Abu Dhabi is set to host the inaugural Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference (Global Rail) from 8-10 October 2024 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Presidential Court, this event promises to be a landmark gathering for the rail and transport industry.
Hosted by Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Rail Network, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure (MOEI), ADNEC Group, and dmg Events, Global Rail Transport Infrastructure 2024 is poised to become a central platform for discussing the future of rail transport and infrastructure on a global scale.
The event will bring together over 15,000 senior decision-makers, thought leaders, 1,000 delegates, and more than 300 exhibiting companies from over 40 countries. This diverse assembly of experts and industry leaders will set the stage for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, focusing on the development and future of rail transport infrastructure.
Setting the Agenda: Six Thematic Streams
The Global Rail agenda will span three days and feature six thematic streams, offering more than 40 keynote addresses, panel discussions, and fireside chats. These sessions are designed to address the most pressing issues in the rail industry today. Topics will include global trends in rail, sustainable infrastructure, multimodal integration challenges, environmental impact, new regulatory frameworks, financing, logistics, and advanced security and safety practices.
These thematic streams will provide a comprehensive overview of the rail sector’s current landscape and future trajectory. The event will engage over 120 speakers, including global policymakers, government representatives, institutional leaders, and railway pioneers. Their insights and discussions will help shape the future of rail transport, focusing on creating an interconnected and sustainable global infrastructure.
A Platform for International Collaboration
His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, emphasised the importance of collaboration in his remarks about the event. He noted that Etihad Rail is cultivating a thriving transportation ecosystem rooted in collaboration, prosperity, and opportunity.
The support from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the UAE’s leadership is crucial in positioning the UAE’s national rail project internationally. The Global Rail event will provide Etihad Rail with a platform to enhance the regional transport and logistics sector, meeting growing demands and driving further development.
This event in Abu Dhabi is not just about showcasing the latest in rail technology and infrastructure but also about forming partnerships and concluding future agreements. As His Excellency Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated, the railway sector in the UAE and GCC countries is a pivotal part of the region’s future vision. The Global Rail event will contribute to this vision by creating a global platform that supports the ongoing development of the rail sector.
Aligning with the UAE’s Vision
Christopher Hudson, President of dmg Events, highlighted the alignment of Global Rail with the UAE’s vision of a green, energy-efficient, and people-centric environment. The event will showcase state-of-the-art rail solutions and ignite essential conversations about the future of transport. The involvement of key stakeholders underscores the shared commitment within the industry to advance transportation choices at a rapid rate.
His Excellency Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and CEO of ADNEC Group, expressed his pleasure in hosting this global event in partnership with crucial UAE entities. He emphasised that the event aligns with Abu Dhabi’s efforts to develop the logistics sector and supports the diversification of the national economy. The Global Rail event will highlight the UAE’s role in driving the transport and railway sector forward, reinforcing the country’s position as a leader in this field.
A Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
One of the key themes of the Global Rail event is sustainability. The event aims to signal a new era of socioeconomic growth and diversification possibilities, strongly emphasising international collaboration and strategic initiatives to reduce carbon emissions through alternative transport solutions. Visitors can look forward to gaining insights into the next generation of rail transport, including innovative rail systems and the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in automating railways.
The focus on sustainability aligns with the UAE’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmentally friendly solutions. The Global Rail event will serve as a platform for discussing and implementing these initiatives, ensuring that the rail sector continues to evolve to benefit future generations.
Conclusion
The Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Event 2024 is more than just an exhibition; it is a vital platform for shaping the future of rail transport and infrastructure. With the participation of global leaders, industry experts, and innovators, the event will foster collaboration and drive the development of sustainable, interconnected transport systems. As Abu Dhabi hosts this groundbreaking event, the city will further solidify its position as a global hub for innovation in the transport and logistics sectors. Mark your calendars for 8-10 October 2024, and prepare to witness the future of rail transport in action.
