Etihad Rail expands Dubai passenger services from September
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From September 30, the passenger network will include Dubai, connecting the emirates through Etihad Rail as the UAE national rail service officially launches
Etihad Rail, the UAE’s national rail project, will officially launch its passenger network on September 30, 2026, marking a major milestone for UAE rail transport. The network will connect Abu Dhabi Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Dubai Al Yalayis and Fujairah, forming the backbone of the country’s national rail mobility system. The service will operate 10 daily journeys on the Dubai to Abu Dhabi train route and six daily journeys between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
Dubai joins the national passenger rail network
With this launch, Dubai becomes part of the UAE national rail network, strengthening inter-emirate connectivity under the Etihad Rail passenger service.
Dubai Al Yalayis Station is directly connected to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station via a dedicated pedestrian bridge, offering seamless access to the Dubai Metro Red Line.
Other first- and last-mile options include taxis, shuttle buses and private pick-up and drop-off. Passengers can also add a Nol One-Day Pass through the Etihad Rail app, with the train ticket and Nol pass issued via a single QR code.
Dubai-Fujairah fares start from AED 29
Fares on the UAE rail network start from AED 29 in Comfort Class and AED 89 in Premium Class for the Dubai–Fujairah route.
On the Dubai to Abu Dhabi train service, fares start from AED 39 for Comfort Class and AED 109 for Premium Class.
Tickets are available through the Etihad Rail app, website and station ticket machines, with bookings for Dubai services opening on September 28.
Passengers benefit from guaranteed seating, Wi-Fi, onboard power and luggage space, with both Comfort and Premium classes available.
Trains can reach 200 km/h
The Etihad Rail passenger trains can carry up to 400 passengers and reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, significantly improving intercity travel across the UAE.
Etihad Rail expects the UAE national rail network to carry around 10 million passengers annually once fully operational.
The company also confirmed that more than 150,000 passengers used its introductory Abu Dhabi–Fujairah services, with bookings typically made around 10 days in advance.
Network will continue expanding
Following the September 30 launch, the UAE rail network expansion will continue with Madinat Zayed and Liwa joining on November 30, followed by additional Al Dhafra stations on December 30 and a Sharjah station on March 30, 2027.
Beyond the UAE, Hafeet Rail is expected to further strengthen regional connectivity between the UAE and Oman, supporting cross-border passenger and freight movement as part of the wider GCC rail vision.
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