Etihad Rail launches UAE's first national passenger train service

On 30 June 2026 Etihad Rail inaugurated the United Arab Emirates' first passenger rail service, running a diesel‑powered train from Fujairah’s Al Hilal City station to Mohamed bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi. The inaugural trip departed at 05:34 local time and arrived at 07:19, covering roughly 250 km in 1 hour 45 minutes at speeds of up to 200 km/h. More than 10,000 tickets were sold ahead of launch, with introductory fares of Dh 55 for Comfort Class and Dh 120 for Premium Class. The service operated six trains on the first day, each with a capacity of 400 passengers, and featured Wi‑Fi, power outlets, and complimentary refreshments. Notable passengers included a designated “person of determination” as the first official rider and UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi.

Etihad Rail plans rapid network expansion: Dubai (Jumeirah Golf Estates) and Al Dhaid stations are slated to open on 30 September 2026, Al Dhafra stations in December 2026, and Sharjah University City in March 2027, eventually linking 11 emirate cities over a 900‑km route. Officials cite expected economic benefits of up to 90 billion AED over 50 years and a contribution to the UAE’s carbon‑reduction goals, with the rail integrated into Abu Dhabi’s wider public‑transport system.

“​The first departure from Fujairah this morning is the moment a national vision becomes part of everyday life,” said Azza Alsuwaidi, Etihad Rail’s chief operating officer.