EVERY MISSION IS POSSIBLE IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
ABU DHABI, 4th March, 2026 (WAM) – In response to current regional developments and the resulting disruption to travel, Etihad Rail, in coordination with and under the direct supervision of the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC), operated exceptional services between Al Ghuwaifat Station in the Al Dhafra region and Al Faya Station in Abu Dhabi.
These services enabled the safe and efficient transport of more than 350 passengers, prior to the official launch of the passenger rail service.
The operation supported a coordinated transfer process following the temporary suspension of certain flight services. It was carried out in cooperation with the competent authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, enhancing procedural integration and expediting implementation in line with the highest standards of safety and operational discipline. This formed part of a structured national response to evolving regional developments.
The service was delivered through a structured and carefully managed mechanism, with the immediate activation of approved safety protocols and emergency plans to ensure smooth and secure operations.
The necessary technical and human resources were allocated accordingly, maintaining continuity of performance without any disruption to freight services across the national railway network. Freight operations continued as scheduled and in line with the relevant official directives.
Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC), stated that this step demonstrates the ability of the national ecosystem to respond swiftly to regional developments. It reflects the strategic importance of the UAE’s national railway network and its high levels of efficiency, reliability and operational readiness under varying conditions.
He added: “The operation of the passenger service prior to its official launch demonstrates a high degree of institutional flexibility, based on the effective redeployment of available capabilities to address societal priorities, without compromising long-term operational plans or the UAE’s logistical security. It confirms the national ecosystem’s capacity to take timely and well-considered operational decisions, grounded in real-time risk assessments in light of current circumstances.”
Eng. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said “We are proud to operate these passenger services as an exceptional response to the current regional situation and in line with the directives of our leadership to strengthen national efforts aimed at ensuring the stability of nationals and residents in the UAE.
This step reflects the technical and operational readiness of the national railway network, the flexibility of its operating systems, and the competence of the national workforce, which delivered the services with a high degree of efficiency and adaptability, without affecting other logistical operations across the network. In our commitment to facilitating the movement of individuals, we have scheduled a number of additional services. Operations will continue as required, in close coordination with the competent authorities, until air traffic resumes and flights return to their regular schedules.”
The exceptional operation confirms that Abu Dhabi’s response framework functions through a proactive model grounded in institutional integration and the rapid activation of alternatives when required.
It demonstrates the UAE’s ability to manage the implications of current regional developments with efficiency and stability, while maintaining the continuity of vital services and reinforcing confidence in the resilience of national infrastructure and its preparedness across a range of scenarios.
EARLIER:
ABU DHABI, 3rd March, 2026 (WAM) – Etihad Rail, in an exceptional step, operated a passenger train as part of its trial runs on the route connecting Al Ghuwaifat station on the Saudi border and Al Faya station in Abu Dhabi. This measure supports the continuity of vital services and provides safe, reliable transport alternatives, guided by continuous risk assessment and evolving circumstances.
The move is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen preparedness and enhance response efficiency in light of the current regional situation, and in direct coordination with the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC).
The link between the two stations is strategically significant, as it enhances the geographical connection between the two countries and supports the smooth flow of movement to and from key ports. It facilitates mobility for both nationals and residents and enables the relevant authorities to activate alternative routes in line with approved response plans.
The operation of this route is part of a broader package of operational and proactive measures implemented in coordination between the Centre and the relevant authorities. These measures are designed to ensure the integration of roles and to strengthen logistical security, in line with business continuity plans and multi-scenario risk management frameworks.
Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director-General of ADCMC, emphasised that the development and readiness of transport options are a key component of the comprehensive response ecosystem. He noted that all developments are managed within clear governance frameworks and integrated coordination mechanisms across vital sectors, ensuring rapid adaptation and the efficient use of resources.
He added that the flexibility of the transport sector is vital to societal stability, as it is directly linked to the continuity of essential services. He affirmed that the Centre will continue to monitor developments and analyse relevant indicators around the clock to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s preparedness and reinforce public confidence in the effectiveness of the response ecosystem.
Eng. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said, “The operation of passenger services between Al Ghuwaifat and Al Faya as part of the trial demonstrates the readiness and flexibility of the UAE’s national railway network, which is designed to ensure the continuity of vital services in all circumstances. This initiative follows the directives of our wise leadership to strengthen the national transport ecosystem and enhance its strategic role in supporting society, under the ongoing guidance of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail.”
He added, “We are proud to support the joint response efforts led by the relevant authorities, providing safe, reliable, and well-organised transport solutions at a time when the continuity of the national transport ecosystem is crucial. Our teams continue to work closely with government partners to maintain sustainable operations and deliver dependable transport services, enhancing traffic flow and supporting the readiness of the national transport ecosystem.”
The operation of the route reflects a proactive institutional approach based on advance planning and the timely activation of alternative options when required. This strengthens infrastructure resilience and enhances the emirate’s ability to respond effectively to changing circumstances.
The operation of the route demonstrates that Abu Dhabi’s response framework goes beyond preventive measures and field coordination. It includes timely operational decisions that enhance service efficiency and ensure the smooth flow of movement in different circumstances.
This step illustrates how risk assessments are translated into practical solutions that support vital sectors. It also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s ability to manage developments effectively, maintain service continuity, and reinforce infrastructure readiness.
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