Etihad Rail Announces Game-Changing High-Speed Train Link Between Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Etihad Rail has announcement of a new high-speed train project linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai, in an official ceremony organised by Etihad Rail at Al Faya Depot. The 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 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.

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His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised 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.

His Highness also emphasised that the project will improve 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 emphasised 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.

His Highness stated that the project will transform the transport sector, further reinforcing the UAE’s growing status as a regional and international leader in adopting innovative solutions across key sectors.

His Highness further noted the project’s profound national importance, underscoring its role in strengthening infrastructure and facilitating the development of other key sectors.

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 AED145 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next five decades.

Cooperation Charter to enhance the infrastructure of the 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.

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