Masdar And Etihad Rail Collaborate To Enhance Green Hydrogen Transport Solutions In The UAE

Masdar and Etihad Rail have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore transport solutions for the green hydrogen value chain in the UAE. This partnership aims to leverage Etihad Rail's expanding network to facilitate the movement of feedstocks and products like hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, and sustainable aviation fuel. The agreement was formalised during the Global Rail Transport and Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference in Abu Dhabi.

The collaboration between Masdar and Etihad Rail focuses on utilising rail infrastructure to support the green hydrogen value chain. By integrating rail transport, they aim to efficiently move green hydrogen and its derivatives across the nation. This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Low-Carbon Hydrogen Policy and the UAE’s National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, which seeks to position the country as a leader in low-emission hydrogen production by 2031.

Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, highlighted the importance of this partnership. He stated that it underscores rail's role as a backbone for sustainable logistics in the UAE. "Our network will provide the critical infrastructure to move green hydrogen and its derivatives at scale, supporting innovation, energy security, and long-term economic growth," he said.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, emphasised that this strategic partnership is crucial for delivering green hydrogen at an industrial scale. "Through collaborations like this, we can build the green hydrogen value chain, support the UAE and decarbonisation efforts, and drive sustainable socioeconomic growth," he noted. Masdar aims to be a leading global producer of green hydrogen by 2030 through investments in commercial projects worldwide.

The signing ceremony was attended by Shadi Malak from Etihad Rail and Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi from Masdar. The MoU was signed by Dr. Faye Al Hersh from Masdar and Adhraa Almansoori from Etihad Rail. This collaboration is expected to accelerate energy transition efforts while enhancing energy security in the region.

Future Prospects

Etihad Rail currently operates freight services across the UAE, connecting industrial zones with maritime ports. Passenger services are anticipated to commence in 2026. This collaboration supports the UAE’s goal of reducing emissions in challenging sectors such as transport, chemicals, fertilisers, and metals like aluminium and steel.

This partnership between Masdar and Etihad Rail represents a significant step towards achieving sustainable energy goals in the UAE. By focusing on green hydrogen transportation solutions, both companies are contributing to a cleaner future while supporting economic growth through innovative infrastructure development.

With inputs from WAM