Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has confirmed that it is confidently progressing toward launching passenger services by 2026, supporting the UAE’s vision for an integrated, safe, and efficient rail system.
The network aims to enhance connectivity between cities and communities while delivering services that meet international passenger standards.
Azza Alsuwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, told Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the opening of the second edition of the Global Rail 2025 exhibition and conference for railways, transport, and infrastructure in Abu Dhabi today that Etihad Rail is building strategic partnerships to ensure smooth and connected journeys through integrated first- and last-mile solutions, in cooperation with local transport providers, municipalities, and technology platforms.
She explained that the company is developing a world-class passenger experience that combines comfort, reliability, and affordability, while adopting a “digital tickets first” approach. She noted that the rail network will feature routes fully separated from roads, enhancing safety by eliminating collision risks.
She added that the passenger service will provide accurate and reliable timetables, with travel times of 57 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, 105 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, and 70 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Ruwais. Onboard, passengers will have dedicated spaces for work, reading, or relaxation, allowing them to choose the best way to spend their journey.
She pointed out that the trains are designed to accommodate 400 passengers per train, with multiple daily trips, boosting capacity to transport individuals, families, and groups efficiently.
Planning stations is a key focus to ensure an integrated and accessible network. Passenger services will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE—from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east—covering Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.
Alsuwaidi reaffirmed the company’s commitment to launching passenger services by 2026, with quality, safety, and reliability at the core of every stage of implementation.
Regarding the high-speed rail, she noted it will link Abu Dhabi and Dubai at speeds up to 350 km/h, reducing travel time to just 30 minutes. The project is expected to contribute around AED 145 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next 50 years, further establishing the country as a leader in next-generation rail infrastructure.
(Inputs from WAM)
