Etihad Rail has chosen Jacobs Engineering Group to deliver critical technical and programme consulting services for its freight and passenger rail network in the UAE.

As per the terms of the agreement, Jacobs will deliver engineering and design services for the 900km network, as well as review and provide oversight for the detailed designs to be prepared by design and build contractors. The firm will also provide construction supervision for the entire project.

The project will be built in phases and will link the main population and industry centres in the country. It will also serve as a critical part of the planned GCC railway network.

“We were able to bring together the combined technical resources and synergies of Jacobs and our recently acquired CH2M team that presents a fully-integrated service offering for this world-class rail project. This included accessing the best talent across the breadth of our global network, coupled with a strong local presence provided by Jacobs in the UAE,” said Jacobs Buildings, Infrastructure and Advanced Facilities president Bob Pragada.

The rail network aims to provide enhanced connectivity across geographic markets and services for both freight and passengers. Anticipated benefits include lower transportation costs, faster journeys than highway alternatives and reduced levels of highway congestion.