Sri Lanka
USA
Canada
India
UK
UAE
The UAE is set to transform public transportation with the launch of its highly anticipated Etihad Rail passenger train service in 2026. This futuristic railway will connect major cities across all seven emirates, offering a faster, more comfortable, and sustainable way to travel.
Announced during a meeting led by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Etihad Rail representatives, the project is one of the largest transportation undertakings in the UAE’s history. Once operational, the service is expected to carry 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030.
Which Cities Will Be Connected?
The network will stretch over 1,200km, linking 11 key cities and regions:
Abu Dhabi
Dubai
Sharjah
Ras Al Khaimah
Fujairah
Al Ain
Ruwais
Al Mirfa
Al Dhaid
Ghuweifat (near Saudi border)
Sohar, Oman (via the Hafeet Rail project)
Train Stations and High-Speed Lines
Stations will be placed in key hubs, including Sakamkam (Fujairah) and University City (Sharjah). Potential station sites include Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai and near Mussafah in Abu Dhabi.
A new high-speed electrified line will link Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with six major stops including Reem Island, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Dubai’s Al Maktoum Airport. The journey between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will take just 30 minutes, with the train reaching up to 350 km/h.
Travel Times Between Major Cities
Abu Dhabi to Dubai – 57 minutes
Abu Dhabi to Ruwais – 70 minutes
Abu Dhabi to Fujairah – 105 minutes
Dubai to Fujairah – 50 minutes
Luxury Onboard Experience
The trains will feature 400+ seats across First, Business, and Economy Class, designed for comfort and elegance. Expect:
Free Wi-Fi
Infotainment systems
Charging ports
Ample legroom
Advanced air-conditioning
Elegant interiors, digital displays, and electric door separations add a sleek, modern touch.
Scenic Routes and Seamless Connectivity
Passengers will enjoy stunning views of the Liwa desert, Fujairah’s mountains, and urban skylines as they travel. Etihad Rail will offer door-to-door connectivity, integrated with public transport and mobility apps for easy access from train stations to final destinations.
Tickets, Tech, and Partnerships
Travelers may be able to use Dubai’s Nol card for Etihad Rail journeys. Etihad Rail has partnered with top international companies like SNCF International, Alstom, and Thales to ensure smart ticketing, traffic operations, and passenger flow.
More than just transport, Etihad Rail represents the UAE’s bold vision for sustainable, high-tech urban living, reshaping how people experience the nation.
