From Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 30 Minutes: A New Era of Transportation

In the coming years, traveling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will become not only faster but also more affordable. The new Seaglider transport system, reminiscent of futuristic technology, promises to complete the journey in just 30 minutes for Dhs165.

What is Seaglider?

Seaglider is a fully electric vehicle that combines the speed of an aircraft with the accessibility of a watercraft. Designed specifically for travel between coastal cities, it offers an eco-friendly alternative to helicopters and taxis.

Seaglider operates in three stages:

Docking Mode – picking up and dropping off passengers and cargo at low speed.
Water Surface Mode – reducing drag and preparing for flight.
Flight Mode – flying low over open waters at speeds of up to 180 mph, maintaining a height within one wingspan of the water’s surface.

When Will It Launch?

The Seaglider is being developed by the American company Regent Craft, and its CEO Billy Thalheimer presented the project at the World Governments Summit in Dubai.

Interest in this innovative transport is exceptionally high in the UAE: 98% of respondents in the country supported the idea, compared to 86% globally. Given that 85% of the UAE’s population lives along the coast, Seaglider could become an ideal solution for fast and efficient travel between major cities.

Prototypes are currently being tested, and the first commercial flights are expected to launch within two years.

The Future of Transport in the UAE

Seaglider is not the only upcoming innovation in UAE’s transportation sector. In 2024, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) signed an agreement to develop this mode of transport. Additionally, flying taxis are expected to launch soon in Abu Dhabi, further revolutionizing urban mobility.

This new technology aims to make travel faster, more convenient, and environmentally friendly, marking a new chapter in the evolution of the UAE’s transport system.