ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed two significant memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to bolster their rail cooperation, following a substantial investment from the UAE. The agreements were formalized by Pakistan Railways CEO, Amir Ali Baloch, and Etihad Rail CEO, Shadi Malik, during a visit on February 28, 2025.
These MoUs pave the way for comprehensive studies aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s existing rail infrastructure and constructing a new rail line. The collaboration focuses on improving connectivity, facilitating mobility, and driving economic growth in Pakistan.
A key project under this partnership is the construction of a dedicated 50-kilometer freight line from Karachi Port to the Pipri marshalling yard. This development, funded by the UAE and managed by Dubai-based DP World, is expected to significantly boost Pakistan’s logistics capabilities.
Earlier, in January 2024, the governments of the UAE and Pakistan inked an agreement for over $3 billion in investments to upgrade Pakistan’s rail network, reflecting the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
This enhanced rail cooperation underscores the UAE’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s infrastructure development and economic progress.
