Etihad Rail and ADPIC Forge Coordinated Infrastructure Vision
Shadi Malak, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Rail, and Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of ADPIC, signed the agreement in the presence of H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Abu Dhabi's Department of Municipalities and Transport. The framework commits both organisations to coordinated studies, design planning, engineering strategy, and development road mapping for key rail infrastructure.
The MoU explicitly commits both bodies to jointly pinpoint integration opportunities between Etihad Rail's stations and broader infrastructure initiatives, ensuring alignment between rail expansion and Abu Dhabi's capital investment trajectories. It mandates structured knowledge exchange—spanning engineering assessments, master plans, and development strategies—to maintain cohesive project outcomes.
ADVERTISEMENT
Malak emphasised that the partnership represents a critical milestone as Etihad Rail advances its mandate to construct a world‑class railway network enhancing connectivity, sustainability, and livability for residents. He acknowledged the endorsement of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, underlining the capital's ambition to evolve into a globally competitive, efficient transport hub.
Maysarah Mahmoud Eid of ADPIC highlighted the MoU as a demonstration of the Centre's commitment to unified project governance, emphasising tighter budgetary controls, a focus on urban livability outcomes, and higher sustainability standards. She noted its potential to draw private‑sector investment, enabling innovation and resilience in public infrastructure.
A notable objective of the agreement is to encourage private‑sector engagement around railway assets. This encompasses joint research on urban planning best practices, infrastructure design optimisation, and expanded project management methodologies. Complementing these efforts are proposed capacity‑building initiatives, including technical training programmes, annual symposiums, and collaboration at regional infrastructure conferences.
The MoU supports Abu Dhabi's broader strategic agenda, aligning current rail infrastructure with the city's capital projects roadmap. The five‑year plan, which outlines municipal and transport development goals, forms the primary backbone for investment decisions in major infrastructure.
The wider context for the MoU lies in Etihad Rail's momentum: phase two, which links Ghuweifat to Fujairah, became operational in February 2023, expanding freight capacity and enabling key international trade routes. When the project is fully realised, the network will stretch over 1,200 km and include passenger rail options, using future‑ready signalling systems and mixed‑use tracks.
ADVERTISEMENT
Etihad Rail projects have already demonstrated environmental efficiency advantages. Stage One operations are estimated to reduce CO₂ emissions by 70–80 percent compared to equivalent truck transport, with forecasted annual reductions of over 2.2 million tonnes—equivalent to removing approximately 375,000 cars from the road.
ADIS 2025, the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit where the MoU was signed, serves as a high‑level platform for public‑private dialogue, innovation sharing, and policy alignment in the sector. It aims to reinforce collaboration across transport, energy, and urban development, reflecting UAE's long‑term infrastructure vision.
Industry observers and analysts comment that the MoU marks a strategic pivot for Abu Dhabi, moving away from siloed infrastructure development towards integrated delivery mechanisms that incorporate unitary governance, cross‑sectoral planning, and investment leverage. By synchronising Etihad Rail with municipal and national capital priorities, the MoU may serve as a template for future infrastructure platforms across the Gulf region.
A senior transport analyst in the region described this as 'a classic shift from project‑based construction to system‑based infrastructure governance, ensuring each development contributes to the cumulative vision,' noting that such synergy is 'key to unlocking sustainable, scalable growth.' The formalisation of such partnerships signals intent to avoid fragmented outcomes and ensure each project drives maximum utility, creating a more connected urban ecosystem.
Behind the scenes, both Etihad Rail and ADPIC have begun establishing internal joint‑working groups to detail implementation timelines, identify pilot projects—such as joint rail‑road corridor planning—and design knowledge‑transfer protocols. A statement from ADPIC indicates these steering committees will report back before the end of Q3 2025, with measurable KPIs tied to integration benchmarks and private‑sector participation targets.
