Rail network could cost Dh30bn

The planned 1,200km UAE-wide railway system could cost between Dh25 billion (US$6.8bn) and Dh30bn, according to early estimates by the new chairman of Union Railways.

Hussain al Nowais, who was appointed on Wednesday by Presidential Decree, said rail links would be a key driver in the country’s economic development, cutting transport costs, reducing road transport emissions and creating stronger economic links among the emirates.

“The development we are envisaging in the UAE will be accelerated through this logistical network,” Mr al Nowais said on Wednesday. “It will be faster and safer, less polluting and more efficient.”