Hafeet Rail signs deal with Progress Rail for fleet of advanced freight locomotives

Hafeet Rail has secured a significant contract with Progress Rail, a leading provider of rail solutions, to supply a modern fleet of freight locomotives, marking a pivotal development in the region’s rapidly growing rail infrastructure. This deal is a strategic move in bolstering the operational capacity of Hafeet Rail as it looks to become a central player in the UAE’s logistics and freight industry.

The rail network, part of the broader Oman-Etihad Rail initiative, is crucial to the UAE’s long-term goal of establishing an integrated transport and trade system across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The contract with Progress Rail will deliver a highly efficient and environmentally sustainable fleet, as the company’s locomotives are renowned for their innovative engineering, fuel efficiency, and low emissions, aligning with the UAE’s commitment to green technology.

This agreement is expected to enhance Hafeet Rail’s ability to facilitate cross-border trade between Oman and the UAE, connecting key ports and industrial zones. It is a core component of the larger Gulf railway network, which aims to streamline the movement of goods and improve regional connectivity by linking key economic hubs across the region. The acquisition of this modern fleet of locomotives will enable the network to handle greater cargo volumes and meet the rising demands for freight transport driven by the growing industrial and trade sectors.

Progress Rail, a subsidiary of Caterpillar, will provide cutting-edge locomotives equipped with advanced technologies that ensure operational efficiency and safety. The locomotives are engineered to operate in harsh desert climates, withstanding extreme temperatures and providing reliable service over long distances. This technical robustness is essential for the expansive rail system, which traverses challenging terrains across the UAE and Oman.

The rail network is designed to serve both freight and passenger services. However, the primary focus of this initial phase is freight transport, which is expected to reduce road congestion and lower the overall carbon footprint of logistics in the region. Additionally, the partnership with Progress Rail strengthens Hafeet Rail’s position in the competitive freight logistics market, where the demand for high-capacity, reliable transportation options is steadily increasing.

This development also highlights the ongoing collaboration between the UAE and Oman to foster economic growth through infrastructure projects. The railway project plays a vital role in enhancing trade routes, connecting ports, and creating a more efficient supply chain that benefits both countries. The broader Oman-Etihad Rail network aims to integrate transport networks across the GCC, enhancing regional trade and boosting the economic prospects of participating nations.

As part of this project, Siemens Mobility has also played a key role in the design and implementation of the railway’s infrastructure. A consortium led by Siemens was awarded the signaling contract for the network, further cementing the project's technological and operational foundation. With the addition of Progress Rail’s modern locomotives, Hafeet Rail is well-positioned to provide a comprehensive and efficient rail service that meets international standards of freight transportation.

The fleet of locomotives is expected to significantly cut down on logistics costs and improve the speed and reliability of freight deliveries between Oman and the UAE. This strategic partnership is seen as a major step forward in achieving the ambitious vision set out by the governments of both countries, aiming to create a world-class logistics hub that links the Gulf region with international markets.