, providing long-term reliability under the region’s geographical and environmental conditions. Advanced fastening systems, incorporating high-strength clips and bolts, enhance stability and safety for trains operating on both freight and passenger lines. This meticulous design reflects the project’s commitment to establishing a resilient and efficient rail network capable of meeting growing transportation demands across Oman and the UAE.
The arrival of the first shipment facilitates the commencement of the next phase of on-ground construction, including track-laying along the 238-kilometre corridor connecting Sohar Port with the UAE’s national railway network. Subsequent shipments are expected in the coming months to maintain steady progress in alignment with the project’s timeline. This phase represents a crucial step toward realizing the operational capabilities of the railway and integrating it seamlessly into regional transport infrastructure.
Once completed, the Oman–UAE Railway Network is expected to significantly enhance supply chain integration, boost transportation efficiency, and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries. Developed by Hafeet Rail in strategic partnership with Asyad Group, Etihad Rail, and Mubadala, the project is positioned as a cornerstone of regional connectivity, sustainable transport infrastructure, and long-term economic growth, highlighting Oman’s commitment to modernizing its transportation networks and fostering international trade and mobility.
