Israel–UAE Railway Project Advances with Israeli Delegation Visit to Abu Dhabi
On November 25, 2025, a significant step was taken towards the realization of a long-anticipated railway link between Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This development follows a visit by an Israeli delegation led by Miri Regev, Israel"s Minister of Transport, to Abu Dhabi. The railway project, which has been in the works since the normalization agreements known as the Abraham Accords were signed in 2020, is gaining momentum as both nations seek to enhance connectivity in the Gulf region.
Key Details
The railway project is part of a broader initiative to improve transportation links across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. The UAE has been expanding its Etihad Rail network, which now extends westward to the Saudi border at Al Ghuwaifat. This line, operational since 2023, connects the port of Al Fujairah to the Saudi frontier. However, the completion of the railway link to Israel hinges on the involvement of Saudi Arabia, which has yet to commence construction on its segment of the railway that would connect to Jordan and Israel.
Both Israel and the UAE currently operate modern rail systems, which positions them well for the integration of cross-border links necessary to complete this railway corridor. The focus now is on the planning and development of these critical connections.
Background
The initiative to establish a railway link between Israel and the UAE is part of a larger vision for a unified regional rail network known as the Gulf Railway initiative. This ambitious project aims to connect all six GCC countries—Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman—through a comprehensive railway system. The original target for the initial operation of this network is set for 2030. As part of this initiative, Israel and Jordan are expected to integrate into the system, contingent upon the state of diplomatic relations, thereby creating a potential land bridge from the Gulf to the Mediterranean Sea.
What"s Next
The advancement of the Israel-UAE railway project signifies a pivotal moment in regional cooperation and connectivity. As the UAE continues to expand its rail infrastructure, the next steps will involve negotiations and planning with Saudi Arabia to ensure the completion of the necessary links. The successful realization of this project could enhance trade, tourism, and economic collaboration among the Gulf states and beyond, fostering a new era of connectivity in the region.
For further insights into related developments in the region, see our coverage on U.S. Army Secretary Driscoll"s meeting with Russian officials in Abu Dhabi.
