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.

His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the launch of the Dubai Metro Gold Line, a major new infrastructure project set to expand the emirate’s transport network.

The 24-kilometre line, with an estimated cost of Dh 34 billion, will pass through 15 key strategic areas, serving around 1.5 million residents and connecting to 55 major real estate developments currently under construction.

Key route and connectivity

The new line will run from Al Ghubaiba in the north to Jumeirah Golf Estates, linking historic and emerging parts of the city.

• Total stations: 18
• Fully underground line
• Intersections with existing Red and Green Metro Lines
• Integration with Etihad Rail passenger stations in Meydan and Jumeirah Golf Estates

Boost to metro network

The Gold Line will increase the Dubai Metro’s overall length by 25%, significantly improving connectivity across the city.

The project is scheduled for completion on September 9, 2032.

Sheikh Mohammed said the project is part of Dubai’s ongoing ambition to become the world’s best city to live in, with continued investment in infrastructure and mobility.

The new line is expected to play a key role in reducing congestion, improving travel times, and supporting urban growth across Dubai.

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.