The UAE is poised to enter a new era of transportation as Etihad Rail prepares to launch its long-awaited passenger rail services, creating the country’s first nationwide passenger train network.
Passenger operations will officially begin on June 30, 2026, with the inaugural route connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Both Emirates are distant by 250 km from each other. The launch marks a major milestone for one of the Gulf region’s most ambitious infrastructure projects and is expected to transform travel across the Emirates.
The first phase will offer travelers a faster and more sustainable alternative to driving, linking key cities and regions through a modern rail network designed to support both residents and visitors. Ticket sales have already opened, with introductory fares starting from AED 55 (USD15).
Etihad Rail’s passenger trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, significantly reducing journey times between major destinations. Once the wider network is fully operational, passengers will be able to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in approximately 57 minutes, while the trip between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah is expected to take around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
The passenger rollout will take place in stages. Following the launch of the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah service, stations in Dubai and Al Dhaid are scheduled to open on September 30, 2026. Additional stations in the Al Dhafra region will join the network by the end of December, while Sharjah is expected to be connected by March 2027.
While Etihad Rail has yet to release detailed timetables, the operator says passenger trains will run multiple daily services on fixed schedules. The 13-train fleet, with capacity for up to 400 passengers per train, is designed to provide frequent intercity connections across the UAE’s growing rail network.
When completed, the Etihad Rail passenger network will indeed link 11 cities and regions across all seven emirates, providing seamless connectivity throughout the country. The project is expected to enhance tourism by making it easier for visitors to explore multiple destinations during a single trip.
For the travel industry, the launch creates new opportunities for rail-inclusive vacation packages, multi-city itineraries, and airport-to-city connections. It also aligns with the UAE’s broader sustainability goals by encouraging travelers to shift from private vehicles to public transportation.
