UAE, May 17th, 2025- A new chapter of travel in the UAE is going to start soon. The passenger service of Etihad Rail, starting in 2026, will completely change the way of traveling across the country. It is not just a train, but a visionary project that will connect communities, reduce travel time, strengthen the economy, and support the sustainable development goals of the country. Whether you are a resident of UAE or a tourist, Etihad Rail will give you an opportunity to know and understand different parts of the country in a smart, fast, and green way.
What cities will be connected by Etihad Rail?
Etihad Rail’s passenger network will be spread over about 1,200 km, which will connect 11 major cities and areas of all the seven Emirates of the country. The purpose of this project is not only to make the journey faster and easier, but also to promote green and sustainable transport in the country. This is a big step to give a new direction to the UAE infrastructure.
Etihad Rails include the major cities that will connect:
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Sharjah
- Raas al Khamah
- Fujaira
- Al Ain
- Ruwais
- Al Mirfa
- Al Daheed
- Ghuwafat (Located on the border of Saudi Arabia)
- Sohar (Oman, through Hafeet Rail Project)
This railway network promises to bring not only cities, but also people closer.
Where Will Etihad Rail Stations Be Located?
To ensure passengers’ convenience and easy access, Etihad rail stations are being built at strategic places. Major places such as Sakamamam in Fujaira, University City of Sharjah, and Jumeira Golf Estates Metro Station on Dubai’s Red Line have been included. An important station in Abu Dhabi will be between Dalma Mall and Musafafa bus station.
These stations will also connect with existing public transport networks such as metro and bus services, which will make intercity travel even easier for passengers.
Abu Dhabi And Dubai Linked With A High-Speed Train
The most exciting part of this project is the high-speed and fully electric train, which will connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This train will run at a speed of 350 kmph and make it possible to travel between the two cities in just 30 minutes.
The train will pass through six major stations, including Abu Dhabi’s Rem Island, Sadiat Island, Yas Island and Zayed International Airport, while in Dubai it will pass through Al Maktoom International Airport and Al Jaddaf. This high-speed service will push the UAE forward on the path of modern, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly travel.
Fast and Far Network
The entire Etihad has been designed keeping in mind the rail network speed, convenience, and comfortable journey of passengers. These trains will run at a speed of 200 km per hour and can take about 400 passengers on every trip. Through this network of about 900 km long, there will be a safe, reliable, and time-bound travel experience in every corner of the UAE-you are going to work every day or you have gone to visit the country.
The time for passengers traveling by train will be like this:
- The journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai will be completed by train in about 57 minutes.
- Abu Dhabi to Ruvis, it will take about 70 minutes to reach.
- The journey from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will be about 105 minutes.
- The journey from Dubai to Fujairah can be completed in just 50 minutes.
It is clear that the journey through Etihad Rail is going to be faster and comfortable than ever.
Relaxation And Luxury Will Be Available On The Journey
In every train, more than 400 passengers will be able to travel in every train, including first class, business class, and economy class. For the comfort of the passengers, the train will have facilities like free Wi-Fi, an infotainment system, charging points, adequate legroom, and advanced air-conditioning.
Silver and gray colored coaches have different types of seating, which are arranged in 2+2 formats like an airplane class. Each compartment has been separated by electric doors, and every section of the train has screens which display information like station location and arrival time.
Train Will Pass Through the Beautiful Landscapes of UAE
Etihad Rail is not only a transport system, but also the experience of the natural beauty of the UAE. This rail route will pass through some amazing natural scenes:
- Hazar Mountain range: A spectacular view of 145 km between Fujaira and Sharjah.
- Leva Desert: Golden sand dunes and a famous oasis.
- Al Bithna Bridge: The highest railway bridge in UAE, which is 600 meters long and passes through the mountainous region. This path will give passengers amazing experiences from various geography of UAE to deserts.
‘Nol Card’ For Etihad Railway Ticket
To make the journey more convenient, Dubai’s Rods and Transport Authority (RTA) has partnered with Etihad Rail. Now, passengers will be able to buy tickets for Etihad rail using their NOL card – which has already been used in metro and bus services. This integrated system will make the journey simpler than before, connecting different modes of transport in the UAE.
Etihad Rail is not just talking about traffic improvement – it is opening new doors of opportunities. As the connectivity increases, tourism and local businesses will be promoted in less famous areas of the country. This rail service will help in flourishing small businesses flourish and will work to bring the entire country together.
This project, based on the values of sustainability, convenience, and innovation, will change the definition of travel in the UAE, with every track, threading the country in one thread.
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