Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan inaugurates the Etihad Rail passenger station in Abu Dhabi on June 23, 2026.

The UAE's long-awaited passenger rail network will officially begin operations on September 30, marking a major milestone in the country's transportation history and ushering in a new era of inter-emirate travel. The announcement was made on Tuesday (June 23) as Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, inaugurated the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi and witnessed the unveiling of the national passenger rail network. The passenger service will be rolled out in phases, with an introductory operational phase between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah beginning on June 30.

Abu Dhabi-Fujairah service launches first

The first operational phase will connect Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, reducing travel time between the two emirates to just one hour and 45 minutes. Fares on the route will start at Dh55 for Comfort Class and Dh120 for Premium Class. Passengers will be able to purchase tickets through the Etihad Rail mobile application and official website starting June 23. According to Etihad Rail, trains will travel at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour and accommodate up to 400 passengers each.

National network rollout timeline

The wider passenger rail network will officially launch on September 30 with the opening of Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station. The next phase will see stations in Al Dhafra open on December 30. The final segment of the initial network will be completed with the opening of Sharjah Train Station on March 30, 2027. Once complete, the network will connect major population centres, economic zones and tourism destinations across the UAE. Authorities also confirmed that feasibility studies are being undertaken to assess future expansion into additional emirates. Passenger services will be operated by Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and international transport operator Keolis. Sheikh Khaled said the passenger rail project reflects the UAE's vision of creating a fully integrated national transport system. He noted that the railway will strengthen connectivity between emirates, facilitate the movement of people and goods, support sustainable development and create new opportunities for investment and tourism. Sheikh Khaled also described the project as a strategic investment supporting the UAE's Projects of the 50 initiative and enhancing the country's long-term competitiveness.

Fujairah station completed

Meanwhile, Etihad Rail has completed its first passenger station in Fujairah ahead of the launch. Located in the Madinat Al Hilal area, the station spans 51,900 square metres and is expected to serve as a key hub in the national network. The station is approximately 12 minutes from Fujairah International Airport, six minutes from Umbrella Beach Corniche and five minutes from Sakamkam Fort. Passengers will have access to retail outlets, restaurants, cafés, waiting areas, automated payment machines, a VIP lounge, high-speed Wi-Fi and onboard dining services. ICA/CAM/Expat Media
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