The Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC) has signed an agreement with Elon Musk’s The Boring Company to explore the feasibility of developing an underground transport network and using advanced tunnels in the emirate’s infrastructure.

The partnership will assess the potential use of underground tunnels for transport, utility services and other infrastructure developments in Abu Dhabi. The two parties will also evaluate potential projects, construction methods and operating models.

Under the agreement, the parties will examine how underground infrastructure could improve connectivity between different areas of Abu Dhabi, enhance the sustainability and reliability of urban infrastructure, and support future development plans.

The partnership also aims to establish Abu Dhabi as a regional hub for advanced tunnelling technologies. The two parties will explore ways to develop specialised skills and strengthen the technical expertise of the local workforce.

The agreement was signed during the Abu Dhabi Liveability and Investment Exhibition (LIVEX 2026) by Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre, and Steve Davis, President of The Boring Company.

Despite the agreement, no specific project to build an underground transport network in Abu Dhabi has yet been officially confirmed. However, the partnership could mark an important step towards developing innovative mobility solutions and transforming the emirate’s transport infrastructure.

Expanding transport options in the UAE

In another development in the UAE’s transport sector, Etihad Rail launched passenger services to Fujairah in June and to Dubai in September after months of anticipation, according to the report.

By connecting different parts of the country, the services provide a new option for intercity travel in the UAE, allowing passengers to travel between cities without relying on private vehicles.

The expansion of the rail network could also support domestic tourism while reducing travel times and costs. Routes, ticket prices, train schedules and booking methods are among the key areas of interest for passengers using the network.