Etihad Rail launches UAE passenger service and new stations

Etihad Rail began its first passenger service on 30 June, linking Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on a route that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes and runs at speeds up to 200 km/h. The network will eventually span roughly 900 km, connect 11 cities and aim to carry 36 million passengers a year by 2030.

Travel guidelines allow passengers to bring domestic pets in approved carriers, as well as pushchairs and mobility aids. Certified assistance dogs are permitted with prior arrangement. Bicycles, scooters, e‑scooters and e‑bikes are prohibited, along with weapons, explosives, hazardous substances, narcotics, alcohol and smoking devices.

Ten initial stations are now open, including Mohammed Bin Zayed City (Abu Dhabi), Jumeirah Golf Estates (Dubai), Al Dhaid and University City (Sharjah), Madinat Zayed (Abu Dhabi), Al Hilal (Fujairah) and others. Additional stations will open in phases through 2027, expanding the rail link across the UAE.