First Hyperloop in Middle East or India seen by 2024-25
abu dhabi — Virgin Hyperloop One will transform the Middle East. Figure this: It can connect all GCC cities within an hour, could operate completely unplugged from the grid with zero-direct emissions and will be most-energy efficient means of transportation — all the aspects of which fall in line with vision of the UAE.
While it is believed that India will be the first country to host the world’s first Hyperloop, there is a decent chance that Middle Eastern countries may do so before, Virgin Hyperloop One managing director for the Middle East and India Harj Dhaliwal told Khaleej Times.
“We are working here in the UAE, the US, Saudi Arabia and India. My view is that India will be the first operation for Hyperloop. India is more advanced than the Middle East now. But the Middle East has a tendency to move decisions very quickly. It’s difficult to say who will be first but certainly by 2024 or 2025 there will be an operational Hyperloop,” Dhaliwal said on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
He said Hyperloop will “revolutionise” the Gulf region as cities will be connected in minutes — not hours — thereby leveraging resources to grow together.
“Our vision is to connect the GCC. The whole of the GCC works as one economic zone. With the ability to go from Abu Dhabi to Riyadh in 48 minutes, and Riyadh to Jeddah in 46 minutes, and from there to Neom in 40 minutes, Hyperloop would just revolutionise this region.”
Dhaliwal underlined that Hyperloop can be powered by a zero-emission network, completely unplugged from the grid and is the most efficient mode of transport.
“We are trying to be energy-neutral, which means using renewable sources like solar and advanced photovoltaics technology,” he said.