Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – May 19, 2024 – Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has been honored with two significant awards at the Global Excellence Assembly (GEA) Awards 2024. The company received both the Organizational Achievement Award and the Excellence in Sustainability Award, recognizing its exceptional contributions to operational excellence and sustainability.

The Global Excellence Assembly Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in innovation, leadership, and sustainability across various sectors. Winning these awards highlights Etihad Rail’s commitment to delivering safe, sustainable, and efficient rail-based transport solutions that connect the UAE and support its economic and social development goals.

Key Highlights

1- Organizational Achievement Award

Etihad Rail’s organizational excellence is underscored by its robust governance structures, strategic planning processes, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction. The company’s leadership has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to ethical standards and strategic alignment with its vision and mission. Etihad Rail’s strategic initiatives, such as the ‘2021-2023 Strategy Plan,’ have focused on innovation, operational efficiency, and market expansion.

Feedback Highlights:

• Leadership: Robust governance frameworks ensure adherence to ethical standards and promote a culture of compliance and excellence.
• Strategic Planning: Dynamic processes involving periodic reviews and stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment with long-term objectives.
• Customer Focus: Effective use of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
• Results: Significant improvements in financial performance, service reliability, and customer retention rates.

2- Excellence in Sustainability Award

Etihad Rail’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its comprehensive ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy. The company has achieved significant milestones in reducing its environmental impact and enhancing social benefits. Key initiatives include reducing electricity and fuel consumption, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, and implementing extensive waste management and biodiversity conservation programs.

Feedback Highlights:

• Energy and Emissions: Reduced electricity and fuel consumption by 1.5% and greenhouse gas emissions by 7.6% over 2019 levels.
• Waste Management: Achieved a 24% reduction in waste generation compared to 2019.
• Environmental Conservation: Relocated 1,200 Ghaf trees and constructed wildlife corridors along the railway network.
• Social Impact: Improved connectivity and economic benefits for rural areas, enhanced air quality, and created job opportunities.

Vision and Future Plans:

Etihad Rail’s vision is to “safely and sustainably connect regions and integrate industries through rail-based transport.” The company’s mission is to “develop and operate safe, sustainable, and cost-efficient rail solutions, connecting the UAE and serving clients, industries, and society with passion.” Looking ahead, Etihad Rail aims to continue its focus on innovation and sustainability, integrating advanced technologies and expanding its service offerings to further enhance its impact on the UAE’s economy and environment.

About Etihad Rail:Etihad Rail was established in June 2009 to develop, construct, and operate the UAE’s national freight and passenger railway network. The company is a key player in the UAE’s transportation sector, promoting economic growth, sustainability, and social development. Etihad Rail’s network connects the seven Emirates of the UAE and links to neighboring GCC countries, providing a modern, safe, and efficient transport solution.

For more information about Etihad Rail, visit www.etihadrail.ae.