Home » Latest Travel News » UAE Unites with Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, Oman and Iran To Witness these New Routes Paving Way for Surging Travel!

Published on
October 11, 2025

As the Middle East moves toward greater integration and economic development, rail transport plays a crucial role in connecting cities, boosting tourism, and enhancing regional trade. With several ambitious railway projects set to launch in 2026, the Middle East is on the verge of a significant transformation in its transportation infrastructure. From the UAE to Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and beyond, new train routes will soon offer faster, more sustainable travel options for both locals and tourists. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key train routes set to revolutionize travel across the region.

1. Etihad Rail – UAE’s National Passenger Network

The UAE has long been a leader in infrastructure development, and its new Etihad Rail passenger network will take that commitment to the next level. Slated for completion in 2026, the Etihad Rail project will connect key cities across all seven emirates, making travel across the UAE quicker and more convenient.

Route: The network will span from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, connecting the country’s major urban centers.Length: The total network will cover approximately 900 km.Key Features: The high-speed train will run at speeds of up to 200 km/h, providing passengers with fast and efficient travel across the emirates.Impact: This new rail service will reduce travel time significantly between cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, allowing for more seamless business, tourism, and cultural exchanges. In addition to passenger services, Etihad Rail will also support freight transportation, helping to further strengthen the UAE’s logistics capabilities. The launch of the Etihad Rail network will be a game-changer for both local commuters and international tourists visiting the UAE.2. Hafeet Rail – UAE–Oman Cross-Border Link

The Hafeet Rail project is another exciting rail initiative that will enhance connectivity between the UAE and Oman. This cross-border link is designed to facilitate both passenger and freight transport, promoting greater economic integration between the two countries.

Route: The rail line will connect Abu Dhabi in the UAE to Sohar Port in Oman.Length: The total distance covered by this rail link will be approximately 238 km.Launch: The project is expected to be completed by 2026.Purpose: This rail link will reduce the need for road transport between the UAE and Oman, making cross-border travel more efficient and environmentally friendly. It will also strengthen economic ties, with increased trade between the two countries.3. Dream of the Desert – Saudi Arabia’s Luxury Train

Saudi Arabia is also making bold strides in the development of its rail network. The kingdom’s Dream of the Desertluxury train service, set to launch at the end of 2025, will offer travelers a truly unique experience through the heart of the Arabian desert.

Route: The luxury train will connect Riyadh to Al Qurayyat, passing through regions like Al Qassim, Ha’il, and Al Jouf.Length: The train route will span approximately 1,300 km.Key Features: This train will feature 34 suites across 14 carriages, offering travelers a one- to two-day journey in ultra-luxury conditions. The train will provide stunning views of the desert landscape and showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage.Impact: The service is expected to become a major tourist attraction, promoting both luxury tourism and domestic travel. It is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to diversify its economy and attract international visitors as part of the Vision 2030 initiative.4. Amman–Damascus Rail Link – Reviving the Hijaz Railway

The historic Hijaz Railway, which once connected Damascus in Syria to Medina in Saudi Arabia, is set to be revived, with a new Amman–Damascus rail link expected to launch by the end of 2026.

Route: The rail line will connect Amman in Jordan to Damascus in Syria.Key Features: The new rail link will involve extensive reconstruction efforts, bringing back a key segment of the Hijaz Railway that was originally built in the early 20th century.Purpose: This project is a symbol of peace and cooperation between Jordan, Syria, and Turkey, and will help facilitate greater passenger and freight transport between the two capitals. It will also provide a direct rail link between Syria and Jordan, which will foster tourism and trade in the region.5. Rishon LeZion–Modi’in Railway – Israel’s Suburban Expansion

In Israel, a new suburban railway project will improve connectivity in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, providing faster travel for residents and visitors alike.

Route: The new rail line will connect Rishon LeZion to Modi’in, two of Israel’s largest cities.Length: The route will cover a distance of 30 km.Launch: The train service is expected to begin in 2026.Purpose: This project is part of Israel’s efforts to reduce congestion in the Tel Aviv area, as it will make commuting faster and more efficient. The electrified line will also encourage environmentally sustainable transportation within the growing suburban population.6. Saudi Landbridge – Connecting the Red Sea to the Arabian Gulf

Another major rail project in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Landbridge, which will link the Red Sea to the Arabian Gulf, enhancing both passenger and freight movement across the kingdom.

Route: The train will travel from Jeddah on the Red Sea to Riyadh in the Arabian Gulf.Length: The project will cover approximately 950 km.Launch: Completion is expected by 2026.Purpose: This freight-focused rail project aims to enhance the efficiency of trade by connecting Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast with its Arabian Gulf coast. It will also help reduce the reliance on road transport, contributing to environmental sustainability.7. Chabahar–Zahedan Railway – Iran’s Strategic Corridor

In Iran, the Chabahar–Zahedan railway is under development to connect the Chabahar Port to the national rail network, providing a vital route for landlocked countries in Central Asia.

Route: The line will connect Chabahar Port to Zahedan, located near the border with Afghanistan and Pakistan.Length: The route spans approximately 750 km.Launch: Initially slated for 2021, the project has faced delays, but it is now expected to be completed by 2026.Purpose: This railway will provide a critical transportation corridor for trade between Iran and its neighboring countries, boosting the economy of Chabahar as a major port and improving connectivity in the region.Conclusion: The Future of Rail Travel in the Middle East

The Middle East is poised for a major transportation overhaul, with numerous new train routes set to enhance regional connectivity, trade, and tourism by 2026. Whether it’s the luxurious Saudi Arabian train offering scenic desert views or the UAE’s ambitious national rail network, these projects promise to reshape the way people travel and do business in the region. As these projects move toward completion, travelers and industry professionals alike can expect to experience a new era of efficient, high-speed rail travel in the Middle East.