Etihad Rail operated three special passenger services between the Saudi border and Abu Dhabi on March 3, 2026. ETIHAD RAIL

Etihad Rail has transported more than 350 Emiratis and UAE residents back into the country through special passenger services between the Saudi border and Abu Dhabi. Three train services operated between Al Ghuwaifat, near the Saudi border, and Al Faya station in Abu Dhabi as part of coordinated emergency response efforts following regional airspace disruptions. The exceptional operation was conducted in coordination with the Abu Dhabi Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre under Etihad Rail's trial run ahead of an expected public launch of its passenger train service this year. Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, director general of the centre, said the move showed strong institutional flexibility. “The operation of the passenger service prior to its official launch demonstrates a high degree of institutional flexibility, based on the effective redeployment of available capabilities to address societal priorities, without compromising long-term operational plans or the UAE’s logistical security,” he said, according to state news agency Wam on Tuesday (March 3). Mohammed Al Shehhi, chief projects officer at Etihad Rail, said additional services have been scheduled. “In our commitment to facilitating the movement of individuals, we have scheduled a number of additional services,” he said. “Operations will continue as required, in close coordination with the competent authorities, until air traffic resumes and flights return to their regular schedules.” The trains operated despite the national passenger rail service not yet being officially launched. Officials said the trial run demonstrated the readiness of the UAE’s rail network to maintain vital services during emergencies. Passenger services on the national rail network are expected to begin later this year, with stations planned across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. CAM/ICA/Expat Media
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