MUSCAT: Systra, one of the world's leading engineering and consultancy groups specialising in public transport and mobility solutions, has been selected by Hafeet Rail, the developer of the Oman-UAE railway network, to oversee the delivery of the $2.5 billion joint project.
French-based Systra will provide a wide spectrum of engineering consultancy, administrative and technical support services encompassing virtually all key aspects of the landmark rail project, connecting Abu Dhabi in the UAE with Sohar Port in the Sultanate of Oman.
Its remit includes contract management, overseeing the performance of contractors and suppliers to ensure full compliance with all requirements and standards, and providing essential technical support for managing health, environmental, safety, and security standards. Additionally, Systra will manage and monitor the project schedule, review engineering designs, and supervise project execution, testing and commissioning up to the start of operations.
The announcement came on the heels of last week’s signing of financing agreements with a consortium of Omani, UAE, regional and international banks covering $1.5 billion in project finance.
Hafeet Rail (formerly known as Oman-Etihad Rail) is a joint venture between Oman Rail, Etihad Rail of the UAE, and Mubadala Investment Company (also of the UAE). The JV will operate the 238-km network, which has been designed for both passenger and freight-based transportation.
Asyad Group, which represents the Omani government’s shareholding in Hafeet Rail, has welcomed Systra’s role in the project as pivotal to its eventual success.
Ahmed al Bulushi, Chief Executive Asset Management at Asyad Group and Board Member of Hafeet Rail, commented: “Engaging Systra, a globally recognised leader in railway and infrastructure consultancy, as our administrative and engineering consultant marks a pivotal milestone for the UAE-Oman Rail Network project. This partnership guarantees the highest levels of safety and security, in line with international standards."
"Furthermore, we are dedicated to fostering the development of national talent in both countries by harnessing Systra’s unparalleled expertise and experience amassed over six decades across eighty countries. This collaboration will undoubtedly propel our project to new heights of excellence and innovation.”
Majority-owned by French state-run transport agencies RATP Group and SNCF, Paris-headquartered Systra has been a key player in providing engineering services for the construction of metros, high speed rail, railways and other transport and mobility solutions in around 80 countries globally.
Jean-Christophe Chuniaud, UAE & Europe Vice President at SYSTRA, stated, “Our partnership with Hafeet Rail allows us to bring our global expertise to the UAE-Oman Rail Network project. We will provide innovative and sustainable engineering solutions, drawing on our substantial experience in railway projects worldwide. This collaboration aims to meet the highest international standards, achieving the project's economic and social objectives.”
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