The UAE’s Etihad Rail Project is set to revolutionize travel in the region with its passenger and freight services, linking 11 cities and towns around the country. Although freight trains began operating on the rail network in February 2023, passenger services are expected to be available at a larger scale by 2030, with an estimated 36.5 million passengers expected to use the service. Train passenger services will enable users to plan their journeys between the emirates and cities more efficiently, significantly decreasing the travel time: traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai will take up to 50 minutes, traveling from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will take 100 minutes, traveling from Dubai to Fujairah will take 50 minutes, and traveling from Abu Dhabi to Ruwais will take 70 minutes. The train can also travel at speeds exceeding 200 km/h, making it a first-class way to travel. The network will extend from Al Sila to Fujairah, serving 11 cities and towns, and communities around the network, including Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Fujairah, Sharjah, and Al Dhaid. Etihad Rail has a promising future, as it is set to create economic opportunities valued at around Dhs200 billion. It is estimated that the rail service will reduce carbon emissions worth 21 billion, while road maintenance savings of Dhs8 billion have been forecast. By being environment friendly, providing provisions for minimal wildlife and heritage disruption, avoiding crossing breedings sites, using noise control tech to limit sound levels, etc., Etihad Rail has received key partnerships with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD).