A futuristic transport system could soon make trips between Abu Dhabi and Dubai faster and more affordable. The Seaglider, an innovative electric vehicle, promises to cut travel time between the two cities to just 30 minutes — at a cost of around AED 165. That’s quicker than a helicopter and cheaper than a taxi.
The Seaglider is an all-electric vehicle designed for coastal travel. It moves like a boat at low speeds but takes off above the water once it gains momentum. It can reach speeds of up to 290 km/h while flying just above the water’s surface, reducing drag and avoiding waves.
This high-tech transport solution is being developed by American start-up Regent Craft. CEO Billy Thalheimer introduced the concept at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on February 11. According to Regent Craft, the Seaglider could be operational within the next two years.
A survey by Regent found that interest in the Seaglider is higher in the UAE than in other countries. Around 98% of UAE respondents supported the idea, compared to 86% globally. Given that 85% of the UAE’s population lives along the coast and many people frequently travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, this technology could be a game-changer for the region.
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The Seaglider isn’t the only futuristic travel option coming to the UAE. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recently announced plans for a high-speed train and a Dubai rail bus. Flying taxis are also set to launch in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the coming years, and you can see their prototypes in the Museum of the Future.
With these innovations on the horizon, travel between the UAE’s major cities is about to become faster, more efficient, and more sustainable than ever before.
