ABU DHABI / SOHAR, October 2025 — A landmark agreement has been formally signed between the United Arab Emirates and Oman to establish the region’s first cross-border freight rail link, connecting Abu Dhabi and the Omani port city of Sohar. This initiative is poised to significantly enhance regional trade corridors, improve logistics efficiency, and promote sustainable transportation practices across the Arabian Peninsula.

The new rail corridor, operated by Noatum Logistics in conjunction with Hafeet Rail, is designed to handle substantial cargo volumes, with a projected capacity of up to 193,200 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually. Each of the seven weekly services will transport approximately 276 TEUs, facilitating the movement of key commodities such as consumer goods, food products, and pharmaceuticals.

This development is expected to yield considerable benefits for the rail sector and the broader economy. By reducing travel times and emissions compared to road transport, the link directly supports the sustainability goals of both nations and aligns with their economic diversification strategies. It offers a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for cargo movement, strengthening supply chains within the Gulf region.

The project directly links two of the region’s most strategic logistics hubs, Abu Dhabi and Sohar. According to Samir Chaturvedi, CEO of Noatum Logistics, this connection aims to provide cost-effective solutions while promoting cleaner supply chains. The rail link also complements existing infrastructure, such as Noatum’s rail shuttle between Khalifa Port and Fujairah Terminals, further integrating regional transport networks.

Ultimately, this UAE-Oman rail link represents a significant step towards sustainable economic integration and enhanced regional cooperation. It establishes a high-capacity trade artery that not only improves the sustainability of logistics operations but also reinforces the economic partnership between the two neighbouring countries, contributing to a more robust and interconnected Asian trade landscape.

Source: Railway Supply