His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, have witnessed a signing ceremony to announce the connection between the UAE’s National Railway Network, Etihad Rail, mainline and a future passenger station in Sharjah.
The announcement of the connection aligns with Etihad Rail’s efforts to develop its passenger rail services, linking cities and residential areas in the country with a safe, reliable and efficient network.
The agreement was signed by His Excellency Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, and Naji AlHarthi, Chairman of Tristar Engineering & Construction, where several senior officials from both sides were in attendance.
His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail said, "The company has continuously demonstrated and taken a proactive approach in the development and operation of the National Railway Network. This is further reinforced today through its efforts to develop the passenger rail and connect the network's mainline with the passenger station in the emirate of Sharjah. Not only will this enhance connectivity between residential communities in the UAE, but also facilitate passenger movement between stations across the network, particularly as Sharjah is strategically located to connect Dubai with other northern emirates and includes key centres and landmarks. Furthermore, this connection underscores Etihad Rail's commitment to achieving its vision of strengthening the country’s the transport and infrastructure sectors, in line with the directives of the wise leadership, and solidifies its leading position achieved through its national project.”
The connection between the mainline of the railway network with the passenger station in Sharjah is expected to boost passenger flow, notably among university students from across the emirates. As such, this will result in an estimated 14,000 passengers per day travelling aboard the Etihad Rail train during weekdays.
The passenger station will be located near University City of Sharjah, providing easy access to key facilities, landmarks, and residential areas within the emirate of Sharjah, seamless connectivity with other emirates and reduced travel distances between stations across the network.
Etihad Rail continues to progress in the development of its passenger services as part of the UAE National Railway Network, which extends 900km, adhering to the the highest international standards in the industry to ensure competitive future passenger transport services. The passenger rail services will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, spanning from Al Sila to Fujairah, including Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
