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Middle East Tech Enthusiasts Prepare For Step Conference 2023

The highly-anticipated 11th edition of the popular tech festival takes place in Dubai Internet City between February 22nd-23rd, 2023.

Published

2 years ago

January 25, 2023

Nour Nasir

middle east tech enthusiasts prepare for step conference 2023

Step Conference is a much-anticipated event in the calendar of every tech enthusiast and startup visionary in the Middle East. This year, the event is set to return to Dubai with a retro-futurism-themed lineup of events. From the DTC Hub and 1-on-1 investor meetings to major tech reveals, workshops, and entertainment, the expo is shaping up to be a highlight of this year’s conference circuit.

As well as offering the opportunity to mix with top entrepreneurs and gain insights from industry leaders, Step Conference will explore the latest trends across 6 content tracks:

Learn from global influencers in the tech and startup scene with the Start Track, covering success stories, growth, fundraising, and more.
Dive into the latest financial technology trends with the Fintech Track, including blockchain, digital currencies, and cashless payments.
Explore the future of transport, smart cities, and AI with the Future Track, featuring industry leaders in autonomous tech.
Uncover the latest trends in digital marketing, advertising tech, and more with the Digital Track.
Discover the latest lifestyle and well-being tech with the Wellness Track.
Join the Earth Track to explore Greentech, sustainability, and environmental impact.

As well as a packed schedule of events, Step 2023 hosts a packed lineup of industry leaders and innovators. This year’s roster of speakers includes representatives from Morning Brew, Pattern, Velocity Global, and Hotjar.

If you’re a budding startup entrepreneur or simply want to hear about the latest from the world of technology, don’t miss out on Step Conference 2023. Tickets are still available through the official website, where entering code DSC-FZM3 will help you out with a special Early Bird price!

News

UAE’s Etihad Rail Launches In 2026 — What You Need To Know

A 1,200 km passenger network will transform public transport, with 11 connected cities, and high-speed trains cutting inter-emirate travel times.

Published

1 day ago

May 19, 2025

Nour Nasir

Etihad Rail

Etihad Rail has confirmed that its long-anticipated passenger train service will officially launch in 2026, ushering in a new era of high-speed, inter-emirate travel. The UAE’s national railway developer shared the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), as work continues on a 1,200 km passenger network set to connect 11 cities across all seven emirates.

The news marks a major leap in public transportation for the country, with passenger trains designed to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. Travel times will be significantly reduced — Abu Dhabi to Dubai is expected to take just under an hour, while the journey to Fujairah will be cut to around 105 minutes. A separate high-speed line, capable of reaching 350 km/h, is also in the works to link Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes.

The backbone of the network was completed in 2023, when Etihad Rail launched its 900 km freight service linking key industrial and logistics hubs across the UAE, including ports in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah. Now, the focus has shifted to passenger infrastructure.

The first station will be located in Sakamkam, Fujairah city centre, and a second is confirmed near University City in Sharjah. Dubai’s main station is expected to be adjacent to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, while Abu Dhabi’s is anticipated along the corridor separating Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.

Also Read: UGREEN Nexode Pro Review: Portable Yet Powerful Chargers

Once completed, the passenger network will link cities including Al Sila, Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Integration with Oman is also part of the long-term vision. A new cross-border project — Hafeet Rail — will span 303 km between Sohar and Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba area. Developed by Etihad Rail in collaboration with Oman Rail and Mubadala, the link is expected to deepen trade and tourism ties between the two countries.

Etihad Rail’s passenger trains will carry up to 400 passengers each and feature Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, charging points, and onboard food and beverage options to ensure a comfortable experience. To further simplify access, passengers will be able to pay with their nol cards, thanks to a partnership between Etihad Rail and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The collaboration aims to integrate fare payments and booking systems under one unified platform.