New Train Is Being Tested On Etihad Rail Tracks In Dubai

A resident from Al Qudra area in Dubai captured test runs of new trains on the tracks of the Etihad Rail. “For the past two or three days, I have been seeing the new trains on the track,” said Zamaqshari Zubair, a resident of Nshama townhouses near Al Qudra. “It looks very impressive.”

The resident assumed it was a passenger train, but Etihad Rail clarified that it was a freight train. According to the resident, the wagons were closed, leading him to believe they were the highly anticipated passenger ones.

Residents living in communities around the Al Qudra area, where the Etihad rail tracks run through Dubai, have been able to see the tracks progressing and test runs being conducted on a regular basis. These include those staying in Remraam, Mudon, Mira and Town Square communities.

A futuristic and sleek-looking passenger train was first displayed during the 51st National Day celebrations in Abu Dhabi. During the epic celebrations in Abu Dhabi in December last year, the first prototype of the passenger train rolled in, as the audience waved and cheered.

The rail operator posted a video on Twitter, showing a train moving on a railway track:

It is a privilege for Etihad Rail to serve the nation, and we were honored to be showcased in UAE’s National Day Celebrations. This national showcase provided the perfect opportunity to give the UAE public a glimpse of the future, unveiling our first prototype passenger train. pic.twitter.com/GoS7rHZmpV

— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) December 5, 2022

The 1200-kilometre-long Etihad Rail project will connect all seven emirates and 11 major cities starting from the UAE’s border with Saudi Arabia up to the country’s border with Oman. It is expected to revolutionise travel in the country when it is complete. Last year, the linking of Abu Dhabi and Dubai by a 256km railway line was completed, and residents around the new Dubai area have been able to watch the network progressing.

The passenger train, when it begins operation, will reduce commute time by 30-40 per cent– with travel times from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, and from Dubai to Fujairah, expected to take only 50 minutes.

A top Etihad Rail official had earlier said that the railways will be integrated with all modes of transport so that passengers can get a “door-to-door” service, to ensure they reach their final destination from the station in the utmost comfort.