Etihad Rail has confirmed the phased rollout of passenger services, beginning with Abu Dhabi–Fujairah operations from June 2026.
The UAE has unveiled its long-awaited passenger rail network, marking a major milestone in the development of the country’s national transport infrastructure.
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan inaugurated the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi and confirmed that the wider passenger rail network will officially launch on 30 September 2026.
The announcement provides the first detailed timeline for the rollout of passenger services across the country, with an introductory operational phase beginning on 30 June 2026 between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
UAE passenger rail services begin this summer
The initial Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service will reduce travel times between the two emirates to just one hour and 45 minutes, offering a faster and more sustainable alternative to road travel.
The wider network will be introduced in phases. Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station will open on 30 September 2026 as part of the official network launch. Stations in Al Dhafra will follow on 30 December 2026, with the final stage completed through the opening of Sharjah Train Station on 30 March 2027.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled reviewed station facilities, operational readiness procedures, passenger information systems and future plans to expand capacity as demand grows.
He said the project reflects the UAE’s vision of creating a fully integrated transport network that enhances connectivity between emirates while supporting tourism, investment and economic development.
His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, described the passenger railway as a transformative step for the country’s transport ecosystem.
He said the network combines advanced technologies and modern mobility solutions to deliver a safe, efficient and convenient travel experience while supporting urban development throughout the UAE.
Network supports national transport ambitions
The passenger railway forms part of the wider UAE Railway Programme, announced in 2021 under the Projects of the 50 initiative.
The programme aims to create an integrated transport ecosystem built around passenger rail, freight services and multimodal transport connections.
Passenger services will be operated by Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and international transport operator Keolis. The partnership combines international railway expertise with local operational knowledge to deliver services across the network.
The fleet will comprise 13 passenger trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers.
Fares on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route will start from AED55 for Comfort Class and AED120 for Premium Class. Ticket sales will open on 23 June 2026 through the Etihad Rail website and mobile application.
In addition to rail services, stations will feature retail outlets, cafés, restaurants and hospitality facilities designed to create a modern passenger experience.
Future expansion studies are also planned to assess extending the network to additional emirates, supporting the UAE’s long-term vision for sustainable mobility and helping deliver the objectives of the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy.
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