News

Virgin Hyperloop Concept Video Provides A Peek At The Future Of Transportation

Published

6 years ago

February 2, 2021

If the idea of traveling at speeds up to 670 mph while sitting inside a futuristic pod propelled by strong electromagnets through an airless tube sounds like a cool sci-fi concept to you, then you should watch the latest video published by Virgin Hyperloop.

The video shows how the Hyperloop concept, which was first proposed in 2013 by Elon Musk, might enable a faster, greener, and more cost-efficient mode of travel in a not-so-distant future — at least in the United Arab Emirates.

Unlike many existing train stations, the one from which the passengers in the video board their pods is clean, bright, and inviting. The pods themselves echo the same optimistic vision of the future, where traditional materials and high-end technology work in unison to create a more pleasant transportation experience.

Every passenger seat is equipped with wireless charging, and translucent LCD screens that double as dividers between individual rows of seats show the remaining travel time and current speed. Smaller info displays inform passengers about Wi-Fi and toilet availability, both of which are guaranteed to come in handy during longer trips.

When will first passengers be able to enjoy this exciting new mode of transportation? Sometime in 2030, most likely. Virgin Hyperloop, which receives financial backing from Dubai’s regime-backed DP World, must first receive its safety certification before it is allowed to operate in the United Arab Emirates.

So far, Virgin Hyperloop has successfully completed its first passenger test, during which the pod accelerated to around 100 mph. That’s a fairly impressive speed, but there’s no denying that the company has a long way to go before it hits 670 mph.

Also Read: Netflix Is Introducing Sleep Timer Functionality On Android

When it does, its Hyperloop system could be a game-changer for all people who commute long-distances on a regular basis. Jay Walder, CEO of Virgin Hyperloop, said that the company’s Hyperloop system must be affordable for people to use. As such, prices should be much closer to driving than flying thanks to the fact that multiple pods (each carrying up to 28 passengers) can travel inside the same tube mere milliseconds apart.

Related Topics:United Arab Emirates Virgin Hyperloop

Up Next

Amazon Launches Its Prime Membership Program In Saudi Arabia

Don't Miss

Netflix Is Introducing Sleep Timer Functionality On Android

Click to comment

News

Qatar Folds 45 State Companies Into A Single Investment Platform

Doha Investment names AI, manufacturing and healthcare among its priorities – and pitches a state-owned vehicle as a boost for private enterprise.

Published

3 days ago

September 22, 2026

Dana Saadeh

qatar folds 45 state companies into a single investment platform

The Qatar Investment Authority has spent two decades deploying Qatari wealth at home and abroad, and now its domestic holdings have a vehicle of their own.

Qatar has placed 45 state-owned companies under a new platform, Doha Investment, as it seeks to accelerate its next phase of economic growth. Wholly owned by the QIA, the platform will run the sovereign wealth fund’s domestic portfolio under its own mandate and board, with artificial intelligence, advanced technology, manufacturing and healthcare among its priorities.

Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani announced the plans on Sunday at a special edition of the Qatar Economic Forum in New York. “Through this platform, we aim to expand the role of the private sector in driving Qatar’s economic growth,” he said, adding that it would also deepen capital markets and bring in new international capital and expertise.

The companies operate across more than 80 markets and include Qatar Airways, QNB, Ooredoo, Qatari Diar, Katara Hospitality and Hassad Food. Together they span finance, transport and logistics, telecoms and technology, real estate, hospitality, food and agriculture. Aside from those familiar national names, other companies the platform will target include those operating in advanced technology, manufacturing, supply chains and healthcare.

Qai, Qatar’s national AI platform, set up to support the deployment of AI across businesses and wider society, is also included in the portfolio.

Also Read: OKX Bets Streaming Perks Can Take Crypto Mainstream Across MENA

Sheikh Faisal bin Thani Al Thani, the minister of commerce and industry, will serve as managing director and vice-chairman. He described the step as a consolidation rather than a new creation, one under consideration for more than a decade. “Strong economies are built company by company,” he said. “Doha Investment will be an active, long-term partner to the businesses in its portfolio, working alongside management teams to unlock new sources of value and support their growth and competitiveness in the region and internationally”.

The platform forms part of Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy, which aims to make the private sector a primary driver of a more sustainable and diversified economy. The QIA manages about $580 billion in assets, according to Global SWF.