Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum boarded the Etihad Rail passenger train from Dubai to Fujairah on August 2, 2025. WAM
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, took a historic ride aboard the Etihad Rail passenger train on Saturday (August 2), traveling from Dubai to Fujairah in a symbolic journey that underscores the UAE’s commitment to transformational infrastructure and sustainable mobility. The visit marks a pivotal phase in the development of the UAE’s national railway network, which is expected to launch commercial passenger operations in 2026. The Dubai-Fujairah route will become one of the key corridors connecting 11 cities across the country—from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east. Describing the railway as a landmark national project, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized its strategic importance for the country’s economic and social advancement. "Etihad Rail is a vital economic artery that supports the UAE’s journey to the future,” he said. “It is a key pillar in our vision to build an integrated transport network that strengthens the UAE’s position as a leading logistics hub, while facilitating the movement of people and goods.” He added that the project “reflects the spirit of the Union, supports national aspirations, and strengthens sustainability, connectivity, and quality of life across all emirates.” The UAE leader also praised the project team, calling their efforts “a source of pride and a vital contribution to building an advanced sustainable transport system.” Sheikh Mohammed’s ride aboard the Etihad Rail passenger train symbolized more than a transport trial—it was a strong statement of leadership and hands-on governance. He was briefed by the Etihad Rail team on progress and milestones reached since the launch of the "Projects of the 50" in 2021. Sheikh Theyab Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, described the journey as a reflection of the leadership’s ongoing support for national development: “We had the honour of hosting His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum aboard a passenger train journey between the emirates of Dubai and Fujairah. He has been integral to our journey… Today, we stand on the cusp of a transformative era in the UAE's transportation landscape.”
What to expect from Etihad Rail’s passenger service
Etihad Rail aims to transform the way people and goods move across the UAE, setting a new benchmark for safe, efficient, and eco-friendly mobility in the region. Scheduled to begin operations in 2026, the Etihad Rail passenger trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, connecting major cities and regions across the Emirates with: • 11 destinations including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah • Up to 400 passengers per train • 36.5 million passengers expected annually by 2030 The first four key passenger stations will be located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, forming a backbone of the national railway network. Each station will serve as a major hub, enhancing connectivity, reducing travel times, and boosting access to services, jobs, and tourism across the country. The project also supports the UAE’s strategic goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Etihad Rail will promote economic integration, social cohesion, and regional development by seamlessly connecting communities, reducing road congestion, and creating a cleaner, more efficient way to travel. The project reflects the UAE’s global ambition to become a leading logistics hub, while fostering domestic development through infrastructure investments aligned with the country's long-term national strategy. As Sheikh Mohammed stated, this project “serves all regions of the country and ensures alignment with the UAE’s development goals for the next phase.” Project highlights: • Passenger launch: Scheduled for 2026 • Train speed: Up to 200 km/h • Capacity: Up to 400 passengers per train • Network reach: 11 cities, from Al Sila to Fujairah • Annual ridership: Expected to reach 36.5 million by 2030 • First stations: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah ICA/CAM/Expat MediaFor all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page
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