Blitz Bureau
THE United Arab Emirates is set to launch the high-speed rail, Etihad Rail, which will connect key cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah with speed, luxury and top-tier amenities. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice- President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, travelled aboard a passenger train between Dubai and Fujairah.
This symbolic journey marks a critical phase in the Etihad Rail project, one of the most ambitious rail networks in the world, laying the groundwork for full passenger operations by 2026. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared photos on X of his journey aboard the Etihad Rail passenger train between Dubai and Fujairah, calling it a memorable ride. He was welcomed by a delegation from Etihad Rail led by Chief Business Support Officer Saeed AlAhbabi, along with several senior company executives.
The 900 km-long Etihad Rail network of UAE nearly took 17 years to build since its launch in 2009. With a travel time of just 30 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the Etihad Rail will pass through 11 cities, offering top-tier amenities such as Wi-Fi, infotainment, and fine dining. As per media reports, the train is projected to serve over 3.65 crore passengers annually by 2030, making it a game-changer in the Middle East’s transport infrastructure.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai is planning to fully integrate upcoming Etihad Rail passenger stations in Dubai with the city’s existing public transport network, reported Gulf News.
