THE board of directors of Spanish national operator Renfe has approved the creation of a new branch in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to support its projects and enhance its competitiveness in the region.

Renfe says the move aligns with the UAE’s ambitious railway development plans, spearheaded by national company Etihad Rail. This establishment of Renfe Projects International in the UAE will help Renfe secure new projects and ensure compliance with local legal requirements for business operations, the operator adds.

Renfe’s collaboration with Etihad Rail began with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in May 2022. This agreement encompasses a comprehensive range of activities, including planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of railway infrastructure and rolling stock, as well as technology development and mobility solutions.

This new branch adds to Renfe’s global presence, which includes offices in France, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia, a representative office in Brussels, a subsidiary in the United States, and majority ownership of passenger operator Leo Express in the Czech Republic.