Today's Edition
MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI)
As the UAE's railway network continues to lay tracks, Emirati talent is increasingly making its mark on this key national project. Among those leading the way is Maithaa Al Remeithi, the first Emirati train controller at Etihad Rail, whose role in the Operations Control Centre places her at the helm of one of the country's most strategic infrastructure assets.
For Al Remeithi, representing Emiratis within the Control Centre is both a personal milestone and a national responsibility.
"Working in the Operations Control Centre as an Emirati means so much to me," she says. "As one of the first Emiratis to work here, I take real pride in contributing to our national railway operations and being part of such a strategic project. It reflects years of hard work and dedication, and it is a daily reminder of how the UAE's success lies in empowering Emiratis to make confident and inspired career choices."
Her journey in this highly technical field has been shaped by the opportunities available to UAE nationals in emerging sectors.
Al Remeithi explains how institutional support played a defining role in her career path. "One of the great things about being Emirati is that we benefit from a host of opportunities to explore emerging sectors and forge careers that are entirely new to the UAE," she said.
She praised Etihad Rail's commitment to Emiratisation, as well as specialised training such as the Railways Diploma Programme from the Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute (ADVETI), which she said equipped her with the skills and qualifications needed to succeed.
"These initiatives really help to open doors for Emiratis, and I am grateful for the support they have provided me in my career," she said.
Working in a control centre comes with intense pressure and responsibility.
Al Remeithi is candid about the challenges: "Working in the Control Centre comes with significant demands, not least because it's a role which is fundamental to the safety of our operations," she said.
"There are many hours of studying, training and high performance standards, especially when you are part of a project of this magnitude and national importance."
While the expectations are high, she adds that mentorship and teamwork have been key to her growth. "Thanks to the support of my colleagues and mentors, I continue to grow in confidence and capability."
Al Remeithi's role also gives her a unique vantage point on the UAE's long-term national vision.
The 900km-long Etihad Rail passenger network will connect 11 cities across the seven emirates in the UAE – stretching from Al Sila near the Saudi border to Al Dhaid in Sharjah, and from the western region of Abu Dhabi to Fujairah on the east coast. Plans currently aim for the entire service to be online in 2026.
"Working on such a prestigious project every day gives me an understanding of what we are trying to achieve at Etihad Rail," she said. "Through my role, I can see first-hand how the network will connect cities, communities and businesses across the UAE and the impact it will have on people's lives."
She described it as deeply motivating to witness the leadership's vision materialise through strengthened transport and infrastructure systems.
Al Remeithi believes Emiratis bring distinctive value to critical infrastructure projects. "We understand the environment and the land on which the network is built, and we bring a strong sense of national responsibility to our work," she said. "Our history is defined by ambition, and the belief in achieving the extraordinary is something we all carry within us."
Developing national talent, she stresses, is essential for sectors such as transport and logistics.
"These sectors play a crucial role in the UAE's growth," she said, adding that technical programmes help build long-term capacity among nationals.
Looking ahead, she hopes to impart her expertise to younger generations considering similar careers.
Her message to young Emiratis is clear and encouraging: "Be involved in a role that combines your passion with contributing to the growth of the UAE. Be brave, stay patient, and you will be rewarded with a fulfilling career. I encourage every young Emirati to make the most of the opportunities that have been given to us."
Reflecting on her journey, Al Remeithi acknowledges the pivotal role of national leadership.
"I would not be where I am today without the support of our leadership and our chairman, who has made Emiratisation a priority for Etihad Rail," she said. "The training programmes and support that I received are the foundation of my success today."
Balancing national representation with the technical demands of her role is a challenge she embraces daily.
"Working in the Etihad Rail Control Centre as an Emirati is a great honour," she said. "I must balance my role with the technical requirements needed, while representing my country to the best of my abilities."
As one of the pioneers in this field, Al Remeithi hopes her legacy will extend beyond her own achievements. "I hope to leave a legacy of excellence and inspiration," she said. "I strongly believe that Emirati women are key partners in the progress of our nation, and if I can encourage more Emirati women to join this field, I would be extremely proud."
Through her work, Maithaa Al Remeithi embodies the UAE's vision of empowered national talent driving the future of strategic infrastructure - one decision and one train movement at a time.
