Oman-Emirates Rail Network: Hafeet Rail Partners With Progress Rail For New Freight Locomotives

Hafeet Rail, the firm responsible for the Oman-Emirates railway network, has entered into a partnership with Progress Rail, a subsidiary of Caterpillar, for the provision of 27 state-of-the-art SD70ACS freight locomotives.

These locomotives will be custom-designed to meet the unique geographical and climate characteristics of the region, adhering to the most stringent international norms for safety, security, sustainability, and environmental protection. This announcement was made during the Global Rail, Transport and Infrastructure Exhibition and Congress (Global Rail) 2024, marking a significant milestone in the development of the railway network.

The forthcoming locomotive fleet boasts numerous technological advancements, including robust engines capable of hauling diverse wagon types over approximately two-kilometer-long trains. These enhancements will ensure the smooth, secure, and efficient transit of goods, including bulk items, containers, petrochemicals, metal products, and other industrial materials, across the Oman-Emirati railway network. Furthermore, the locomotives will incorporate advanced filtration and carbon emission reduction technologies, aligning with Hafeet Rail's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Eng. Ahmed Al-Massawi Al-Hashemi, CEO of Hafeet Rail, highlighted the significance of this agreement, emphasizing the company's dedication to developing an advanced railway network with top-tier freight locomotives that adhere to global standards. Al-Hashemi also pointed out the alignment with the GCC railway network's standards to facilitate seamless goods transportation between Oman and the UAE, reflecting a commitment to enhancing regional trade and infrastructure.

"The agreement is in line with our goals of providing competitive services for transporting goods across the joint network to contribute to facilitating trade at the regional level, and opening new horizons in the infrastructure, transportation and logistics sectors in both countries, as well as diversifying the national economy and achieving sustainable development in them," Al Hashemi added, underlining the broader economic implications of this initiative.

John Newman, CEO of Progress Rail, expressed pride in being selected to collaborate with Hafeet Rail, recognizing the strategic, economic, and financial significance of the GCC countries, particularly the UAE. "This partnership comes within the framework of our ongoing efforts to strengthen relations and cooperation with our partners in the GCC countries and enhance our presence in the region by signing investment contracts that include providing products, advanced technology, expertise, competencies and operations," Newman stated, highlighting the strategic nature of this partnership.

The contract for the new locomotive fleet follows the awarding of main contracts and the commencement of preparatory works for the Oman-Emirati railway network, underscoring Hafeet Rail's determination to expedite the realization of the first railway link in the Arabian Gulf region.

This venture represents a partnership between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company, and is named after Jebel Hafeet, symbolizing the connection between Oman and the UAE. It embodies the leaderships' efforts from both nations to fortify historical ties, promote economic and commercial integration, and strengthen social and cultural bonds.