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The train will be between Dubai (pictured) and Abu Dhabi (Image: Getty)
A new train line, which could cost up to £3billion according to estimates, is being built between two of the world’s richest cities.
The United Arab Emirates’ Etihad Rail has unveiled plans for a high-speed train line between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It will span 93 miles and take just 30 minutes.
The line is expected to be operational by 2030, with 20 miles underground. It is the first phase of a larger railway network.
The cost has not been disclosed but high-speed lines in Europe are estimated to be £32 million to £50 million per mile and as high as £67 million per km in California, according to the International Railway Journal.
Etihad Rail is still only used by freight train services, but there are major plans to roll out a passenger railway service in all emirates. Once open, the number of passengers is expected to reach 36.5 million annually.
The line will cost an estimated £9 billion (Image: Getty)
The high-speed train project will reach speeds of up to 217mph and pass through key destinations and tourist attractions for passengers and visitors.
The rail line will have stations at Al-Zahiyah (ADT), Saadiyat Island (ADS), Yas Island (YAS), Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) and Al-Jaddaf (DJD). The ADT, AUH and DJD stations will be underground.
Experts believe this project could transform the UAE and the lives of its citizens, with a predicted shift to rail usage, increased happiness due to convenience, and new opportunities for education and work.
“It changes the landscape tremendously,” said Monica Menendez, professor of civil and urban engineering at New York University Abu Dhabi. “And brings the cities very close together.”
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On X (formerly Twitter), Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, said the project will bring a brighter future.
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.”
Another major transport project currently underway in the UAE is the Dubai Metro Blue Line project. The line will run underground for 10 miles and above ground for nine miles. It will connect Dubai International Airport and nine key areas along the line.
Construction on the Metro Blue Line is scheduled to begin in April 2025 and open in September 2029.
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