Etihad Rail, Turkey’s Hareket to boost cargo movements in the Middle East

Etihad Rail partnered with Turkish heavy-lift specialist Hareket to handle oversized and complex cargo movements, according to a disclosure. The partnership aims to combine Hareket’s engineering and heavy-lifting expertise with the UAE’s 900-km national railway infrastructure.

Why it matters: For operators, moving heavy industrial equipment via rail is significantly more efficient and allows for higher capacity than road transport. For Hareket — which has already worked on Abu Dhabi’s Rahman Island Bridge project — partnering with the national carrier cements its position in a regional heavy-lift market that is increasingly focused on massive civil and energy infrastructure.

What’s next: Etihad Rail aims to transport 60 mn tons of cargo annually by 2030. The partnership could potentially lead to specialized rolling stock or dedicated heavy-lift hubs at rail terminals to accommodate the oversized equipment Hareket specializes in.

Equitativa, Premier Inn partner on AED 2 bn pipeline

Dubai-based Equitativa Real Estate partnered with Premier Inn Middle East on a AED 2 bn hospitality pipeline, according to a press release. The two sides inked an MoU to develop six to eight properties across the GCC to tap into the rising demand for mid-market offerings. The move will add 3.5k keys to Premier Inn’s regional portfolio, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah cited as key locations, alongside Riyadh and Jeddah.

Ohana Development launches AED 15 bn project

UAE-based Ohana Development launched a Manchester City-branded waterfront community on Yas Island, valued at AED 15 bn, according to a press release. The 1.7 mn sqm gated community along the Yas Canal will offer over 2k units, including villas, penthouses, and apartments, alongside a Manchester City Academy, hotel, marina club, retail promenade, and resort-style amenities. Completion is scheduled for 2029.

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