As construction accelerates on Stage Three of Etihad Rail, which will link Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates, the MoU positions both agencies to manage interdependencies effectively. It may also set a precedent for replicating similar frameworks in other emirates, reinforcing national system coherence and laying the groundwork for emerging links like the Gulf Cooperation Council railway.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit 2025 sets new benchmark for urban development dialogue
The inaugural Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) 2025 concluded with strong momentum, drawing over 4,000 participants from more than 100 countries and witnessing the signing of 15 MoUs and strategic partnerships. Held under the theme ' Future Cities: Rethinking Infrastructure for Better Lifestyles,' the two-day summit showcased a comprehensive exploration of how innovative infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and cutting-edge technology are converging to create truly liveable, lovable, and economically vibrant urban environments. The last day of the summit opened with a welcome address from H.E. Eng. Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC), who positioned infrastructure as a strategic enabler of societal progress and identity. His address set the tone for a day focused on 'Lifestyle Development,' framing infrastructure not just as physical assets but as foundational to the values and future-readiness of cities. He also asserted the summit's role as a 'critical connection for global thought and action in infrastructure.' A panel titled 'Urban Excellence: Lessons from the World's Most Innovative Cities' explored how urban centres worldwide are integrating inclusive growth, sustainability, and cultural relevance. Speakers included Daniel Liu, Executive Director at MORROW Intelligence; Emre Arolat, Founding Partner and Principal at Emre Arolat Architecture; Asma Aljassmi, Executive Director of Projects Control and Operations at Aldar Projects; and Greg Bargull, Executive Director of Development at Modon. Key takeaways highlighted the need for human-centric urban frameworks, the importance of design in reflecting local identity, and the critical role of public-private partnerships in shaping liveable urban environments. Paul O'Brien, Chief Development Officer at Modon, led a fireside chat on the evolving role of nature in urban design. He discussed how Modon is embedding sustainability at scale across its projects, leveraging natural systems and technology to enhance efficiency and long-term value. O'Brien also noted the company's role in exporting these practices beyond the UAE, demonstrating the viability of sustainable urban models globally. He further emphasised Modon's pioneering position, affirming that the company is actively exporting its innovative approach to urban development, thereby proving that cities function better when they work with, not against, natural and technological systems. The conversation continued with a panel discussion focused on how cities are developing adaptable ecosystems that integrate transportation, commercial activity, and social interaction. The panel emphasized a human-centric approach to urban development and the importance of making effective use of existing infrastructure. Speakers included Omran Malek (Head of the SAVI Cluster, Abu Dhabi Investment Office – ADIO), Dr. Talib Alhinai (General Manager – UAE, Archer Aviation), Salam Ilayyan (Advisor, Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre – ADPIC), and Prashant Kapila (Board Member, International Federation of Consulting Engineers – FIDIC). 'Every citizen expects public spaces to be functional, open, human-accessible, safe, and climate-resilient, with integrated technology and sustainability features,' said Salam Ilayyan highlighting the key considerations for public spaces. Building on this, Omran Malek detailed Abu Dhabi's cutting-edge approach to smart mobility, noting, 'We are looking at how existing infrastructure, like helipads and parking lots, can be leveraged for multi-modal transport, making the most of every space.' Complementing this vision, Dr. Talib Alhinai from Archer Aviation presented a future for urban air mobility, explaining, 'Archer's mission is to replace 60 to 90-minute car drives with 10 to 20-minute electric air taxi flights, widening access to efficient urban mobility.' A session on luxury real estate featured insights from industry leaders such as Michael Belton, Chief Executive Officer, MERED; Kristina Zanic, CEO and Founder, Kristina Zanic Consultants; David Harman, Chief Development Officer, Modon Real Estate; Mulham G. Kheriba, CDO, Reportage; and Kourosh Salehi, Partner & Global Design Principal, LWK + Partners. The discussion centred on how luxury development is shifting toward wellness, sustainability, and deeper brand immersion. Panelists emphasised operational efficiency, environmental integration, and user experience as new cornerstones of premium living. In the last fireside chat for the day, H.E. Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Financial Affairs Executive Director, Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC), and Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi discussed the growth of the wellness sector and its integration into urban development. Both speakers outlined how Abu Dhabi is embedding healthcare and wellness into its infrastructure strategy, combining advanced technology with cultural context to build a comprehensive, future-ready urban health ecosystem. 'Abu Dhabi's unique approach to wellness blends its heritage and cultural traditions with advanced technology, creating a distinct and comprehensive experience,' said H.E. Mohammed Al Suwaidi. Georges-Pascal Haber further underscored Abu Dhabi's growing prominence, stating, 'Abu Dhabi has become a centre of gravity for healthcare and wellness, attracting top talent through its unparalleled infrastructure and environment.' Across both days, ADIS 2025 provided a focused platform for international dialogue on building sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced cities. With over 70 speakers and participation from a diverse range of sectors, the summit demonstrated Abu Dhabi's strategic plan to lead infrastructure innovation in the region and beyond. As cities globally contend with rapid urbanisation, climate change, and shifting economic priorities, ADIS 2025 has positioned itself as a significant venue for shaping the next generation of urban development policy and practice.
