Hafeet Rail, the cross-border railway developer linking Oman and the UAE, has signed an agreement with Brazilian iron ore producer Itaminas Comercio De Minerios S.A. to develop an integrated, sustainable logistics solution for the iron ore and steel industries in both countries.
The partnership aims to leverage Hafeet Rail’s advanced infrastructure and connectivity, particularly through Sohar Port’s rail-linked facilities, to enhance supply chain efficiency and support value-added iron ore processing. Sohar’s strategic role, ongoing expansion, and seamless integration with Hafeet Rail make it a key hub for this initiative.
Construction of the Hafeet Rail network is progressing in both Oman and the UAE, with groundwork, railbed preparation, and structural work on major bridges and tunnels already underway.
Itaminas, which currently produces 6.5 mln tons of high-grade iron ore annually, with plans to increase capacity to 15.5 mln tons. is positioning the Middle East as a key export destination via Brazil’s Port of Sudeste. The company is also exploring local value chain development in the GCC, tapping into the region’s infrastructure, energy advantages, and strategic location.