Dubai to Abu Dhabi in 30 minutes by high-speed rail

Travellers shuttling between Dubai and Abu Dhabi could swap the long drive for a fast train ride under plans taking shape under state-run Etihad Rail.

In fact, there could be two options for riding the rails.

First up will be a ‘fast rail’ option using the same lines as Etihad Rail’s current freight-only service.

Trains will travel at 200km/h, and allowing for stops en route, the Abu Dhabi-Dubai travel time will be under one hour, compared to 1.5 to 2 hours by road depending on the traffic.

The passenger rail system would extend across the UAE to connect urban and regional cities, with stations including business class lounges and integrate with metro and bus lines.

Etihad Rail aims to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai with a high-speed train service.

Each train will carry around 400 people and include free WiFi, charging points and seat-back video screens; Etihad Rail says there will be three classes, including dedicated business class carriages.

And then there’s the high-speed Etihad Rail service, which ER says will reach speeds up to 350km/h and reduce the travel time between Abu Dhabi and Dubai to just 30 minutes.

According to Etihad Rail, “the route will pass through key strategic destinations and tourist attractions, ensuring seamless travel for passengers and visitors.”

Both of these rail projects will relieve pressure on the busy UAE road network, and would also be transformative for commerce, tourism and even property prices.

Officials say the high-speed train is expected to contribute US$40 billion to the UAE’s GDP across the next five decades.

However, Etihad Rail has not provided any timeline for either the fast or high-speed train services between the UAE’s twin mega-cities.