The United Arab Emirates has officially commenced the first phase of its long-awaited national passenger railway, marking a historic milestone in the country’s transport infrastructure development. The introductory passenger service now connects Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, reducing travel time between the two emirates to approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and providing a fast, reliable alternative to road transport.
The launch follows the inauguration of the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. During the ceremony, the UAE officially unveiled its national passenger rail network, which will be introduced in phases over the coming months.
The next phase of the rollout is scheduled for 30 September 2026, when passenger services will be extended to Dubai and Al Dhaid, significantly enhancing connectivity between the UAE’s major population centres and economic hubs. The expansion will continue with the opening of Al Dhafra stations on 30 December 2026, before the initial network is completed with the inauguration of the Sharjah station on 30 March 2027. Authorities have also confirmed that feasibility studies are underway to evaluate further extensions to additional emirates as part of the country’s long-term integrated transport strategy.
Passenger operations are managed by Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis, operating a fleet of 13 modern passenger trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers. The trains are designed to operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h and feature modern amenities including Wi-Fi, power outlets, spacious seating, luggage storage and accessible facilities to provide a high-quality travel experience.
Fares for the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service start from AED55 for Comfort Class and AED120 for Premium Class, with tickets available through the Etihad Rail mobile application and official website. The passenger service has already generated strong public interest, with more than 10,000 tickets reportedly sold ahead of the inaugural operations, reflecting significant demand for the UAE’s first intercity passenger railway.
The passenger network forms a key pillar of the UAE Railway Programme, complementing the country’s existing national freight railway, which is already transporting aggregates, sulphur, containerised cargo and other freight across the Emirates. Together, the integrated freight and passenger network is expected to strengthen national mobility, reduce highway congestion, support economic diversification and encourage a shift towards more sustainable transport.
Once fully operational, the initial passenger network will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, establishing the country’s first fully integrated national railway system and laying the foundation for future regional connections through the wider GCC Railway network.
Sources:
- Etihad Rail – The UAE’s First National Passenger Rail Service Begins as Etihad Rail Welcomes First Paying Passengers
- Etihad Rail – Passenger Rail Network
- Abu Dhabi Media Office – Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed inaugurates MBZ City Passenger Train Station and witnesses unveiling of UAE passenger rail network
Related Railway News
