Small town, big dreams: How Etihad Rail will put Sharjah's Al Dhaid on the map

In the heart of Sharjah's Central Region lies the historic oasis town of Al Dhaid, a place once recognized as the agricultural backbone of the emirate. Now, the town is set to become a notable destination on the national stage. Etihad Rail will inaugurate a passenger station in Al Dhaid on September 30, linking the town to the country's extensive rail network and transforming it from a tranquil retreat to an accessible cultural hub.

Al Dhaid is renowned for its date palm plantations, fruit farms, and a centuries-old irrigation system known as falaj. Visitors can explore Al Dhaid Fort, a picturesque landmark that served as a military fortification and now operates as a museum showcasing local heritage, falconry, and caravan history. The fort was restored and reopened in 2022, and in late 2023, it was inscribed on the Islamic World Heritage List by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.

Adjacent to the fort stands Al Mudarissa Tower, a well-preserved mud-brick defensive structure that offers a glimpse into the oasis's historical past. Just a short distance away, the Al Bridi Nature Reserve houses Sharjah Safari Park, the largest wildlife safari park outside of Africa, which is home to a diverse array of animals including lions, rhinos, giraffes, and elephants.

While Al Dhaid has long been appreciated for its agricultural offerings, it has typically been viewed as a stopover rather than a destination. However, with the arrival of the Etihad Rail station, the town is poised to experience increased visibility, improved accessibility, and new opportunities for tourism and investment. Adel Fathi, senior financial controller at Daraysh Hotel and Restaurant, expressed optimism about the rail connection, stating that it will allow the hotel to cater to a wider range of guests, including families, business travelers, and tourists who previously found Al Dhaid less convenient to reach.

The opening of the station is seen as a significant milestone for the town, as it will provide a more convenient and comfortable mode of transportation for visitors to explore Al Dhaid's natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and authentic Emirati culture. In addition to the railway, Al Dhaid is also the focal point for a new development project involving the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority and the Sharjah Initiatives Implementation Authority, commonly known as Mubadara.

The Al Dhaid Bridge and Lake Project will create a freshwater lake to store over 1.5 million cubic meters of water, reducing the town's temperature and serving as a water reserve for the emirate. Furthermore, Al Dhaid will serve as the starting point for a new trade route connecting the eastern and western regions of the country, with Gulftainer launching the Al Dhaid Multi-Modal Trade Corridor, a 150-hectare project with an annual capacity of 1.5 million container units.