Etihad Rail – the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network – today announced the arrival at Mussafah Port of the first two of seven locomotives to be shipped to the UAE.
The locomotives arrived as construction on Stage One of the UAE’s national rail project is well underway. The two locomotives are the first rolling stock to arrive since the delivery of the company’s batch of wagons last December, together with which will form the UAE’s first trains.
The locomotives, which hold the train’s engines, will be moved to Etihad Rail’s site at Mirfa in the Western Region in preparation for the impending launch of Stage One, which will facilitate the transport of granulated sulphur from sources in Shah and Habshan to the port of Ruwais for export. Electro-Motive Diesel, a U.S.-based company and a world leader in the production of diesel-electric locomotives, designed and manufactured the locomotives for Etihad Rail.
Commenting on the arrival of the locomotives, Dr. Nasser Al Mansoori, CEO of Etihad Rail, said: “The arrival of these locomotives is a remarkable step forward and another indicator that we are fast approaching the commencement of operations for Stage One. The project is progressing on schedule and we are on track to see the first train run between Habshan and Ruwais by the end of this year. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and collaborative efforts of all parties working together towards the mutual goal of developing a national railway network that will change the face of transportation in the UAE and the wider GCC.” Mohamed Al Shamisi, Acting CEO, ADPC, and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Terminals (ADT) commented: “ADPC congratulates Etihad Rail on the delivery of their locomotives, which reflects the progress being made on the railway’s development. We look forward to working with the company to develop Abu Dhabi’s world-class infrastructure, integrating Abu Dhabi’s ports and rail network as part of Stage Two of the rail project.” “ADT successfully managed the arrival of Etihad Rail’s wagons, and we are proud to be playing a key role again with the delivery of the locomotives for the national railway network, supporting the development of the UAE’s strategic national infrastructure.” said Al Shamisi.
The SD70ACS locomotive is service-proven, having successfully operated in the most challenging operating conditions globally. Designed to withstand the region’s arduous climate and geography, the model features the latest technologies that reduce carbon emissions, aligned with Etihad Rail’s commitment to deliver a mode of transport that is efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly than alternative modes of transport. The exterior of the locomotives showcase Etihad Rail’s brand and incorporate the colours of the UAE’s flag as a symbol of national pride and unity. The unique design is dominated by grey with strikethrough wide red lines and the Etihad Rail logo in the centre.
Upon completion, the Etihad Rail network will extend approximately 1,200 km across the Emirates, catering to both freight and passengers. It will connect urban and remote communities, facilitate trade, open up communication channels and foster economic development. The network will also form a vital part of the GCC Railway Network – linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia via Ghweifat in the west and Oman via Al Ain in the east.
