Etihad Rail has unveiled a new electric high-speed train that will travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes. UAE officials previewed the 350 km/h service to the press at an event in Abu Dhabi, marking a milestone in the country's national rail ambitions. Alongside the high-speed line, a standard passenger network will operate at 200 km/h, connecting all seven emirates and extending toward Oman in the coming years.
Six Stations Across Two Emirates
The Etihad Rail high-speed train will serve six strategically located stations. On the Dubai side, the line starts at Al Jaddaf and also stops near Al Maktoum International Airport. On the Abu Dhabi side, it serves Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and terminates at Zayed International Airport. While all technical infrastructure is in place, Etihad Rail has not yet announced a commercial launch date for passenger operations.
AED 145 Billion in Economic Benefits
Mohammed Al Shehhi of Etihad Rail has stated that the high-speed rail system is projected to generate AED 145 billion in economic benefits to the UAE over 50 years. The project reinforces the UAE's commitment to eco-friendly transportation and strengthens connectivity across the region.
Route Details and Capacity
The standard passenger train will operate at 200 km/h, carrying up to 400 passengers per journey. The network will connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai on shared tracks alongside existing cargo operations, while being designed for future integration with the broader GCC Railway network. Additional stops at Mezeira'a and the Liwa Desert will open up access to previously underserved areas and link with Sharjah.
UAE's Sustainable Transport Push
The Etihad Rail Dubai to Abu Dhabi link is part of a wider push to modernise UAE transport. Both the high-speed and standard services run on electric power, supporting the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative. The announcement advances national infrastructure goals while offering commuters and visitors a fast, environmentally responsible alternative to road travel between the two largest cities in the country.
