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The UAE is set to revolutionize domestic travel with the launch of its Etihad Rail passenger service in 2026, promising fast, comfortable journeys connecting key cities across the country. A recent firsthand experience shared by UAE resident and destination marketer Sarah Luqman offers an exclusive look inside the train and highlights what passengers can expect.

Sarah, a member of the National Experts' Programme (NEP), recently traveled on the train from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, capturing her trip on video which quickly gained viral attention. She described the journey as “nothing short of exceptional,” praising the seamless comfort, world-class service, and breathtaking views of the UAE’s diverse landscapes.

The Etihad Rail passenger train will have a capacity of approximately 400 people, featuring both business and economy class compartments. Inside, light grey seats are arranged in clusters of four with tables in between, complemented by overhead luggage racks. A digital screen inside the train displays the route, current speed, time, and outside temperature for passenger convenience.

Travel times are expected to be impressively efficient:

• Abu Dhabi to Dubai: approximately 57 minutes

• Abu Dhabi to Fujairah: around 100 minutes

• Abu Dhabi to Ruwais: about 70 minutes

In addition to the comfortable interiors, passengers will enjoy spectacular scenery along the route. From desert landscapes to lush greenery and landmarks, the journey offers views that are not typically accessible by car. Engineer Kholoud Al Mazrouei noted that highlights include the Almaha forests and the natural beauty of Fujairah.

The train also features branding from ADNOC Oasis, though it is not yet confirmed if onboard convenience stores will serve their signature food and drinks.

The Etihad Rail project continues to develop with support from the UAE leadership. Last year, Sultan Al Jaber and ADNOC’s leadership took the first official passenger journey from Abu Dhabi to Al Dhannah to review ongoing projects.

Efforts are also underway to improve rail infrastructure. Recently, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with Etihad Rail, opened a three-lane flyover on Al Yalayis Street to separate train movements from road traffic, ensuring smoother and safer train operations.

With the launch just over a year away, the Etihad Rail passenger service promises to be a transformative step toward a sustainable, interconnected future for the UAE.

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