The UAE's long-awaited passenger rail network finally has a launch date. Etihad Rail has announced when services will begin, how much tickets will cost and when key stations across the country will open, bringing the prospect of travelling between emirates by train a step closer to reality.
When will Etihad Rail passenger services launch?
An introductory operational phase between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will begin on 30 June 2026.
The wider passenger rail network will officially launch on 30 September 2026 with the opening of Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station.
Additional stations in Al Dhafra will open on 30 December 2026, while the network will be completed with the opening of Sharjah Train Station on 30 March 2027.
How to book Etihad Rail tickets and how much do they cost?
Fares on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route will start from AED55 for Comfort Class and AED120 for Premium Class.
Tickets can be purchased from 23 June 2026 through the Etihad Rail mobile app and official website: https://www.etihadrail.ae/
What is the Etihad Rail project?
Etihad Rail is constructing a 1,200km railway network, known as the UAE National Railway Network. Nearing completion, it will connect the cities within the United Arab Emirates and also with other parts of the Middle East. It snakes all the way across the country from the Saudi border in the west to the Indian Ocean coast, with further plans to extend it into Oman.
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The development is part of the UAE National Railways Programme, which is the UAE’s largest land rail network of its kind, and Etihad Rail is investing Dh1.99bn ($541.7m) to create passenger transport services on the line. It is also a vital part of the $100bn Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) rail network, which connects the UAE with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman.
Much of the infrastructure for the railway is already complete, and it has been carrying freight transport since last year. Nine tunnels, totalling 6.5km in length, and 593 bridges have been built to realise the project – a challenging build that traverses a wide range of different terrains. As a freight facility, it connects ports, industrial areas and major cities with important sources of raw materials.
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What is the Etihad Rail Route? Where will it go?
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Etihad Rail connects 11 cities and regions, from Al Sila in the west to the port of Fujairah in the east, taking in Abu Dhabi, Khalifa, Dubai and Sharjah along the way. During the introductory operational phase, passengers will be able to travel between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in just one hour and 45 minutes.
How fast is Etihad Rail?
Etihad Rail passenger trains will travel at a maximum speed of 200 kph – which is pretty fast, but still some way behind the world’s fastest express trains. To put it in perspective, the Shanghai Maglev in China travels at 460 kph. Still, passengers can expect super-convenient travel times, and will be able to zip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in just 50 minutes. Etihad Rail says that current commute times will be reduced by 30 to 40 per cent compared to other forms of transport.
Where Are the Etihad Rail Stations?
The first passenger station to open is the Mohammed Bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi, which was inaugurated by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in June 2026.
Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station will open on 30 September 2026, followed by Al Dhafra stations on 30 December 2026 and Sharjah Train Station on 30 March 2027.
What will the passenger experience be like?
The fleet comprises 13 passenger trains, each with a capacity for up to 400 passengers. Designed by Spanish firm CAF, with seats fashioned for a high level of comfort and plenty of legroom. Travellers will be able to choose from first class, business class and economy zones, and there will be lots of amenities on offer, including entertainment systems, charging stations and WiFi, a food and drinks menu, and an advanced air-conditioning system. The goal is to ensure that the service suits everyone, from commuters to tourists.
Etihad Rail has also teamed up with Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale to create a more high-end, 15-carriage service on certain routes, which is expected to have a sophisticated, Orient Express-style ambience.
How sustainable will Etihad Rail be?
The service promises to make travel in the UAE greener by reducing the need for road travel – both in terms of passenger and freight traffic. Etihad Rail says that by 2050, the National Rail Network will reduce road transport C02 emissions by 21 per cent, with one train trip removing 300 trucks from the roads.
Here's a quick guide to the key details announced so far.
Frequently Asked Questions About Etihad Rail
When does Etihad Rail open?
30 June 2026.
When do Etihad Rail tickets go on sale?
23 June 2026.
How much are Etihad Rail tickets?
AED55 for Comfort Class and AED120 for Premium Class on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route.
How long is the Abu Dhabi to Fujairah train journey?
One hour and 45 minutes.
Where is the first Etihad Rail station?
Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi.
When will the Dubai Train Station open?
30 September 2026.
Can I book Etihad Rail tickets online?
Yes, through the Etihad Rail website and mobile app.
