Etihad Rail has unveiled the first high-speed, all-electric passenger train designed to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai, cutting travel time between the two emirates to just 30 minutes.
The announcement, made on Thursday, marks a major step forward in the UAE’s transport infrastructure as the country gears up to embrace modern, sustainable rail travel.
The new high-speed train, which will operate at a speed of 350 km/h, is set to transform commuting between the two bustling cities.
The service will make stops at six key stations, including Reem Island, Saadiyat, and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, as well as near Al Maktoum International Airport and Al Jaddaf in Dubai.
This state-of-the-art electric train offers a faster and greener alternative to traditional modes of transport.
In addition to the high-speed train, Etihad Rail will also introduce a regular passenger service, providing a more accessible travel option for those not needing the quick pace of the high-speed train.
The regular passenger train will travel at 200 km/h and will connect various parts of the UAE, including Sharjah, Fujairah, and the Liwa Desert, eventually extending to Oman once the GCC Railway is operational. The regular train will be able to accommodate up to 400 passengers.
Mohammed Al Shehhi, chief projects officer at Etihad Rail, noted that while the plans for the high-speed train and related infrastructure are underway, the completion timeline remains uncertain.
Tenders for construction are still being finalized, and no official date has been set for when the service will be operational.
However, the project is expected to contribute significantly to the UAE’s economy, with an estimated Dh145 billion boost to the nation’s GDP over the next 50 years.
The addition of these rail services is part of a broader vision for modernizing the UAE’s transportation network, which aims to reduce traffic congestion, decrease carbon emissions, and provide a faster, more efficient way for people to travel across the country.
The regular passenger train will be integrated into the same rail system used by cargo trains, ensuring a smooth and efficient transport network across the emirates.
While specific operational dates remain under wraps, Etihad Rail’s ambitious plans have generated excitement among residents and commuters in the UAE, as well as travelers from neighboring GCC countries.
Once fully operational, the rail system is expected to offer a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to road transport, making the UAE’s transport network one of the most modern in the region.
As construction progresses, all eyes will be on Etihad Rail to see how it transforms the travel landscape, providing a glimpse into the future of high-speed, sustainable rail transport in the UAE.