Travelling within the Emirates is about to get a whole lot easier.

The UAE is pulling out all the stops to make travel across the country easy for everyone. With Dubai Metro expanding and new plans for Etihad Rail underway, it’s committed to enhancing tourism within the region. With the tracks and trains still under development, here’s everything you need to know about Etihad Rail.

Etihad Rail to begin passenger services

The UAE is pulling out all the stops to make travel across the country easy for everyone. Currently, Etihad Rail carries only freight trains, but this all looks set to change. Etihad Rail shared a post on Instagram featuring a meeting with HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region. In the caption, the company confirmed that passenger services will begin in 2026. However, the full network will not be operational until 2030.

Etihad Rail reveals travel times between emirates

Etihad Rail is expected to allow smooth travel within the Emirates, and now, it has revealed the travel times it would take to go from one location to the other. Say goodbye to 90 minutes of travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, because this train is going to reduce this to under an hour. Once operational, you can make your way to the capital from Dubai and vice versa in 57 minutes.

Similarly, travelling to areas like Al Ruwais and Fujairah from Abu Dhabi will also see a major reduction in time. The Abu Dhabi to Al Ruwais road trip, which would normally take about two hours and 30 minutes, will be cut short to 70 minutes. Venturing off to Fujairah, which currently takes a little over two hours and 30 minute,s will also be reduced to one hour and 35 minutes.

Etihad Rail unveils passenger stations

Earlier, Etihad Rail announced its addition to the passenger stations. Located in Fujairah’s Sakamkam area, this Etihad Rail passenger station marks the network’s second confirmed spot. Prior to that, it was announced that another passenger station would be situated within Sharjah’s University City. This news was confirmed by the Director of Public Policy and Sustainability at Etihad Rail, Adhraa Almansoori, at the Global Rail conference held in Abu Dhabi in October 2024.

Meed.com has reported additional station locations behind the Jumeirah Golf Estates metro station on the Red Line in Dubai, between Dalma Mall and Musaffah bus station in Abu Dhabi, and within Fujariah’s Al-Hilal City development.

Visitors attending the conference also explored a sample of a passenger train compartment that was on display. It featured plush grey leather seats donning the iconic Etihad Rail logo. Once completed, these trains will also have a viewing gallery with reclining chairs that spin and large windows to enjoy the views outside.

Etihad Rail

Facts and figures

The first stage of development began in 2016, followed by the second stage in 2020. When fully operational, this network will span an impressive 1200 kilometres, linking all seven emirates and 11 cities across the UAE. These trains are set to reach speeds of up to 200km/hour, cutting your travel time and providing a scenic view. 

The project is as much about sustainability as it is about speed. It’s taking special care to preserve the UAE’s natural beauty. It maintains the region’s flora and fauna so travellers can enjoy the stunning views of the region’s diverse landscapes.

GO: Visit www.etihadrail.ae for more information.