UAE Launches First National Passenger Rail Service as Etihad Rail Welcomes First Paying Passengers
The UAE marked a historic milestone in its transportation sector on Tuesday as Etihad Rail officially launched the country's first national passenger rail service, welcoming its first paying passengers aboard the inaugural scheduled journey from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi.
The first train departed Fujairah Station at 5:34 am, arriving at Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi at 7:19 am, officially commencing scheduled passenger rail operations and ushering in a new era of integrated public transport across the UAE.
The launch has generated strong public interest, with more than 10,000 tickets sold before operations began. As part of its introductory phase, Etihad Rail is operating six passenger services on the opening day, providing travellers with a safe, reliable, and comfortable alternative for travel between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi.
Passengers on the inaugural services experienced a range of modern onboard amenities, including guaranteed seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, generous luggage allowances, and Premium Class services designed to enhance comfort and convenience.
To ensure seamless end-to-end travel, Etihad Rail announced that it is working closely with the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) to integrate rail services with Abu Dhabi's wider public transportation network. The partnership enables passengers to easily connect with buses, taxis, and other mobility services, creating a fully integrated transport ecosystem.
Azza Alsuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer of Etihad Rail, described the launch as the beginning of a new chapter in the nation's infrastructure journey.
"Every great piece of national infrastructure has two beginnings: the day it is built, and the day people begin making it their own. Today, with the support and guidance of our wise leadership, we embark on that second beginning.
"The first departure from Fujairah this morning is the moment a national vision becomes part of everyday life, giving people a new way to connect with one another, with opportunity and with the places that make our country so unique.
"Years from now, today's passengers will be able to say they were there at the very beginning."
Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, highlighted the importance of multimodal connectivity in enhancing the passenger experience.
"The journey doesn't end when passengers step off the train. It continues all the way to their final destination.
"That is why our partnership with Etihad Rail is so important. Together, we have integrated passenger rail with Abu Dhabi's wider public transport network, making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to continue their journeys using buses, taxis and other mobility services. Another important step towards delivering a smarter, more connected and more sustainable transport system that offers people greater choice while supporting Abu Dhabi's long-term mobility vision."
The launch of the national passenger rail service represents a major milestone in the UAE's long-term vision to develop sustainable, efficient, and interconnected transport infrastructure. By linking key emirates through high-quality rail services and integrating them with existing public transport systems, Etihad Rail aims to provide residents and visitors with a convenient new mode of travel while supporting the country's broader economic and environmental goals.
Customers can book tickets for the passenger rail service through the Etihad Rail website and mobile application.
