In a major milestone for the UAE’s transportation sector, Etihad Rail has officially launched plans for a cutting-edge high-speed rail service linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
The announcement on January 24, 2025, was made during an official ceremony at Al Faya Depot, attended by the nation’s top leaders, including President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The ambitious project is poised to significantly transform travel between the two emirates, reducing the journey time to just 30 minutes. With speeds reaching up to 350 km/h, the new train will cover key destinations, offering passengers a swift, efficient, and environmentally-friendly alternative to road travel.
The high-speed rail project aligns with the UAE’s vision for advancing infrastructure and enhancing mobility while contributing to sustainable economic growth. It supports the nation’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy and positions the UAE as a global leader in smart, sustainable transport solutions. Not only will it streamline travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, but it will also foster greater socioeconomic connectivity between the two emirates.
With the blessing of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed, and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid witnessed the announcement of the high-speed rail project that will link Abu Dhabi and… pic.twitter.com/1iCbiHifyC
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 23, 2025
Speaking at the event, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasized that the high-speed train reflects the leadership’s commitment to building world-class infrastructure. This project advances the country’s vision to elevate national mobility services to the highest standards while bolstering global competitiveness and supporting sustainable development, he said.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, highlighted the project’s role in boosting the UAE’s status as a global model for innovation and excellence. He said the project will transform the daily commute between Dubai and Abu Dhabi to enhance the lives of citizens, residents and tourists through an advanced transportation solution.
Sebastien Mangeant, Executive Director for High-Speed Rail at Etihad Rail, emphasized the safety and convenience of the service. High-speed trains offer a safer, faster, and more efficient way to travel, and they will be a key support for tourism, ensuring the UAE remains a global destination for visitors, he said.
Key features of Dubai-Abu Dhabi train
The high-speed rail service is part of a broader effort to modernize the UAE’s rail network. The UAE’s first passenger train fleet, also unveiled at the ceremony, will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h and will connect key cities and communities across the nation. Etihad Rail, which is responsible for both the high-speed and regular services, is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and reliability.
- The high-speed train will travel at speeds of up to 350 km/h, reducing travel time between Abu Dhabi and Dubai to just 30 minutes.
- The train features a state-of-the-art design, ensuring both comfort and efficiency for passengers.
- The route will pass through key strategic destinations and tourist attractions, offering a smooth and convenient travel experience.
- Equipped with the latest rail technologies, the train provides a safe, reliable, and efficient mode of transportation.
- The high-speed rail is an all-electric system, contributing to the UAE’s sustainability goals by reducing carbon emissions and alleviating road congestion.
- Designed with passengers in mind, the train offers a seamless travel experience with amenities that enhance comfort and convenience.
When will Etihad rail open for passengers?
The completion date for the high-speed passenger service and stations has yet to be confirmed. While the project is still in its early stages, with Etihad Rail currently soliciting bids for project contracts and awaiting final approval of network designs, the announcement marks a significant milestone for the national rail network. It signals a major step forward in the UAE’s transportation ambitions, though it may take some time before the project is fully operational.
The fare structure for the high-speed rail service has yet to be announced, and the cost of constructing the line remains undisclosed. High-speed rail networks typically involve higher construction costs compared to regular lines. However, they offer significant benefits, including reduced travel times, decreased congestion, and lower emissions.
Etihad Rail unveils first four passenger rail stations
Etihad Rail have announced the first four passenger stations in the UAE, which will soon be connected by train. The first four stations of the Etihad Rail network will be “strategically located” in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. These will be integrated with metro and bus lines.
The main Etihad Rail passenger network will link 11 cities and regions across the country. Etihad Rail runs a freight service across a 1200km network in the UAE. The company is also working with Hafeet Rail to build te firts-ever rail link between the UAE and Oman.
Boosting Economy and Tourism
The project is expected to have a profound impact on the UAE’s economy, officials said. According to estimates, the high-speed rail service will contribute an impressive AED 145 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next 50 years. It is also set to play a crucial role in enhancing the tourism sector, providing quick access to key tourist destinations along the route. The planned stations, which will include major attractions like Yas Island, Reem Island, and Zayed International Airport, ensure the service caters to both commuters and tourists alike.
While construction of the high-speed rail service has yet to begin, significant progress has already been made, with tenders for project contracts issued and network designs approved. Etihad Rail plans to move forward with the next phases of development, paving the way for the completion of the project in the coming years.
The high-speed train project represents a major leap forward for the UAE’s infrastructure and will enhance the daily lives of citizens, residents, and tourists. As the country continues to invest in innovative solutions for sustainable growth, the high-speed rail service will remain a key pillar in shaping the UAE’s future.