Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has launched a new high-speed train project linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai, in an official ceremony at Al Faya Depot.
The Abu Dhabi-Dubai high-speed train project further strengthens the UAE’s position as a global leader in smart transportation. By integrating cutting-edge and innovative technologies, the project elevates the nation’s transport infrastructure, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship, while contributing significantly to achieving the objectives of the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy.
The high-speed train project will enable seamless connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, significantly reducing travel times. It will also enhance the quality of life for citizens, residents and visitors while strengthening socioeconomic ties between the two emirates.
Additionally, the high-speed train will reinforce infrastructure to drive business growth and unlock new investment opportunities across key sectors such as logistics and tourism, contributing to sustainable development for generations to come.
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasized that this ambitious project reflects the UAE leadership’s vision to advance national infrastructure and elevate mobility services to the highest standards. His Highness also underscored that the high-speed train aims to bolster the UAE’s global competitiveness, support sustainable development and solidify the nation’s position as a global model for innovation and progress.
His Highness highlighted that the project unlocks new horizons for comprehensive development by advancing national transportation and infrastructure and ensuring a sustainable future for current and future generations. The project will improve the quality of life to align with the aspirations of the next phase of progress, which requires accelerated efforts to achieve the objectives and priorities of the forward-looking national economic vision driven by knowledge and innovation.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum remarked that the high-speed train is a testament to the UAE leadership’s commitment to connecting the nation’s emirates through advanced transportation solutions that set new global standards for quality and excellence.
30-minute journey
Etihad Rail will oversee the development and operation of this landmark project, building on its achievements in developing the national railway sector and operating the national rail network with the highest standards of efficiency, quality and reliability.
The high-speed train will enable individuals to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h. The route will pass through key strategic destinations and tourist attractions, ensuring seamless travel for passengers and visitors.
The project will significantly contribute to the UAE’s socioeconomic and tourism development, strengthening its position among advanced nations through fast, efficient and sustainable rail transport, boosting tourism and elevating economic growth. The high-speed train is expected to contribute AED 145 billion ($39 billion) to the UAE’s GDP over the next five decades.
Cooperation Charter for high-speed train project
The announcement ceremony included the signing of a Cooperation Charter by His Excellency Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Dubai.
The charter aims to enhance the project’s infrastructure, building on the close collaboration between the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and the Dubai Executive Council.
High-speed train project contracts
Development of the high-speed train project has progressed with the issuance of tenders for project contracts and the approval of network designs. These milestones reflect the significant progress in advancing the project and ensuring its smooth execution.
Following these key achievements, subsequent phases of the project will be developed in the coming years, paving the way for its final completion.
Passenger train
On the sidelines of the high-speed train announcement, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed a comprehensive presentation on the UAE’s first passenger train fleet.
Their Highnesses toured a train, exploring its cutting-edge design and advanced features, which will help provide a seamless travel experience at speeds of up to 200 km/h.
The unveiling of the passenger train fleet, alongside the high-speed train announcement, marks a key milestone in the development of rail transport services in the UAE. Offering a safe, reliable and efficient travel option, the passenger train reflects the spirit of national unity. It is designed to complement the high-speed train by connecting urban and regional routes, linking key cities and communities across the UAE.
The first four-passenger rail stations
The ceremony also saw the announcement of the first four-passenger rail stations in the UAE, marking progress toward an integrated rail network for passengers. These strategically located stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah will improve access to rail services. They will integrate with metro and bus lines, creating a comprehensive and interconnected transport network.
Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the stations will include business-class lounges, retail outlets and family-friendly amenities. Inspired by Emirati heritage, the stations’ innovative designs reflect the UAE’s dedication to excellence and sustainability, while fostering community development and supporting the nation’s forward-looking vision.
