The UAE will expand its first passenger rail network this year. Etihad Rail will launch passenger services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on June 30. Later, on September 30, the operator will add new services connecting Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Dhaid.
The expansion marks a major step in improving public transport and regional connectivity across the UAE.
Abu Dhabi to Fujairah Route Starts This Month
Etihad Rail will operate its first passenger service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on June 30. The journey will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Standard-class tickets start at AED55 (€13.20). Premium-class tickets start at AED120 (€28.80).
Fujairah attracts visitors with its mountains, hiking trails, scenic wadis, and historic forts.
Dubai and Sharjah Stations Open in September
Etihad Rail will open stations in Dubai and Al Dhaid on September 30. The company will also launch Al Dhafra station on December 30.
Furthermore, Sharjah station will welcome passengers from March 30, 2027.
Since several stations sit outside city centers, Etihad Rail will operate shuttle buses. These buses will connect passengers to key destinations in Abu Dhabi, including the Corniche, Reem Mall, and ADNEC Centre. Each shuttle ride will cost AED10 (€2.40).
In Dubai, passengers can transfer directly to the metro from Jumeirah Golf Estates station.
More Stations Will Strengthen Connectivity
Etihad Rail plans to add several more stations across Abu Dhabi. However, the company has not announced opening dates yet.
Future stations include:
- Al Mirfa, near Al Mugheirah Bay
- Liwa, famous for its desert landscapes and annual motorsports festival
- Al Sila, close to the Saudi Arabian border
These stations will improve travel options and support tourism across the emirate.
Gulf Railway Plans Continue
The UAE also supports plans for a railway linking the Gulf states. The proposed network will connect the UAE with Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. However, officials have not confirmed construction timelines.
Saudi Arabia already operates passenger rail services between major cities, including Riyadh, Dammam, Qurayyat, Medina, and Mecca.
Meanwhile, Qatar and Saudi Arabia plan to build a high-speed railway between Doha and Riyadh. The project aims for completion in 2031.
As Etihad Rail expands its passenger network, the UAE continues to invest in faster, more sustainable, and more connected transportation.
