The Viability and Contribution of High-Speed Rail to the Economic Growth and Social Development

Abstract

The United Arab Emirates, located in the southwest of Asia, and Abu Dhabi, is the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The emirate comprises a total area of 87% of the UAE. In 2009, The Department of Transport (DoT) announced the Surface Master Plan: A vision for connecting Abu Dhabi in 2030. One of the significant economic objectives of the master plan is to boost economic competitiveness through effective freight and passengers transport services. The rapid development and growth in the emirate will result in a considerable increase in freight movement. Thus, investing in high-speed rail (HSR) projects is crucial to achieving the vision objectives. This study seeks to assess the impact of the Etihad High-Speed Rail (ER) project on the economy and sociability in the United Arab Emirates. In addition, the study will review the HSR project’s impact from different studies across the world. The aim will be to synthesize the current knowledge on the subject and draw on the best conditions in which the country can invest in HSR extensions and new projects.