Etihad Rail to Launch UAE Passenger Train Services from June 30, Full Network Rollout Begins
Etihad Rail has announced the launch of the first phase of its long-awaited passenger rail services, with operations between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah set to begin on June 30, 2026, marking a major milestone in the development of the UAE’s national transportation network.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the new passenger train station in Mohammed bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi, by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
First Passenger Route to Connect Abu Dhabi and Fujairah
The initial phase of passenger operations will connect Abu Dhabi and Fujairah with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering travelers a fast and efficient alternative to road transport.
The launch represents the first stage of a broader nationwide passenger rail network that will connect major cities and regions across the UAE through a phased rollout.
Nationwide Expansion Planned Through 2027
Following the commencement of services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, Etihad Rail will continue expanding the network over the coming months.
According to the announced schedule:
- June 30, 2026: Passenger services begin between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
- September 30, 2026: Dubai and Al Dhaid stations become operational.
- December 30, 2026: Passenger services expand to stations in the Al Dhafra region.
- March 30, 2027: Sharjah station joins the network, completing the planned route.
The phased rollout is designed to gradually integrate key urban centers and regional destinations into the national rail system.
Ticket Sales Begin June 23
Etihad Rail confirmed that ticket bookings will open on June 23, 2026, through the company's mobile application and official website.
For the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route, fares will start at:
- Dh55 for Comfort Class
- Dh120 for Premium Class
The passenger fleet will initially comprise 13 trains, each capable of accommodating up to 400 passengers, providing significant transport capacity as demand grows.
The service is expected to cater to commuters, tourists, business travelers, and residents seeking reliable intercity transportation options.
Major Milestone for UAE Infrastructure
The launch comes less than five years after the UAE unveiled the National Railway Program as part of the country's "Projects of the 50" initiative in 2021.
The passenger rail project has been one of the flagship components of the national infrastructure strategy, aimed at enhancing connectivity, supporting economic growth, and providing sustainable transportation alternatives.
Officials highlighted that the completion of the first phase ahead of long-term expectations demonstrates the UAE's ability to execute large-scale infrastructure projects efficiently while transforming strategic national visions into operational realities.
Economic and Social Benefits
The passenger rail network is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits across the country, including:
- Faster and more efficient inter-emirate travel
- Reduced road congestion
- Enhanced connectivity between major cities and regional destinations
- Increased tourism and business mobility
- Improved sustainability through public transportation alternatives
The railway is also anticipated to support economic activity by creating stronger links between residential communities, commercial centers, and industrial hubs.
Transforming Travel Across the UAE
The launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger services marks a significant step in the evolution of the UAE’s transport ecosystem.
Once fully operational, the network will connect key destinations across the country, offering residents and visitors a modern, efficient, and sustainable mode of travel while supporting the UAE’s broader goals of economic diversification, smart mobility, and infrastructure development.
With ticket sales now open and the first trains set to depart on June 30, the UAE is entering a new era of rail travel that promises to reshape how people move between the nation’s emirates.
