The UAE-Oman railway project, officially known as Hafeet Rail, has reached 40 % completion, marking a major milestone in one of the region’s most ambitious transport initiatives.

Once operational, the cross-border rail line will connect Abu Dhabi with Sohar in just 1 hour and 40 minutes, while journeys from Al Ain to Sohar will take only 47 minutes.

First modern cross-border train in the region

Announced in 2023, the project is a joint venture between Oman Rail, Etihad Rail, and Mubadala.

Spanning 303km, the railway will be the first modern cross-border train in the Arab world, carrying both passengers and cargo between the UAE and Oman.

Route and speed

The line will run from the UAE’s existing rail network in Al Wathba to Sohar’s port, passing through varied terrain including deserts, valleys, and mountains alongside Jebel Hafeet.

• Train speed: up to 200 km/h
• Route length (main section): approx. 238km
• Travel time: significantly reduced between key cities

Major engineering works

The project includes:

• 2,500m of tunnels through mountainous terrain
• 21 overbridges and 39 underpasses
• Viaducts and bridges to ensure smooth, uninterrupted rail flow

These features will help maintain efficient travel across challenging landscapes.

Freight services between nations

Beyond passenger travel, Hafeet Rail is expected to create an integrated logistics network, strengthening trade and economic ties between the UAE and Oman. Freight locomotives will be used to power cargo services across the network, helping to strengthen regional logistics, trade flows, and supply chain efficiency between the two Gulf countries.

The project is valued at around $3 billion and is expected to play a major role in enhancing connectivity and economic integration across the region.

While construction is progressing across multiple locations, no official completion date has yet been announced.

Motorists in Abu Dhabi looking to clear those lingering traffic black points now have a convenient new option, thanks to an initiative by Abu Dhabi Police.

A dedicated pop-up service has been set up at Mushrif Mall, allowing drivers to review and reduce black points on their licences without the hassle of visiting a traffic department office.

When and where

The service is available:

• April 20 to May 20
• Daily from 4pm to 10pm
• First-floor police platform at Mushrif Mall

What drivers can do

Visitors can:

• Review their traffic records and black points
• Learn how points are calculated
• Get guidance on reducing points
• Explore options like traffic awareness courses (which can remove up to 8 points annually)
• Receive advice on licence reinstatement if suspended

Focus on safe driving

The initiative aims to make the black-points system more educational rather than punitive, encouraging better driving habits instead of simply penalising motorists.

Drivers nearing the 24-point threshold, which can lead to licence suspension, are especially encouraged to take advantage of the service.

By offering easy access to support and information, authorities hope to promote road safety, awareness, and responsible driving across Abu Dhabi.

Dubai is planning a major upgrade to its transport network with a proposed 55-kilometre Airport Express Metro Line connecting Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

According to reports, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has invited consultants to bid for a contract to study and design the new line, marking a significant step toward improving airport connectivity across the emirate.

Direct airport-to-airport link

The proposed Airport Express Line would run from the existing Red Line station at DXB, pass through key areas such as Al Jaddaf and Al Khail Road, and include a new station at Jumeirah Village Circle before reaching DWC in Jebel Ali.

• Total length: 55km
• Planned stations: 5 major stops
• Two additional branch lines connecting to Business Bay and other key districts

Airport-style facilities on the metro

Passengers could benefit from enhanced travel features, including:

• Remote airline check-in
• Baggage drop-off
• Security screening before reaching the airport

The aim is to create a seamless airport journey, reducing congestion and wait times at terminals.

Part of bigger transport plan

The project aligns with Dubai’s long-term expansion of the Dubai Metro, which is expected to grow to:

• 64 stations by 2030
• 140 stations by 2040

It also complements the upcoming Dubai Metro Blue Line, set for completion by 2029, improving connectivity across key residential and business hubs.

Dubai plans to gradually shift operations to DWC starting from 2032, with full expansion expected by around 2057.

Unlike traditional metro extensions, the Airport Express Line is designed as a direct link between two major aviation hubs, while also serving residential and commercial districts along the route.

If completed, it could significantly improve travel efficiency, connectivity, and passenger experience across Dubai.