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Arabian Business
Etihad Rail CEO meets Kuwait minister to discuss GCC railway cooperation
A delegation from Etihad Rail, headed by CEO Shadi Malak, met with Dr. Noura Mohammed Khaled Al-Mishaan, Minister of Public Works of the State of Kuwait, to discuss joint cooperation and expertise exchange in railway infrastructure development across GCC countries. During the meeting, Minister Dr. Al-Mishaan outlined Kuwait's commitment to learning from railway development experiences in the region, citing the UAE-Oman partnership in establishing Hafeet Rail as a reference point. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Etihad Rail (@etihad_rail) The minister emphasised that collaboration in the railway sector demonstrates Kuwait's support for Gulf integration and economic connectivity between GCC states. She stressed the need for continued coordination between technical teams to deliver projects that meet regional development requirements. Eid Al Rashidi, Under-Secretary of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Public Works, highlighted the ministry's focus on utilising regional experiences, stating that early collaboration during planning and execution phases is crucial for building a rail network that supports regional integration and development objectives. The meeting featured a technical presentation detailing Kuwait's railway project plans. Minister Dr. Al-Mishaan outlined the ministry's vision to establish a national railway network based on regional and international practices, incorporating environmental and economic considerations that align with Kuwait's sustainable development goals. The discussions between Etihad Rail and Kuwait's Ministry of Public Works represent part of broader efforts to enhance transport connectivity across the Gulf region through coordinated railway infrastructure development.
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Khaleej Times
Transit-driven growth: Blue Line and Etihad Rail reshape UAE's real estate market
In the UAE, infrastructure doesn't just support progress, but it drives it. From record-breaking towers to artificial islands, the Emirates have long embraced bold development as a strategy for transformation. The country is on the cusp of a real estate revolution, and it's being led by steel and speed. The massive rollout of the Dubai Metro Blue Line and the Etihad Rail project is not just transforming transportation; it's reshaping the very foundations of the country's property markets. From the glistening towers of Dubai to the cultural corridors of Abu Dhabi and the pristine coastlines of Ras Al Khaimah, connectivity is fast becoming the new currency of growth. With sweeping ambitions, these high-capacity transport networks are set to enhance connectivity, decentralise urban living, and unlock new corridors for residential, commercial, and industrial growth. The result? A ripple effect that is already being felt in rental prices, land valuations, and investment interest. Analysts believe that the twin expansions of the Metro and Etihad Rail will benefit the UAE's tourism, entertainment, and logistics industries. Enhanced infrastructure not only improves daily commutes but also plays a key role in attracting international visitors and facilitating the flow of goods and services. This integrated connectivity is expected to fuel demand for hotel apartments, warehousing facilities, and industrial zones, particularly near key rail stations. In the long run, such large-scale mobility solutions are viewed as essential pillars in the country's strategy to diversify its economy, reduce its environmental footprint, and position itself as a future-forward destination for business, living, and investment. Blue Line Metro: A catalyst for urban expansion When Dubai's Metro first opened in 2009, at the exact 9th second of the 9th minute, on 9/9, it symbolised a new era for urban mobility. Today, the Metro carries over 2.5 billion passengers and stands as one of the world's most efficient automated rail systems. With the newly unveiled Blue Line, Dubai's rail network will expand to a total of 131km with a new stretch of 30km comprising of 78 stations and 168 trains. The project is set for completion by September 2029, builds on this legacy but with an even broader scope. Connecting nine key districts, including Academic City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Ras Al Khor, and Silicon Oasis, the Blue Line will serve over one million residents as part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Since its announcement in November 2023, the impact has been immediate and measurable. Industry experts note that the expansion of Dubai's metro system — most notably the upcoming