Preparatory Work for UAE to Oman Hafeet Rail Project Commences at Full Speed
Preparations have begun on the transformative UAE to Oman Hafeet Rail network, revealing significant construction details during a site visit.
3 min
The $3bn Hafeet Rail project between the UAE and Oman will feature 60 bridges and a 2.5km tunnel, making it an “architectural and engineering marvel,” according to CEO Ahmed Al Musawa Al Hashemi.
Hafeet Rail has announced that preparatory work is moving full speed ahead for constructing the transformative railway link between the UAE and Oman. This announcement was made during a site visit attended by key officials, members of the Asyad and Hafeet Rail executive management teams, project contractors, and consultants.
Key Highlights
During the visit, attendees were introduced to the main components of the project, including passenger, repair, and shipping stations, as well as major bridges and tunnel sites.
The Hafeet Rail project is set to play a very important role in enhancing local and regional trade, unlocking new opportunities in the infrastructure, transportation, and logistics sectors, and fostering economic diversification. It will also strengthen bilateral relations between the UAE and Oman.
The project will involve constructing 60 bridges, some reaching heights of up to 34 meters, and tunnels extending 2.5 kilometres. The Hafeet Rail team showcased the latest rail technologies and innovative engineering and architectural solutions designed to navigate the challenging geographical terrain and weather conditions while maintaining high standards of efficiency and safety.
The rail network will boost various industrial sectors and economic activities and significantly impact the tourism industry by facilitating easier and faster travel between the two countries.
Ahmed Al Bulushi, Asyad Group Chief Executive Asset, noted that the project’s rapid progress reflects the commitment of the UAE and Oman to developing and realizing the project’s multifaceted benefits.
Investment and Future Impact
Al Bulushi added that investments in developing local capabilities and expertise in rail-related disciplines over recent years have enabled the project to reach the implementation phase successfully under the leadership of highly efficient and professional national talent.
Hafeet Rail’s CEO Ahmed Al Musawa Al Hashemi emphasized, “The commencement of preparatory works for construction is a testament to the robust synergy between all parties involved in both nations, achieving this milestone in record time. We are confidently laying down the right tracks thanks to the shareholders of Hafeet Rail and the expertise of local companies in Oman and the UAE, alongside international partners.”
During the site visit, the visitors explored some of the key preparatory sites, including Wadi Al Jizi, where a 700-meter-long bridge towering 34 meters will be constructed. This ambitious project is envisioned as an architectural and engineering marvel in a complex geographical landscape.
Future phases will require more collaboration, with a continued focus on quality, safety, and environmental considerations in line with the international industry best practices.
The Hafeet Rail project represents the first-of-its-kind railway network linking two Gulf nations, marking a significant shift in regional goods transportation. This efficient and reliable transportation option will reduce dependence on slower and less sustainable road transport.
Hafeet Rail promises a 40% reduction in shipping costs and a 50% in transit times compared to traditional land transportation methods, as it will be connecting five major ports and several industrial and free zones in both countries.
This shift will reduce reliance on road transport by cars and trucks and promote more sustainable shipping practices. The establishment of the railway network will also create significant opportunities for SMEs in construction, engineering, and logistics support, acting as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation within the domestic economy.
By linking major ports, the Hafeet Rail project will enable local SMEs to import, export, and distribute their products more effectively, enhancing their market reach and global competitiveness.
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
Total income was higher by 10% year-on-year (YoY) at AED 300 million in the six-month period
2 min
United Arab Bank PJSC (UAB or “the Bank”) has announced its financial results for the six months ended 30th June 2024. UAB reported a net profit before tax of AED 152 million for H1 2024, a 26% increase compared to AED 121 million for H1 2023. The net profit after tax for H1 2024 stood at AED 139 million, up 15% from AED 121 million in the same period last year. Earnings per share rose to AED 0.07 in H1 2024 from AED 0.06 in H1 2023.
Total income increased by 10% year-on-year to AED 300 million for H1 2024, compared to AED 273 million for H1 2023, driven by a 26% increase in net interest income. The Bank’s capital position remains strong with a CET1 ratio of 13% and a total capital adequacy ratio (CAR) of 18%.
UAB‘s liquidity profile is robust, with advances to stable resources ratio of 75% and an eligible liquid asset ratio of 19%, both comfortably above regulatory thresholds. The Bank’s credit ratings were affirmed by Fitch and Moody’s at BBB+/Ba1, with stable and positive outlooks respectively.
UAB’s performance in the first half of 2024 demonstrates significant growth in total assets, increasing by 12% compared to December 2023, and reflects a strategic focus on quality and farsighted risk management. These results indicate that the Bank is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory.
Commenting on the Bank’s performance, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of United Arab Bank, said: “UAB’s strong performance in the first half of 2024 reflects the successful implementation of our growth strategy and reinforces our commitment to delivering sustainable value to our shareholders. We are confident that our prudent business model shall continue to deliver a solid performance and deal with the opportunities and challenges that will present themselves.”
He added: “As we move ahead into the second half of the year, we remain committed to enhancing our customers’ banking experience and contributing to the growth and prosperity of the UAE’s economy.
Shirish Bhide, Chief Executive Officer of United Arab Bank, commented: Our customer-centric approach and sustainable growth model has led to a 15% increase in net profit and a 12% growth in total assets. Our positive performance is a testament to the successful execution of our strategic priorities and clear evidence of the success of the many initiatives that have been implemented at the Bank. Going forward, we will continue investing in our growth strategy and digital capabilities, while equally focusing on developing innovative products and services that meet our customers aspirations whilst upholding the highest standards of compliance and internal controls.”
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
