Etihad Rail has announced the launch of a new high-speed passenger train service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, set to reduce travel time to just 30 minutes. The trains will travel at speeds of up to 350 km/h, significantly improving connectivity between the two emirates.

The announcement was made during an official ceremony at Al Faya Depot, with officials from the Dubai Media Office (DMO) and Abu Dhabi Media Office (ADMO) sharing the news on social media platform X.

The high-speed rail route will pass through major destinations and tourist attractions, providing a fast, efficient travel experience for both residents and visitors. The project is expected to spur socioeconomic development, boost tourism, and enhance the UAE's global competitiveness with sustainable transportation options. Additionally, it is projected to contribute AED 145 billion to the country's GDP over the next 50 years.

Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, commended the project, highlighting its potential to shorten travel distances, save time, and promote a more connected future.

Currently under development, the project has already approved contracts and network designs.

Alongside the high-speed train announcement, the UAE introduced its first passenger rail fleet, capable of reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h. This fleet will link key cities and regional routes, complementing the high-speed service.

The ceremony also marked the opening of the first four passenger rail stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. These stations will integrate with the metro and bus systems, creating a unified public transportation network.

This rail initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and improving quality of life through efficient, modern transport infrastructure.

(siasat.com)