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Keolis partners with Etihad Rail to run UAE’s first passenger trains from 2026

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Global public transport operator Keolis Group has officially teamed up with Etihad Rail to operate the UAE’s first national passenger rail network, with services set to launch in 2026.

The announcement was made at Global Rail 2025 in Abu Dhabi, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to build a modern, sustainable transport system.

A new chapter in UAE’s mobility

Under the partnership, the two companies will focus on delivering a world-class travel experience, introducing modern amenities on board while supporting the UAE’s climate and sustainability goals.

The joint venture will operate under the brand Etihad Rail Mobility, with Keolis holding a 50% stake and Etihad Rail owning the remainder.

“Keolis and Etihad Rail have signed a joint venture to run Etihad Rail Mobility, the passenger services for this region,” said Alistair Gordon, CEO of Keolis UK, Middle East and India.
“We’ve operated railways in Europe for many years, and when you connect cities with rail, you see economic benefits. People can travel easily for work, events, healthcare and education. Strong transport infrastructure always supports a country and its regions.”

Commuter services to start next year

Gordon revealed that the first phase of passenger services will begin next year, linking key cities and focusing on commuter traffic.

“We will launch the service sometime next year and grow it step by step. As we add more trains, drivers and staff, we’ll expand the network. We expect it to be very popular — especially as roads in the region, particularly around Dubai, are often busy,” he said.

Eye on a Gulf-wide network

Looking further ahead, Gordon pointed to plans for a high-speed rail network across the GCC.

“Etihad Rail is ambitious about building a railway that connects all the Gulf countries. I’m confident we will see significant expansion in the coming years,” he added.

Building modern, sustainable rail

The joint venture combines Etihad Rail’s infrastructure with Keolis’ international expertise in running passenger transport services in 13 countries.

Analysts estimate that the UAE rail network could carry over 36 million passengers a year by 2030, transforming regional mobility and strengthening the Emirates’ position as a hub for next-generation transport.

At a glance: Etihad Rail–Keolis partnership

  • Launch year: 2026
  • JV brand: Etihad Rail Mobility
  • Stake: Keolis (50%), Etihad Rail (50%)
  • Focus: Commuter services first, then expansion across UAE
  • Long-term vision: High-speed GCC-wide rail network
  • Passenger target: 36 million by 2030

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Business

Dubai’s unified car rental contract explained: What residents and tourists must know

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is reinforcing stricter rules for car rentals across the emirate, and it’s good news for both residents and tourists.

At the heart of this move is a mandatory unified contract that all rental companies must follow. This contract standardises how rental agreements work, clearly laying out the rights and responsibilities of both renters and rental offices in a transparent way.

“We have also organised a series of awareness workshops for companies operating in the car rental sector across the emirate to familiarise them with the contract’s provisions, obligations, and implementation procedures,” said Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency at RTA.

What this means for drivers

  • Same rules everywhere
    Whether you rent from a big brand or a small office, the same contract applies across Dubai, no more confusing or inconsistent terms.
  • Stronger consumer protection
    The contract ensures:
    • No hidden fees (like surprise toll charges)
    • No unfair charges during accident repairs
    • Mandatory refund of your security deposit within a set timeframe
  • Digital and secure process
    Rentals are handled through the Transport Activities Rental System (TARS), with:
    • Identity verification
    • OTP-based digital signatures
    • Secure, automated contracts
  • Proof of vehicle condition
    Photos are taken at pickup and return, protecting you from disputes over damage.
  • Better awareness for renters
    The system is designed to reduce complaints and help users, especially tourists, fully understand their rights before signing.

This move aligns with Dubai’s push to enhance trust and transparency in services, reinforcing its reputation as a well-regulated, customer-friendly destination.

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UAE denies claims of restrictions on investor funds, reaffirms open economy policy

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The UAE has firmly dismissed reports circulating on social media that suggest restrictions on investor funds, calling the claims inaccurate and misleading.

Officials clarified that there are no limits on the movement of capital or on foreign investors’ ability to manage and transfer their money. Authorities stressed that the country remains committed to maintaining an open, business-friendly environment aligned with international standards.

Commitment to investor confidence

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism reiterated that the UAE continues to support the free flow of capital, a key pillar in attracting global investment and ensuring long-term economic stability.

Officials emphasised that policies remain unchanged, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a reliable and transparent destination for businesses and investors.

Dubai reaffirms its position

In a statement shared on X, the Dubai Media Office also rejected the circulating claims, describing them as false. It highlighted that Dubai continues to stand as a leading global hub for business and investment, supported by a strong and resilient economy.

Call for accurate information

Authorities have urged the public and media outlets to rely on official sources when seeking information, warning against the spread of unverified claims online.

The clarification comes as the UAE contåinues to strengthen its position as a global financial and investment centre, built on openness, stability, and investor confidence.

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How UAE’s new banking plan will support businesses and individuals

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The Central Bank of the UAE has rolled out a new financial support package designed to keep banks strong and ensure they continue supporting and safeguarding the broader economy amid global and regional uncertainty.

The package was endorsed during a high-level board meeting chaired by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, underscoring the UAE leadership’s proactive approach to maintaining economic stability.

Built around five key pillars, the initiative is designed to provide banks with greater liquidity, enhanced flexibility, and temporary regulatory relief, ensuring they can continue to support businesses and individuals during uncertain times.

Under the new measures, banks will gain expanded access to liquidity, including the ability to utilise reserve balances and secure term funding in both dirhams and US dollars. This step is expected to keep credit flowing across key sectors of the economy.

The Central Bank has also introduced temporary easing of liquidity and funding requirements, giving financial institutions more room to continue lending. Capital buffer requirements will be relaxed as well, allowing banks to deploy excess capital to support economic activity.

Additionally, new provisions will offer greater flexibility in managing credit risk, including delaying the classification of certain loans affected by current market conditions—providing relief to borrowers facing temporary challenges.

Authorities emphasised that banks are expected to maintain lending and continue supporting customers as part of the UAE’s broader economic response strategy.

Despite global pressures, the UAE’s financial system has shown strong resilience. During its meeting, the Board confirmed that current market conditions have had no significant impact on the health of the banking sector or the efficiency of payment systems.

The Central Bank also highlighted the country’s robust financial position, with foreign exchange reserves exceeding AED 1 trillion and a strong monetary base. The UAE’s banking sector, valued at over AED 5.4 trillion, continues to demonstrate solid fundamentals.

With liquidity levels remaining high and reserves strong, the CBUAE reaffirmed its readiness to take further action if needed to protect financial stability and sustain economic growth.

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