Blue Line — is reshaping the city's residential landscape. Areas previously reliant on private transportation, particularly gated communities and outer developments, are now being integrated into the public transit network. This shift is expected to significantly boost property values and rental yields in these newly connected districts. In fact, past trends have shown that neighborhoods with metro access can experience up to 40% appreciation in property prices and a notable uptick in rental demand. With the metro now extending to areas like Damac Hills, The Villa Project, and Maritime City, developers anticipate a wave of renewed interest from both residents and investors seeking convenience and connectivity. 'This shift isn't just about transport—it signals a new investment era. By unlocking fresh value through infrastructure, the Northern Emirates confidently steps into a brighter real estate future,' says Salik Zahoor, Founder of Eplog Properties. Rents in the affected areas have jumped an average of 23%, with Academic City leading at 43%, according to data from Betterhomes and Property Monitor. Analysts expect this momentum to continue, with a further 30% growth anticipated before the line's completion. 'Improved rail and transit connectivity will certainly play a role in reshaping real estate dynamics across the Northern Emirates over time,' says Pratyusha Gurrapu, Head of Strategic Consulting at Cushman & Wakefield Core. 'While the Dubai market remains the regional anchor, improved integration with Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman has the potential to redistribute both residential and commercial demand as commuting patterns shift. We would expect better infrastructure to support suburban growth, workforce housing demand, and greater integration of regional economic clusters.' But the Blue Line is more than a commuter convenience, it's an architectural and symbolic marvel. The world's highest metro station, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (the minds behind the Burj Khalifa), features futuristic aesthetics, EV charging stations, lush green surroundings, and layered platforms, all evoking Dubai's vision of a transit-oriented future. Etihad Rail: A national engine for growth While the Blue Line focuses on urban mobility within Dubai, Etihad Rail expands the canvas to a national scale. Spanning 1,200km from the border of Saudi Arabia to Oman, the network is one of the most anticipated infrastructure projects in the region. By 2030, it will serve over 36.5 million passengers annually, transforming intercity travel and logistics. Beyond Dubai, the national Etihad Rail project is emerging as a powerful growth engine for the wider UAE property market. By linking all seven emirates and providing a direct connection between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah, the rail network is expected to open up a wealth of opportunities for real estate development in less saturated markets. Improved inter-emirate accessibility will make it easier for residents to live farther from urban cores while staying connected to employment hubs, cultural centres, and retail destinations. As a result, areas along the rail corridor are poised for increased demand in both residential and commercial sectors, with a growing focus on mid-income and workforce housing. More than just a transport corridor, Etihad Rail is expected to contribute Dh145 billion to UAE's GDP over 50 years, catalysing growth in logistics, trade, tourism, and — critically — real estate. 'The Northern Emirates are quietly transforming—driven by rail expansion. Etihad Rail's entry into Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah brings new life into real estate markets once seen as secondary. Investors, now, are paying close attention,' says Zahoor. The potential is clearest in previously underutilised areas that now sit along the new rail line. With improved accessibility, these regions are witnessing a surge in development planning, with new residential complexes, business hubs, and service facilities already in the pipeline. 'The timing and scale of real estate uplift will depend heavily on how quickly transportation infrastructure is delivered and how effectively it is integrated with urban planning, zoning, and job creation in those markets. In our view, transit investment is an important enabler, but long-term real estate growth will ultimately be driven by a combination of infrastructure, regulatory policy, and sustained economic diversification. The developers are starting to reimagine land use strategies in regions that were once considered too remote,' says Gurrapu. 