Theyab bin Mohamed inaugurates Global Rail 2025

A collaboration of national and international stakeholders

The event is hosted by Etihad Rail in cooperation with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and dmg events. This year’s edition carries the theme “Driving the Future of Transport and Global Connectivity” and will run from September 30 to October 2, 2025. Dignitaries at the opening included ministers from UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Iraq.

Landmark partnerships unveiled

At the inauguration, Sheikh Theyab witnessed several major announcements, including a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis to launch passenger rail services in 2026. He also oversaw the signing of a “Bonded Rail Corridor” agreement linking Khalifa Port and Fujairah Terminals, and MOUs with Mermec, Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Railway Transport, and RITES Limited to deepen cooperation in rail technologies, signalling systems, and international rail development.

Vision for transport innovation

Sheikh Theyab emphasized that Global Rail 2025 embodies the UAE’s commitment to becoming a central hub for global dialogue, innovation, and collaboration in the transport sector. He praised the nation’s strides in infrastructure, AI, interoperability, and multibillion-dollar projects, noting that innovation and strategic partnerships are key to achieving safer, smarter, and more sustainable transport.

Strategic agenda and global participation

Global Rail 2025 features over 200 international speakers, 60+ CEOs, and delegations from more than 20 countries. Exhibits span four halls with 200+ companies across 14 sectors, including global rail operators from Afghanistan, Japan, India, Korea, Qatar, UAE, and more. The event also includes specialized zones for global projects, finance, and innovation, and will host both strategic and technical conferences covering high speed rail, AI, sustainability, policy, and engineering.

Empowering innovation and youth

The event will spotlight the Global Rail Innovation Award, offering an AED 1 million grant for transformative transport solutions. For the first time, it will also host a Youth Hackathon engaging students in practical mobility challenges under industry mentorship.

A global platform reflecting UAE ambitions

As a supported project of international rail bodies and strategic partners across government and industry, Global Rail 2025 stands as a testament to the UAE’s growing role in shaping the future of sustainable and smart transport worldwide.