The UAE’s ambitious Etihad Rail project will launch its first passenger train service in 2026, marking a significant upgrade to the nation’s transport infrastructure. The announcement came during a meeting between Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Etihad Rail representatives at Al Dhanna Palace.
Though the exact launch date hasn’t been announced, once operational, the service is expected to carry around 36.5 million passengers annually.
Connecting 11 Cities Across All Emirates
The railway will cover 1,200 km, linking 11 cities and regions across all seven emirates. These include:
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Sharjah
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Fujairah
- Al Ain
- Ruwais
- Al Mirfa
- Al Dhaid
- Ghuweifat (on the Saudi border)
- Sohar (Oman, via Hafeet Rail project)
The network aims to cut travel times, promote sustainable transport, and support nationwide connectivity.
Confirmed Passenger Station Locations
Two confirmed station locations are:
- Sakamkam, Fujairah
- University City, Sharjah
Other likely stations include:
- Near Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro, Dubai
- Along the pipeline corridor in Abu Dhabi, between Dalma Mall and Mussafah Bus Station
Abu Dhabi–Dubai High-Speed Line
A high-speed electric rail will connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai via six major stops:
- Reem Island
- Yas Island
- Saadiyat Island
- Zayed International Airport
- Al Maktoum Airport (Dubai)
- Jaddaf, near Dubai Creek
This line will allow 30-minute travel between the two cities, reaching speeds of 350 km/h.
Fast Connections Across the UAE
The main Etihad Rail passenger service will run at 200 km/h, offering quick commutes:
- Abu Dhabi to Dubai: ~57 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Ruwais: ~70 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Fujairah: ~105 minutes
- Dubai to Fujairah: ~50 minutes
Luxury on Rails
Each train will carry over 400 passengers across first, business, and economy classes. Features include:
- Free WiFi
- Infotainment systems
- Charging ports
- Generous legroom
- Smart air-conditioning
Carriages will have aerodynamic designs and flight-style 2+2 seating, with real-time travel information shown on screens.
Scenic Journeys Through the UAE
The route will pass through mountains, deserts, and urban centers, offering picturesque views of:
- Fujairah’s rugged landscapes
- The Liwa desert oasis, near Mezeiraa Station
- Cosmopolitan skylines of Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Door-to-Door Connectivity
Etihad Rail plans a door-to-door service, integrating with other public transport and ride-sharing options to ensure smooth transfers from stations to homes, workplaces, or tourist destinations.
Nol Cards for Rail Travel
Dubai’s nol cards will be compatible with Etihad Rail’s ticketing system, offering a unified fare payment experience across multiple modes of transport.
Backed by Global Expertise
Etihad Rail has partnered with international leaders like:
- SNCF International
- Alstom
- Progress Rail
- Thales Group
These collaborations will support advanced ticketing, real-time passenger flow monitoring, and intelligent traffic management.
A Vision for Smart, Sustainable Travel
Etihad Rail represents more than just transportation — it’s part of the UAE’s vision for modern, connected, and sustainable urban living, transforming how people move across the region.
