Etihad Rail, the national railway company of the United Arab Emirates, is making significant strides in its 1,200km network expansion project by collaborating with Liebherr for state-of-the-art high-speed train HVAC systems.
Advancing Railway Infrastructure
Etihad Rail's $11bn railway infrastructure, completed in February 2023, spans from the Saudi border to Fujairah on the Indian Ocean coast. This extensive network is a pivotal component of the $100bn Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) rail programme, fostering connectivity among GCC countries.
Partnership with Liebherr
Liebherr Transportation Systems (China) Co., Ltd. has been appointed to supply and maintain HVAC units for three high-speed trains within the Etihad Rail network. These HVAC systems, engineered by Liebherr, are instrumental in ensuring passenger comfort amid the UAE's harsh climate conditions, with the capability to regulate saloon temperatures below 23°C, even at full passenger load.
Enhancing Passenger Experience
The high-speed trains operating on Etihad Rail's network connect 11 cities and locations across the UAE, facilitating seamless transportation for approximately 16mn passengers and 50mn tonnes of freight annually. These trains operate at speeds of up to 200km/h and boast a passenger capacity of 400 individuals per train.
Efficiency and Connectivity
The rail network features 593 bridges and crossings, along with nine tunnels spanning a total of 6.5km. By significantly reducing travel times between major UAE cities, such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, to just 50 minutes, Etihad Rail contributes to enhanced efficiency in commuting and promotes economic development across the region.
International Collaboration
With international contractors and suppliers playing a key role in the project's execution, Etihad Rail's expansion has been supported by financing partnerships, including a Dh1.99bn ($541.7mn) agreement with First Abu Dhabi Bank for passenger transport services development.
In conclusion, Etihad Rail's strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives underscore its commitment to revolutionizing rail transportation in the UAE, aligning with the country's vision for sustainable growth and connectivity.