By:Logisticsmiddleeast

Etihad Rail, the UAE’s national railway network operator, successfully concluded the first edition of Global Rail. During the event, the company signed 10 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements with international railway, transport, and infrastructure companies.

These partnerships aim to drive innovation and support the development of the UAE’s rail and transport sector.

Global Rail 2024

Hosted in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, ADNEC Group, and dmg events, Global Rail 2024 was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail.

Themed Setting Transport Infrastructure and Global Connectivity in Motion, the event focused on shaping the future of transport and enhancing global connectivity.

The event featured two conferences: the Strategic Conference, which focused on policies to accelerate rail development and foster cross-sector collaboration, and the Technical Conference, where industry leaders presented cutting-edge research in railway technology.

More than 150 international speakers participated in over 80 panel discussions, addressing key issues in financing, innovation, and integrated transport systems.

Key rail agreements

Presight AI: Etihad Rail partnered with this leading UAE-based AI firm to introduce generative AI solutions across its operations. This collaboration will drive Etihad Rail’s digital transformation, enhancing efficiency in areas like capital planning and logistics management.

RITES: A strategic MoU with the Indian transport giant to explore collaboration in railway development, including rolling stock supply, consultancy, and project management, further strengthening ties between the UAE and India.

Korea National Railway (KNR) and Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL): The MoU aims to exchange technical knowledge and implement joint efforts in railway construction, project management, and operations, drawing on the expertise of all three partners to enhance railway infrastructure.

Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ): This partnership promotes knowledge sharing in rail planning, construction, and technology, with a focus on high-speed rail and sustainable practices, reinforcing ties between Austria and the UAE.

L&T Technology Services (LTTS): This collaboration aims to establish a National Mobility Innovation Centre in Abu Dhabi and develop cutting-edge transportation solutions while fostering talent in rail and mobility.

IronLev: Exploring the potential of magnetic levitation technologies to boost speed and energy efficiency, this partnership could revolutionize the future of rail transport in the UAE.

Nevomo: The MoU with this European tech firm focuses on integrating autonomous rail solutions, particularly in logistics and freight operations, to enhance rail efficiency.

SBS Transit: Etihad Rail and the Singaporean transit operator will collaborate on leveraging AI and mobility solutions to support the UAE’s rail sector.

Hitachi Rail: This agreement will enhance communication systems and cybersecurity in Etihad Rail’s upcoming passenger stations. The partnership also explores Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) technology to streamline passenger journeys and contribute to the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 goals.