The UAE’s high-speed rail project between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will reduce travel times to 30 minutes, boost the economy by AED 145 billion, enhance connectivity, support sustainability, and align with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy.
In a landmark event at Al Faya Depot, H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, unveiled a transformative new high-speed train project set to link the UAE’s two largest cities, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
The high-speed rail system, designed to reduce travel time between the two cities to just 30 minutes, promises to revolutionise the UAE’s transport landscape. With the ability to reach speeds of up to 350 km/h, the train will provide seamless connectivity, reducing congestion and improving the quality of life for citizens, residents, and visitors alike. This move aligns with the UAE’s strategic goal of fostering sustainable economic growth, promoting environmental stewardship, and contributing to the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy.
A key moment during the event was the signing of a Cooperation Charter between the two emirates, aimed at enhancing the project’s infrastructure and ensuring the smooth development of the rail network.
The high-speed rail project is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting the UAE’s economy, with an estimated contribution of AED 145 billion to the national GDP over the next five decades. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, underscored the economic significance of the project, stating that the high-speed rail system will not only provide efficient travel but also act as a catalyst for enhanced economic and social integration between the two cities.
“Trade, tourism, and logistics sectors will benefit from this infrastructure, which will enhance the movement of goods and people across key hubs,” Al Shehhi remarked. He also highlighted that the project is aligned with the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development, as the entire rail system will be powered by electricity, helping the nation achieve its Net Zero 2050 objectives.
Strategic Stations and Multimodal Integration
The project will feature six strategically located stations, including key destinations in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, such as Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, Al Maktoum International Airport, and the Jaddaf area. These stations will serve as critical nodes in the UAE’s broader transport network, integrating seamlessly with existing metro and bus lines to create a comprehensive, multimodal transportation system.
On the sidelines of the announcement, H.H. Sheikh Khaled and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan were presented with a detailed overview of the UAE’s first passenger train fleet, designed to offer a safe, efficient, and family-friendly travel experience. The fleet will feature advanced technological capabilities, including automated systems for enhanced safety and operational efficiency, and will accommodate up to 400 passengers per train.
Innovation and Sustainability
H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, speaking at the event, emphasised that the project reflects the nation’s vision to advance national infrastructure and elevate mobility services to world-class standards.
“This ambitious project will bolster the UAE’s global competitiveness, promote sustainable development, and contribute to creating a smarter, more resilient transport ecosystem,” said H.H. Sheikh Khaled. “By investing in cutting-edge technologies, we are shaping a brighter future for our citizens and residents while setting new benchmarks for infrastructure development worldwide.”
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed echoed this sentiment, describing the project as a transformative force for the UAE’s transportation sector. “This high-speed train project will connect the UAE’s key cities, fostering stronger economic ties, improving accessibility, and creating new opportunities for investment and growth,” he said.
A New Era for UAE Transport
Etihad Rail, the state-owned company responsible for the development and operation of the national rail network, will oversee the execution of the high-speed train project. The company has already achieved significant milestones in the development of the UAE’s national rail infrastructure, with the network’s design and tendering process now complete.
Etihad Rail’s commitment to delivering the high-speed rail system on time and to the highest standards of quality and efficiency was reiterated by Al Shehhi. “This project represents a historic milestone for the UAE’s transportation sector, further solidifying our position as a global leader in smart transport solutions,” he said.
In addition to the high-speed train project, Etihad Rail also announced the establishment of four new passenger train stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. These stations will provide easy access to rail services, connecting the UAE’s urban and regional areas and fostering greater integration across the country. The stations will also offer a range of amenities, including business-class lounges, retail outlets, and family-friendly facilities, all designed with sustainability in mind.
Looking Ahead: A Transformative Impact
As the UAE continues to expand its transport infrastructure, the high-speed train project stands as a shining example of the nation’s ability to harness cutting-edge technologies for the benefit of its people and the wider global community. With the first phase of the project set to be completed in the coming years, the UAE is poised to redefine the future of transportation, making travel faster, greener, and more efficient than ever before.
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