The airline company is hoping to bring a new golden age of rail travel to the UAE, having joined forces with the Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale to launch the ambitious project.

Shadi Malak, the chief executive of Etihad Rail, said in a statement: "Our collaboration with Arsenale is a testament to Etihad Rail’s commitment to drive economic and social growth in the UAE through the National Rail Network.

"By establishing a luxury train experience, we are introducing a unique world-class offering to the region and contributing to boosting the tourism sector in the UAE.

"Furthermore, we will be able to showcase the country’s diverse heritage and beauty to visitors from around the world."

The luxury service will connect different parts of the UAE and the train will consist of 15 luxury carriages.

Paolo Barletta, the chief executive of Arsenale, is also "thrilled" to be working with Etihad.

Paolo said: "We are thrilled to work together with Etihad Rail on this ground-breaking project that will promote the discovery of a magical and exciting territory outside of the renowned destinations of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

"Railway cruising is the future of tourism and Arsenale wants to make it available in the world’s most beautiful places, introducing this fascinating and sustainable new way of traveling.

"We are delighted to announce that UAE will be one of the first countries in the world to launch this unique service with us. I want to thank Etihad Rail for believing in this project since the beginning. With this signing, we are ready to work tirelessly to enable travelers to soon come on board of our train, discovering the enchanting natural wonders of UAE."