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Etihad Rail Launches Abu Dhabi–Fujairah Passenger Service from June 30, 2026

June 23, 2026Shagufta Yaseen3 min read
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Etihad Rail Launches Abu Dhabi–Fujairah Passenger Service from June 30, 2026
Etihad RailUAE TransportAbu DhabiFujairahPassenger TrainUAE RailwayDubai TransportUAE InfrastructurePublic TransportEtihad Rail Launch

The UAE's long-awaited national passenger railway network is finally becoming a reality. Etihad Rail has officially announced the launch of its introductory passenger service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, beginning on June 30, 2026. The inauguration of the Mohammed Bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi marks a major milestone in the country's transportation infrastructure, bringing the vision of seamless inter-emirate travel one step closer.

Passenger Service Launch Dates

June 30, 2026 – Introductory Operations

Passenger services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will officially begin, offering travelers a journey time of just 1 hour and 45 minutes.

September 30, 2026 – Official Public Network Launch

Dubai and Al Dhaid stations will become operational, marking the official launch of the UAE's national passenger railway network.

December 30, 2026 – Al Dhafra Stations Open

Passenger stations across the Al Dhafra region will begin serving commuters.

March 30, 2027 – Network Completion

The initial network will be completed with the opening of Sharjah Train Station.

Cities Connected by Etihad Rail

The 900-kilometer railway network will eventually connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, including:

  • Abu Dhabi

  • Dubai

  • Sharjah

  • Fujairah

  • Al Dhaid

  • Al Dhannah

  • Al Faya

  • Madinat Zayed

  • Mezaira'a

  • Al Mirfa

  • Al Sila

Travel Times

Etihad Rail significantly reduces travel times between emirates:

  • Abu Dhabi to Dubai: 57 minutes

  • Abu Dhabi to Fujairah: 1 hour 45 minutes

  • Abu Dhabi to Al Ruwais: 1 hour 10 minutes

The trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, while future high-speed services may reach 350 km/h.

Ticket Prices

Introductory ticket prices for the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route start from:

  • Comfort Class: AED 55

  • Premium Class: AED 120

Passengers can purchase tickets through the Etihad Rail website and mobile application.

Passenger Experience

Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers and will offer:

  • Economy, Family, and Premium classes

  • Comfortable seating

  • Charging stations

  • Wi-Fi and connectivity services

  • Food and beverage options

  • Spacious work and relaxation areas

  • Advanced air-conditioning systems

Modern Passenger Stations

The newly developed stations are designed as lifestyle destinations and will include:

  • Cafés and restaurants

  • Retail stores

  • International brands

  • Waiting lounges

  • Modern passenger facilities

Future of Transportation in the UAE

Etihad Rail is expected to transform transportation across the UAE by reducing travel times, supporting economic growth, and promoting sustainable mobility. The network is projected to carry approximately 36 million passengers annually by 2030. The project represents one of the UAE's most significant transportation developments, connecting communities, supporting tourism, and providing a faster and greener alternative to road travel.

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