His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced on Thursday the launch of the national railway network.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said on Twitter, “UAE today successfully launched the national railway network. It connects 4 major ports in the country and 7 logistical areas, and transports 60 million tonnes of goods annually. Our train network enhances our economy.”
The introduction of Etihad Rail, the national railway network of the UAE, is expected to boost the country’s economy and sustainability, with the real estate sector being the primary beneficiary. The railway system is anticipated to transport over 60M tonnes of freight and 36.5M passengers once it is fully operational.
The railway service will allow passengers to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in 50 minutes, and from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah in 100 minutes, although there has been no announcement regarding the start date of the passenger service.
His Highness emphasized that the railway network is a crucial strategic project that will have an economic impact of AED 200B until 2050. The project was completed through the collaboration of 180 federal and local authorities, who worked 133M working hours.
Etihad Rail has also announced that its first passenger train station will be situated in Fujairah and will link 11 regions across the UAE when completed.
