Etihad Rail has revealed new details about the UAE’s first fully integrated national passenger railway network, marking a major milestone ahead of the service’s planned launch in 2026.
The network is designed to connect 11 cities and regions across the country, offering a fast, reliable alternative to road travel while supporting long-term economic growth, tourism, and sustainability goals.
The first phase of passenger services will link Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah, three of the country’s most important urban and economic centers. Travel times are expected to be transformational, with journeys between Abu Dhabi and Dubai taking around one hour, and trips to Fujairah completed in approximately 90 minutes. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour and carry up to 400 passengers each, easing pressure on increasingly busy highways.
Beyond the initial routes, Etihad Rail has confirmed station locations across a wider national footprint, including communities in Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Mezaira’a, Al Faya, Al Dhaid, and Al Sila’. These stations will be introduced in phases, forming the backbone of a passenger system designed to grow alongside population centers and future developments.
Designed for Comfort, Speed, and Seamless Travel
The passenger trains have been developed with a strong focus on comfort and convenience. Interiors will feature modern design, ergonomic seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and power outlets at every seat, positioning rail travel as a practical alternative for commuters, business travelers, and tourists. Services will operate on a regular and precise schedule, offering predictability that is often difficult to achieve by road during peak hours.
Integration with existing transport networks is a key part of the project. Stations are being designed to connect smoothly with metro lines, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services, ensuring that first- and last-mile travel is as efficient as the rail journey itself. Parking facilities and future transport connections are also being factored in to accommodate evolving travel patterns.
A National Project with Long-Term Impact
Etihad Rail’s passenger network builds on the success of the UAE’s freight rail operations, which began in 2023. The passenger system is expected to deliver wide-ranging benefits beyond mobility, including reduced emissions, improved road safety, and stronger social and economic ties between the Emirates. By making intercity travel faster and more accessible, the network is also expected to stimulate domestic tourism and regional development.
The scale of the project reflects years of planning and coordination, involving thousands of specialists and millions of working hours. Each station and route has been selected based on population density, travel demand, and future growth potential, ensuring the network remains relevant for decades to come.
As anticipation builds ahead of the 2026 launch, Etihad Rail’s passenger services are set to redefine how people move across the UAE. With speed, comfort, and national connectivity at its core, the network represents a significant step toward a more integrated and sustainable transport future.