Hyperloop plans centre on Abu Dhabi-Dubai border

By Eudore R. Chand

ABU DHABI 19 April 2018: Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HyperloopTT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with Aldar Properties.

The MoU that will enable the development of a new urban centre within Aldar’s Seih Al Sdeirah landbank and in close proximity to Alghadeer.

The MoU, when fully executed, will allow for the creation of a new HyperloopTT centre including; a full scale commercial Hyperloop system, an Hyperloop R&D Advanced Mobility Centre, a Demonstration and Visitor Centre, and an Innovation Hub, said Wam.

Proposed GCC Hyperloop One network

HyperloopTT future plans include construction of the line in several phases starting within the ten kilometre allocation, with further development aimed at creating a commercial Hyperloop network across the Emirates and beyond.

Commenting on the MoU signing, Talal Al Dhiyebi, CEO of Aldar Properties, said, “We are delighted to be working with HyperloopTT as they look to bring one of the world’s most revolutionary transportation technologies to Abu Dhabi. Alghadeer sits at such a strategic point within the UAE – close to major growth areas of both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, that it makes sense to pair it with rapid transport opportunities. We believe that Hyperloop technology can have a major positive impact on the lives of all of those living within our communities, and we look forward to this possibility becoming a reality.”

Pod in the dock: Courtesy Hyperloop

“This agreement creates the basis for the first commercial Hyperloop system in the world here in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” said Bibop Gresta, Chairman of HyperloopTT. “With regulatory support, we hope the first section will be operational in time for Expo 2020 Dubai.”

Also commenting, “A forward-thinking nation like the UAE is ideal for building the most revolutionary, most efficient, and fastest transportation system in the world,” said Dirk Ahlborn, CEO of HyperloopTT. “With this agreement in Abu Dhabi, we take a big step towards the world’s first commercial hyperloop system.”