Construction work on the first hyperloop transport system will begin next summer in Abu Dhabi, the company behind the project said on Wednesday.

Hyperloop Transportation Technologies said it would build a commercial line on the border of Abu Dhabi and Dubai at developer Aldar’s Seih Al Sderieh landbank, close to the Expo 2020 site and Al Maktoum International Airport.

The company has yet to outline the exact route and the location of the terminals, but the line would be close to a major new housing development around the existing commuter town of Al Ghadeer.

“We are bringing the future of rapid transportation technology to all those living in the UAE,” said HyperloopTT chairman Bibop Gresta.

“Today’s announcement is a testament to the continued commitment and determination of all our partners, both within the UAE and abroad. As we move forward with the system we invite other interested organisations in the region and around the world to join us in making history.”

On Wednesday HTT appointed design and engineering firm Dar Al Handasah to assist in bringing the Abu Dhabi commercial system to reality.

Dar Al Handasah’s team includes Dar Group members and architects Perkins+Will, American engineering firm TY Lin International, Spanish engineers GPO Group and British cost management company Currie & Brown.

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Construction of the Hyperloop commercial track as well as HyperloopTT’s XO Square Innovation Centre and Hyperloop Experience Centre is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2019.

Roy Cooper / The National

“With today’s announcement of the appointment of Dar Al Handasah, Perkins+Wills, and Currie & Brown, we have achieved a significant milestone towards the construction of the world’s first commercial Hyperloop system in Alghadeer,” said HyperloopTT chief executive Dirk Ahlborn.

“We are looking forward to working with all of our regional stakeholders to build this historic piece of transportation infrastructure.”