The first public phase of the UAE’s national passenger rail service began on June 30, connecting Abu Dhabi Station in Mohammed bin Zayed City with Fujairah Station in Al Hilal. Tickets are being sold through the Etihad Rail website and mobile app, with launch fares showing a 50 per cent discount on the route. Comfort Class seats are listed from AED55, while Premium Class fares start from AED120.
The service has quickly become a lifestyle and travel talking point, not only because it marks the arrival of inter-emirate passenger rail, but also because the journey links the capital with the east coast through a route designed to offer an alternative to long road trips. The train can operate at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour and is positioned as a comfortable option for residents, visitors, families and weekend travellers.
The passenger experience is being promoted around convenience as much as speed. Travellers can search routes, compare fares, book seats, access digital tickets and manage journeys through the Etihad Rail app. The platform is available through major app stores, while bookings can also be completed on the official website. Tickets are offered in different fare categories, giving passengers flexibility depending on price, refund conditions and travel plans.
Demand has been strong at launch, with thousands of tickets sold before and immediately after operations began. Early journeys drew interest from commuters, rail enthusiasts and leisure travellers keen to experience the UAE’s first national passenger train. Launch-day services between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi also drew public attention because they turned a project long associated with freight and infrastructure planning into a visible passenger transport option.
On board, Etihad Rail has focused on modern amenities aimed at making the journey suitable for work, family travel and tourism. Passengers have access to free WiFi, charging ports, reclining seats, luggage space and lounge-style areas. Food and beverages are available for purchase, while Premium Class includes added service benefits. The interiors are designed to provide more space than typical road transport, with an emphasis on quiet travel, digital connectivity and comfort during the cross-country trip.
The route also gives the rail service a tourism angle. Fujairah’s coastline, mountain scenery and growing hospitality sector make it a popular short-break destination, while Abu Dhabi remains a hub for business, culture, government services and international travel. A reliable rail link between the two emirates could encourage more weekend movement, day trips and domestic tourism, especially among residents who prefer not to drive long distances.
The wider Etihad Rail passenger network is planned as a phased rollout across the country. The national rail system spans about 900 kilometres and is designed to connect key population centres, logistics hubs and commercial districts. Passenger stations announced for future phases include Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid and several Al Dhafra locations. The opening of Dubai Station and Al Dhaid Station is scheduled for September 30, 2026, followed by Al Dhafra stations on December 30, 2026, and Sharjah Station on March 30, 2027.
The project has already been operating freight services, moving goods across the UAE and linking industrial zones, ports and border areas. Passenger operations add a public-facing dimension to a network intended to reduce road congestion, support lower-emission travel and strengthen connectivity between emirates. Rail travel is also expected to complement buses, taxis, ride-hailing services and future urban transport links around stations.
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