Transportation is constantly evolving in the UAE. Recently, high speed electric sky pods were tested in Sharjah for the first time. And now, we hear that commuters can soon travel in a flying ferry from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. How cool does that sound! Boston start-up company Regent is the brain behind the concept. Read on to find out how this will work.
We’re looking to the future of ferry travel, with a concept for a high-speed all-electric ‘flying ferry'. It’s a craft that foils like hydrofoil and flies like a plane – all with the comfort & convenience of a ferry. Find out more about our vision here ➡️ https://t.co/MNTg38oL0t pic.twitter.com/rrl00RBZiR
— Brittany Ferries (@BrittanyFerries) June 15, 2021
The Seaglider Will Take Off From The Sea & Can Reach Speeds Of 290 km per hour
Flying ferries will soon become reality in the UAE. Regent, a Boston-based company is set to develop electric-powered Seaglider to connect coastal cities, thereby redefining the transport system. Regent’s Seaglider is a craft that foils like hydrofoil and flies like a plane – all with the comfort and convenience of a ferry. The ferry will be well equipped to tide over high waves. The vessel will be fitted in an intermediary position between boat and glider, which allows it to navigate busy waterways and harsh weather.
The Seaglider will take off at a low speed using the water as a runway. The vessel can then fly reaching a speed of 290 kilometres per hour. Ferry routes are expected to be developed between Dubai to Abu Dhabi, New York to Washington, DC as well as the UK to France.
And this is not the only invention in UAE’s transport service. Recently, passengers travelled in high speed electric sky pods for the first time in Sharjah.
Sky Pods Will Hit The UAE Skies In September 2023
The new sky pods will transport cargo and passengers between key points across cities. The unicars or the urban light skypods is expected to accommodate 2-14 passengers per pod. The cargo version will be able to deliver 12-metre containers at high speed. This could in turn, take heavy goods vehicles off roads and into the sky.
The development of the sky pod is less invasive and does not require demolition of natural resources or homes. The pods are designed to move independently, and function on a pulley system of a cable car that limits speed to around 12-15kph.
Once completed, there will be a longer test track in Sharjah stretching across 2.4km. This will be supported with eight interspaced steel support structures andconcrete structures acting as anchors at each end. Besides, the pods aren’t just another means of transport, but also function as an ecological solution. The pods’ carbon footprint is much lower than regular trains. The service is expected to open as early as September 2023.
You Can Soon Travel From Dubai To Abu Dhabi By Train
Etihad Rail plans to link Dubai and Abu Dhabi via a 1200km train track. Passengers will also enjoy additional stops in Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The first phase of the operation kicked off in 2016 and covers Al Dhafra to Abu Dhabi. As per reports, the second stage is well under progress too and has extended over an impressive 605 kilometres.
Etihad Rail said: “Once fully established, the passenger network will connect principal centres of population within the UAE, and subsequently other neighboring GCC countries, offering a safer, more efficient, more comfortable and more environmentally friendly mode of transport.”
The initial services are being used for transporting cargo. So, get set for day trips to Abu Dhabi or further afield! Meanwhile, here are Top 5 attractions to visit in Abu Dhabi.