A Closer Look is The National's new show where we take a more in-depth look at one of the main stories of the week.
The UAE and Oman will soon be linked by a rail network that will carry both freight and passengers in a major new deal.
Passenger trains that can reach speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour will connect Abu Dhabi with Sohar in the north of Muscat, the Oman News Agency (ONA) said this week. Freight trains will run at up to 120kph.
The announcement came after President Sheikh Mohamed arrived in Oman on Tuesday for a two-day state visit.
Here, Rory and Sarah discuss what this means for the residents of both countries.
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Etihad Rail connects major freight terminal in Abu Dhabi to main network
UAE and Oman sign deal to link countries by passenger train
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A rendering of a train to be used on the UAE’s new passenger rail service. All Photos: Etihad Rail -
Passenger cabins are spacious, allowing people to travel in comfort. -
The commercial benefits of moving cargo meant the initial focus was on freight. -
Now the focus has turned to the passenger network. -
The service will offer a reliable, safe, efficient, comfortable and environmentally friendly way to travel across the region. -
Etihad Rail is working closely with the Federal Transport Authority and transport authorities throughout the country to develop existing networks to improve passenger connections. -
Eventually, population centres across the UAE will be connected to neighbouring GCC countries. -
Passenger carriages will feature sleek, well-equipped cabins. -
Work on Etihad Rail began in 2009. -
Greenhouse gases will be slashed by more than 2.2 million tonnes a year once the network is fully operational. -
The new passenger rail service is expected to significantly reduce road congestion and the number of traffic accidents.
