Etihad Rail and Deutsche Bahn concluded, ahead of schedule, the knowledge transfer programme under their partnership that has begun in 2013 through a joint venture covering the exchange of knowledge in railway operations, operations control centres (OCCs), maintenance of rolling stock, and development of the operating rules and regulations, was integral for subsequent operations.
These areas of support and experience shared by Deutsche Bahn led to the achievement of critical milestones, enabling Etihad Rail to establish a vital national industry through the creation of the UAE’s first railway network.
Supplementary to knowledge transfer, Deutsche Bahn provided Etihad Rail with guidance on the health, safety, environment, and quality (HSEQ) requirements and the development of the operational safety case, which ultimately resulted in Etihad Rail DB’s accreditation as the UAE’s first heavy rail operator.
“We conclude our knowledge transfer programme with our partner of almost a decade, ahead of schedule and in line with international best practices. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Deutsche Bahn, who shared valuable knowledge and expertise, aiding us in our goals to become one of the leading entities in the railway industry globally,” Shadi Malak, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Rail, said.
The joint venture Etihad Rail DB has been responsible for the operations of Stage One of the UAE National Rail Network since 2016, building a reputation of the highest levels of quality, safety, punctuality, and customer satisfaction, bringing together major benefits for its customer, and the United Arab Emirates.
Since operations began for Stage One of the rail network, DB has supported Etihad Rail in transporting over 44 million tonnes of sulphur across 4,400 trains, whilst boasting an immaculate safety record of zero LTIs and delivering exceptional punctuality rates, to ensure a reliable service. Consequently, Etihad Rail has reduced over 370,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, and 2.68 million truck trips, supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative.
Etihad Rail DB has run 382 trains, and transported 3,685,000 tonnes of sulphur, with a punctuality rate of 98.4%, which reflects the high level of customer satisfaction achieved.
Stage One of the network covers a 264 km rail system that ensures the transport of granulated sulphur from sources at Shah and Habshan to the export point at Ruwais. Stage Two covers a 605 km rail system linking UAE and Saudi Arabia from Fujairah Port to Ghuweifat through Mussafah, Khalifa Port and Jebel Ali Port. 75% of construction work for the second phase of the network has been completed.
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