The UAE’s first national passenger train service is set to launch on June 30, 2026, marking a historic shift for Etihad Rail from a freight-only network to one carrying both goods and people across the Emirates.
The First Route Connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah
The inaugural passenger route will connect Mohamed bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi to Al Hilal City in Fujairah, forming the core spine of the national passenger network. The journey is expected to take roughly 50 to 57 minutes, significantly faster and less stressful than the equivalent highway drive.
More Stations Coming Through 2027
Following the initial launch, additional stations are scheduled to open at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai and Al Dhaid in Sharjah on September 30, 2026, followed by Al Dhafra on December 30, 2026, and Sharjah’s University City by March 2027. The passenger fleet will start with 13 trains, each capable of carrying around 400 passengers.
A Network Already Proven on Freight
Etihad Rail’s freight operations have already demonstrated the network’s reliability, having transported over 459,000 tonnes of cargo and roughly 7,900 containers across more than 100 train trips during a nine day stretch earlier this year, even amid regional tensions. The full network spans roughly 900 kilometres, connecting all seven emirates and linking to Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Why This Matters for Residents
Officials say the passenger network is designed to ease pressure on highways while supporting the UAE’s long-term emissions reduction goals, with each fully laden freight train already replacing approximately 300 trucks on the road. A future high-speed link between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is also planned, eventually cutting travel time between the two cities to just 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Etihad Rail’s passenger service launch?
The first passenger route launches on June 30, 2026, connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
How long will the Abu Dhabi to Fujairah journey take?
The journey is expected to take approximately 50 to 57 minutes.
How many passengers can each train carry?
Each of the initial 13 trains can carry approximately 400 passengers.
