UAE announces new passenger train connecting Dubai, Abu Dhabi in 30 minutes
January 28, 2025
By Expat Media
Fast and eco-friendly! UAE’s first high-speed train will connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi in just 30 minutes, with speeds up to 350 km/h
The UAE has unveiled its first high-speed passenger train that is expected to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes.
The announcement was made on Thursday (January 23) during a high-profile event at the Al Faya Depot in Abu Dhabi, attended by top officials and stakeholders. During the event, UAE leaders toured a prototype of the passenger train, which showcased advanced design features intended to ensure a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
The train, which will travel at a remarkable speed of 350 km/h, will be operated by Etihad Rail. The new high-speed passenger train service will feature six stations, including Reem Island, Saadiyat, Yas Island, and Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, as well as Al Maktoum International Airport and Al Jaddaf in Dubai.
Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, I witnessed alongside my brother Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the historic launch of the high-speed train project linking Abu Dhabi… pic.twitter.com/p2xj2O3EtP
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) January 23, 2025
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to providing seamless and sustainable connectivity across the UAE,” said Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail.
The project, which is in its initial tendering phase, is part of a broader effort to enhance infrastructure and reduce travel time across the UAE. Al Shehhi noted that while the train and its infrastructure are fully designed, no official timeline for completion has been provided.
In addition to the high-speed service, a regular Etihad Rail passenger train operating at 200 km/h will eventually connect all seven emirates with 11 stations. This service will accommodate up to 400 passengers and will extend to the broader GCC once the regional railway network is operational.
Etihad Rail’s entire network is expected to contribute Dh145 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next 50 years, solidifying the country’s position as a regional transportation hub. “This is not merely a transportation project; it’s an economic engine for the UAE,” Al Shehhi added.
The high-speed train is all-electric, aligning with the UAE’s sustainability goals. It promises to significantly cut down on travel-related emissions, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional transportation modes. ICA/Expat Media
Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, I witnessed alongside my brother Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the historic launch of the high-speed train project linking Abu Dhabi… pic.twitter.com/p2xj2O3EtP
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) January 23, 2025
.jpg)
