Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Rail Network, has partnered with Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale to introduce an exclusive luxury train experience that celebrates Emirati culture and heritage.
This opulent train will traverse the UAE, extending towards the Omani border, passing through breathtaking locations such as Mezeira’a, the scenic Liwa Desert, and its renowned oasis. Additionally, once the GCC Railway becomes operational, the luxury train will expand its reach across the wider GCC region. This collaboration marks Arsenale's second international luxury train project, following the recent unveiling of The Dream of the Desert initiative in Saudi Arabia.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Lorenzo Fanara, the Ambassador of Italy to the UAE, during the Middle East Rail Exhibition and Conference in Abu Dhabi. Etihad Rail secured a total of seven agreements during the event to further advance the development of its freight and passenger services.
CEO of Etihad Rail, Shadi Malak, expressed his commitment to fostering economic and social growth in the UAE through the National Rail Network, stating, "The establishment of a luxury train experience introduces a world-class offering to the region, enhancing the tourism sector in the UAE. Moreover, it provides an opportunity to showcase the country's diverse heritage and beauty to visitors worldwide."
Tailored for luxury, the train will consist of 15 lavish carriages, allowing passengers to embark on a captivating journey through the cosmopolitan cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and experience the natural wonders of Fujairah, with its majestic mountains bordering Oman, as well as the renowned Liwa desert and its enchanting oasis near the Mezeiraa train station.
Arsenale, in a press statement, emphasized that "The UAE will be among the first countries in the world to offer a luxury cruise service with a fully customized train." All carriages will be meticulously refurbished in specialized factories located in Puglia and Sicily, Italy. Italian expertise will shine through in the production, craftsmanship, quality of onboard services, interior design, and overall experience.
Paolo Barletta, CEO of Arsenale SpA, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Etihad Rail, highlighting the project's aim to promote the exploration of lesser-known territories outside the popular destinations of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Barletta emphasized the significance of railway cruises as a present and future tourism trend, offering a captivating and sustainable way to travel. He concluded, "This partnership demonstrates that passion knows no limits and there are no barriers that can impede the desire to transcend imagination."
In addition to the luxury train project, Etihad Rail sealed six other agreements during the 17th edition of the Middle East Rail. These agreements include the establishment of a joint venture company with DHL Global Forwarding, a collaboration with integrated logistics provider MICCO, memorandums of understanding with Morocco's national railway operator ONCF and global technology company Uber, an agreement with drone cargo specialist SkyGo, and a partnership with the Fujairah Natural Resources Corporation (FNRC), overseeing mining facilities specialized in extracting natural resources in Fujairah.
The inauguration of the National Rail Network in February this year has interconnected all emirates, seamlessly linking residential, industrial, and commercial hubs with four key ports across the UAE.