ABU DHABI / SOHAR: A new rail freight service linking the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman has been announced, marking a major milestone in regional logistics and trade integration.
The announcement follows the signing of a preliminary agreement between Noatum Logistics, a subsidiary of AD Ports Group, and Hafeet Rail, the developer and operator of the first cross-border railway network connecting Oman and the UAE.
🔹 Daily Rail Service Between Sohar and Abu Dhabi
Under the agreement, Noatum Logistics will operate a daily container rail service along Hafeet Rail’s network between Sohar and Abu Dhabi.
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Frequency: 7 container trains per week
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Capacity: 276 TEUs per train
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Annual throughput: 193,200 TEUs
The trains will carry 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot containers, ensuring consistent capacity and reliability from the first day of operations.
The service will transport a diverse range of goods — including manufactured products, food items, pharmaceuticals, agrifoods, and general cargo — reflecting the strong trade flows between Oman and the UAE.
🔹 Agreement Signed at Global Rail 2025
The partnership was formalized during the Global Rail 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, highlighting both countries’ commitment to strengthening regional connectivity through modern transport infrastructure.
Samir Chaturvedi, CEO of Noatum Logistics, said:
“By linking two of the region’s most strategic hubs via rail for the first time, we are extending the reach of our service and enabling customers to benefit from a mode of transport that is cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable. This agreement reinforces regional supply chains and supports economic integration between the UAE and Oman.”
Ahmed Al Musawa Al Hashemi, CEO of Hafeet Rail, added:
“This agreement with Noatum Logistics marks a major milestone in developing the cross-border railway. With dedicated rail services, we enable efficient container transport between Oman and the UAE, strengthening trade and driving sustainable growth.”
🌱 A Sustainable Logistics Solution
The new rail service aligns with regional sustainability goals by offering a greener, more efficient alternative to road transport.
Compared to trucks, rail freight delivers:
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Lower carbon emissions per tonne
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Higher energy efficiency
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Reduced congestion on highways
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Improved reliability for high-volume shipments
By integrating the new route into its operations, Noatum Logistics expands on its existing rail shuttle network connecting Khalifa Port and Fujairah Terminals, launched in late 2024.
