Abu Dhabi Airports and Hafeet Rail Sign Agreement to Enhance Multi-Modal Connectivity at Al Ain International Airport

Aleqtsad. Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Airports and Hafeet Rail have signed an agreement to develop joint logistics and transport solutions linking air and rail networks, aimed at enhancing connectivity between the UAE and Oman. Anchored by a planned corridor connecting Al Ain International Airport (AAN) with the broader UAE and Oman’s Sohar, the project establishes a vital cross-border route for passengers and freight, positioning Al Ain as a critical hub in the region’s next generation of mobility and commerce.

Under the agreement, formalised at Global Rail 2025, the two parties will explore opportunities to link the upcoming UAE–Oman railway directly with Al Ain International Airport. This collaboration advances Abu Dhabi’s ambition to create a fully connected, world-class transport network, expanding passenger and freight modalities while reinforcing the emirate’s position as a regional leader in integrated mobility.

For Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ), the agreement carries particular significance for AAN, as the joint network developed by Hafeet Rail will connect the emirate with Oman’s Sohar, strengthening direct air–rail links. This seamless movement of goods will stimulate trade through ADAFZ, boost economic activity, and create high-value jobs.It will also boost the already growing trade and cultural exchanges between Al Ain and Sohar, strengthening the social and economic bonds that unite the two cities.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports said: “Al Ain Region is rapidly emerging as a strategic gateway in the UAE’s transport and economic landscape. Through our collaborationwith Hafeet Rail, we aim to create a seamless multi-modal hub that unlocks its transformation into a vital centre for regional trade, tourism, and industry. This agreement alignswith Abu Dhabi Airports’ broader commitment to advancing connectivity and enabling sustainable growth.”

Al Ain is attracting significant investment across key economic sectors, with new industrial zones, tourism projects and cross-border commerce reinforcing its role as a critical logistics hub and driver of long-term growth for the wider region.

Ahmed Al Musawa Al Hashemi, Chief Executive Officer, Hafeet Rail, said: “Hafeet Rail is committed to building the backbone of a truly integrated transport network for the region. Our collaboration with Abu Dhabi Airports reflects a shared vision where rail and aviation converge, driving innovation in logistics and mobility. Through this agreement, we are unlocking sustainable growth, fostering cross-border collaboration, and positioning the UAE and Oman as leaders in next-generation transport.”

The working group established under the agreement will shape the next phase of air–rail integration. This collaboration is a pivotal step toward a unified transport network that will strengthen trade links, expand multi-modality, and open innovative economic opportunities across the UAE, Oman, and the wider region.