Emirates Railway Company recently held a formal ceremony at Al Fayyah Station to announce the launch of the high-speed rail project connecting the capital Abu Dhabi and Dubai, a project approved by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The launch ceremony was attended by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council, as well as Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council.
The high-speed rail project between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is considered an important step in enhancing the UAE's position as a leading destination in the field of smart transportation by developing sustainable transportation systems, upgrading infrastructure, and adopting the latest innovative technologies. This project aims to achieve a balance between economic sustainability and environmental protection, and to achieve the goals of the "2050 Climate Neutral Strategic Initiative."
This high-speed railway will significantly reduce commute times between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, improving the daily lives of citizens, residents, and tourists, while also strengthening economic and social ties between the two cities. The project will also promote business development, opening up new opportunities for investment in key areas such as logistics and tourism, thereby supporting economic progress and building a more sustainable future for future generations. Sheikh Khaled emphasized that the project embodies the leadership's vision and their commitment to improving the country's infrastructure and transportation services.
Emirates Railway Company will be responsible for developing and operating the high-speed rail project between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, which will further consolidate the company's achievements in the UAE's railway sector. The railway will allow people to travel easily between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in no more than 30 minutes, at a top speed of 350 km/h, passing through important strategic destinations and tourist attractions. The project is expected to contribute up to 145 billion dirhams to the domestic gross product over the next fifty years.
Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that the project reflects the leadership's commitment to strengthening connections across the UAE using the most advanced modes of transportation. He also noted that the project will revolutionize the transportation sector and further consolidate the UAE's position as a leader in adopting innovative solutions in various important fields, both regionally and internationally. Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of the Dubai Executive Council, signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen the infrastructure construction of the high-speed rail project between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
During the launch ceremony of the high-speed rail project, the UAE's first passenger trains were also showcased. Sheikh Khaled and Sheikh Hamdan toured the trains and learned about their innovative designs. The trains will reach speeds of 200 km/h and will provide passengers with safe, reliable, and efficient transportation. The passenger trains will serve urban and regional routes, connecting major cities and communities across the UAE. In addition, the country's first four passenger train stations were unveiled, located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, respectively.
These train stations are strategically located and will connect to metro and bus lines to provide an interconnected transportation network. The stations will be equipped with modern facilities, including business lounges, shops, and family-friendly amenities, and will feature architectural designs inspired by UAE traditions. This demonstrates the UAE's commitment to innovation and excellence, while focusing on sustainability standards and community development.