'The rail is effectively reclassifying land value across the UAE.' Commuting times are expected to drop by up to 40%, offering residents the flexibility to live further from dense city centers without sacrificing access to economic opportunities. This is particularly significant for mid-income and workforce housing, a segment of increasing strategic importance. Investor sentiment and strategic shifts I nstitutional investors and developers are already shifting their strategies. The focus is no longer limited to central business districts but extends to transit-linked clusters where infrastructure is unlocking fresh value. In reply to a question Zahoor told BTR that in Ajman, buyers have already pushed property prices up by 5–7% near the upcoming Sharjah University station. They recognise the area's affordability and future connectivity and are moving quickly to secure deals before the rail becomes operational.' 'In Ras Al Khaimah, the rail line's emphasis on freight and logistics has accelerated interest in Al Dhaid,' he added. With both projects advancing in parallel, the UAE's real estate landscape is undergoing a multi-layered transformation. The dual force of urban and intercity rail is blurring traditional boundaries, allowing cities to expand organically while still remaining interconnected. Zahoor further said that developers are actively targeting the area for logistics hubs and staff housing, and landowners expect values to rise 10–15% in the near future. Furthermore, the alignment of zoning regulations, job creation initiatives, and urban planning with these infrastructure projects will be essential. Gurrapu notes that, 'At Cushman & Wakefield Core, we're already seeing this conversation start to influence how institutional investors, developers, and government stakeholders evaluate land use planning, master developments, and infrastructure-led real estate opportunities across the broader UAE.' A new era of infrastructure-led development To a question about growth in other emirates Zahoor said, 'Fujairah and Al Ain are also gaining traction as commuter-friendly cities. With direct rail links to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, these locations now an appeal to buyers who value space, lifestyle, and long-term investment potential. Developers are already planning mixed-use projects around the proposed stations.' As the UAE navigates its post-oil economy transition, infrastructure-led development is becoming a hallmark of its growth model. The Blue Line and Etihad Rail are more than transport projects — they are strategic tools for population distribution, economic diversification, and spatial equity. They promise to support suburban growth, reduce congestion, lower environmental footprints, and connect talent to opportunity, all while enhancing the desirability of real estate portfolios across the Emirates. In the coming years, as these networks come to life, their tracks may well lead not just to destinations, but to the next chapter of UAE's urban and real estate evolution. A Game-changer Initiative Experts and industry leaders agree: these infrastructure megaprojects are a 'game-changer,' with far-reaching implications for residential, commercial, and industrial real estate. As cranes rise and tracks are laid, the UAE is building more than just a rail network — it's engineering a new way of living, investing, and thriving. The Dubai Metro Blue Line and Etihad Rail are not just infrastructure projects; they are strategic blueprints for the country's future, weaving connectivity into the fabric of real estate development. From overlooked districts gaining new life to investors scouting emerging transit corridors, the transformation is already underway. These tracks will not only carry passengers, but also dreams, ambitions, and the promise of inclusive growth. In a nation where innovation sets the pace, the next real estate boom won't be driven solely by luxury towers or prime waterfronts — it will be fuelled by access, mobility, and the bold vision of a connected UAE. Key Impact Zones of the Blue Line and Etihad Rail Etihad Rail Network > Total Length: 1,200km, connecting all 7 Emirates > Commuter Time Reduction: Up to 40% > Annual Passenger Capacity (by 2030): 36.5 million > GDP Impact: Expected contribution of Dh145 billion over 50 years Dubai Metro Blue Line > Academic City: Rents up by 43% > Silicon Oasis, Al Warqa, and Dubai Creek Harbour: Up by 28–30% > Projected Future Increase: Another 30% hike expected before 2029 > Total Reach: Will serve 1 million+ residents across 9 key districts > Station Highlight: World's highest metro station designed by SOM (Burj Khalifa architects) Hotspots > Ajman: 5–7% price hike near Sharjah University Station > Al Dhaid (RAK): Gaining investor interest in logistics > Fujairah & Al Ain: Rising demand for mixed-use and commuter housing ALSO READ:
