A major new high-speed rail project linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai was recently unveiled by the Abu Dhabi Media Office. This ambitious initiative, which will be managed by Etihad Rail, aims to connect the two Emirates seamlessly, significantly reducing travel time and offering a high-speed, efficient travel experience for passengers.
The announcement of the project was made in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.
Key Details of the Abu Dhabi - Dubai High-Speed Rail Project
This landmark project, overseen by Etihad Rail, is distinct from the Etihad Rail Passenger service. According to statements from the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the project is expected to contribute over AED 145 billion to the UAE’s GDP, while also playing a pivotal role in helping the UAE achieve its Net Zero 2050 Strategy. The high-speed trains will travel at speeds of up to 350 km/h, reducing the travel time between Abu Dhabi and Dubai to just 30 minutes.
The rail line will pass through key strategic destinations and major tourist attractions, making it not only a convenient mode of transport but also a way to enhance the UAE's tourism infrastructure. Following the announcement, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasized the transformative impact of the project, stating, "The project unlocks new horizons for comprehensive development by advancing national transportation and infrastructure and ensuring a sustainable future for current and future generations."
Etihad Rail Passenger Service and Cooperation Charter
Alongside the high-speed rail project, the leadership also reviewed plans for the UAE's first passenger rail service. This service, which will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, will initially feature four stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. The stations will be equipped with business class lounges and modern amenities, offering passengers a high level of comfort. Additionally, the stations will be integrated with local city transit systems, enhancing the overall convenience for travelers.
As the rail network expands, additional stations will be added to the route in subsequent phases. In addition to the rail projects, both the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Dubai Executive Council signed a cooperation charter aimed at boosting collaboration on the projects and ensuring their success.
A New Era of Connectivity
With this high-speed rail initiative, the UAE is set to transform transportation between its two most important cities, further driving economic growth and sustainability. The project reflects the UAE’s commitment to building world-class infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for its residents and visitors. As the rail network continues to expand, it will play a crucial role in shaping the future of travel and connectivity across the Emirates.
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