New high-speed train to connect two Brit-loved winter sun destinations in just 30 minutes
A GROUNDBREAKING new rail project will shave off 50 per cent of the travel time between two popular destinations.
The new plans will connect two major cities in the UAE, which are loved by Brits for their year-long sunny weather.
The trains will connect Abu Dhabi with Dubai and are expected to reach speeds of 350km/h.
They will also stop at some of the region’s most popular destinations along the way.
It was announced in a grand ceremony organised by Etihad Rail, on January 22, 2025.
However, the firm has yet to reveal when the railway will be opened for the public.
Currently, Etihad Rail is only used by freight train services.
The royal families of Dubai and Abu Dhabi hope that expanding the use of the rails will improve the quality of life for citizens, residents and visitors.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is Dubai’s Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence opened up about the project on X.
He said: “A heartfelt thank you to the Etihad Rail team, under the leadership of my brother, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for their outstanding efforts.
“These initiatives will drive progress, shorten distances, save time, and pave the way for a brighter, more connected future.”
Alongside the announcement, the crown princes of Abu Dhabi and Dubai reviewed a presentation on the UAE’s first passenger train fleet.
Those trains will run at 200km/h and are hoped to complement the faster trains.
The news comes months after Abu Dhabi announced another train route, which will connect the state with Oman.
It will reportedly cost an eyewatering £2.3 billion to build.