In a historic leap for regional transportation, Etihad Rail has successfully completed the first-ever magnetic levitation (maglev) rail trials in the Middle East. Conducted at the Al Faya Depot in Abu Dhabi in late January 2026, the test utilized cutting-edge “passive levitation” technology developed in partnership with the Italian engineering firm IronLev. Unlike traditional trains that rely on wheels and friction, this system uses powerful permanent magnets to allow the carriages to glide silently above the tracks. During the demonstration, the system proved its immense power by seamlessly levitating and transporting a 7-ton cargo container, marking a major milestone in the UAE’s journey toward ultra-high-speed, frictionless travel.
The introduction of maglev technology is expected to revolutionize the energy efficiency of the UAE’s national rail network. Because the train does not touch the tracks, energy consumption is reduced by approximately 29%, and mechanical wear and tear is virtually eliminated. While Etihad Rail’s standard passenger service—connecting 11 cities across the seven emirates—is already preparing for its grand launch later this year with speeds of 200 km/h, this maglev breakthrough paves the way for a future where travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai could take less than 20 minutes at speeds exceeding 350 km/h. This project reinforces the UAE’s position as a global leader in sustainable, next-generation infrastructure, setting a new benchmark for the future of mobility in the desert.
