This high-speed train cuts travel time by more than half.
The UAE is ensuring an easier commute for its people. With the Dubai Metro expanding and plans for Etihad Rail underway, there’s a lot going on in the region. And now, a new Abu Dhabi to Dubai train has been announced that will slash travel time between Dubai and the capital to just 30 minutes.
Etihad Rail plans to build a high-speed passenger train that can reach speeds of up to 350 kilometres per hour. Once operational, this rail service will connect key areas in both emirates, including Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi and stations near Al Maktoum International Airport and Dubai Creek in Jaddaf, Dubai. This train will revolutionise commutes and redefine travel standards across the UAE.
Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, I witnessed alongside my brother Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the historic launch of the high-speed train project linking Abu Dhabi… pic.twitter.com/p2xj2O3EtP
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) January 23, 2025
This new announcement marks a significant upgrade from Etihad Rail’s earlier plans, which projected a travel time of 57 minutes between Dubai and Abu Dhabi – already a big improvement over the usual 90-minute drive. But now, this high-speed service will get you to the capital in just 30 minutes, cutting travel time by more than half.
While the Abu Dhabi to Dubai train route is the highlight, this project is part of a larger vision. The inaugural passenger train fleet will accommodate up to 400 passengers, with family-friendly amenities and connections to metro and bus networks. Sharjah and Fujairah will also benefit from the initial rollout.
Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed and Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid witness announcement of high-speed train project linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 23, 2025
The train will enable individuals to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 350 km/h. This… pic.twitter.com/qNiX3fwsjR
Etihad Rail has been making steady progress. The first stage began in 2016, followed by the second in 2020. This network will eventually stretch across 1,200 kilometres, linking all seven emirates and 11 cities. Trains on the regular passenger line will travel at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour, providing efficient and scenic commutes across the UAE.
Details of when Etihad Rail is expected to launch the Abu Dhabi to Dubai train services are still under wraps, but reports suggest the initial trains could be up and running by 2030. So get ready to say goodbye to long car rides because Etihad Rail’s high-speed rail adventures are guaranteed to become the favourite mode of transport.
GO: Visit www.etihadrail.ae for more information.
