The UAE’s plan to connect the country by passenger train is no longer just a concept on paper. Etihad Rail has officially revealed the full map of its national passenger rail network, announcing seven new stations that complete the system and bring the total to 11 across the country.
For residents who spend hours driving between emirates, this is a major shift. The Etihad Rail passenger network UAE is expected to begin operations this year, with stations opening in phases and services gradually coming online.
It marks the first time the UAE will have a fully integrated, nationwide passenger rail system.
Seven new stations complete the network
Etihad Rail confirmed that the newly announced passenger stations will be located in Al Sila, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Mezairaa, Al Faya, and Al Dhaid. These locations extend passenger rail access well beyond major cities, reaching the Western Region and central areas that are usually associated with long road journeys.
These stations are in addition to the four previously announced locations in Mohammed Bin Zayed City (Abu Dhabi), Jumeirah Golf Estates (Dubai), University City (Sharjah), and Al Hilal area (Fujairah).
Together, the 11 stations will connect 11 cities and regions, forming a single national rail corridor that links all seven emirates.
For Dubai residents, the Jumeirah Golf Estates station is expected to play a key role. Located close to major communities and road networks, it could become a popular starting point for inter-emirate travel without touching Sheikh Zayed Road.
importance of these locations
According to Etihad Rail, station sites were chosen carefully to serve population centres and support future growth. This isn’t just about moving people between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It’s about connecting communities that previously relied almost entirely on cars.
Residents in areas like Al Dhafra, Madinat Zayed, and Al Mirfa know how long those drives can be, especially in summer. A train connection changes that experience completely.
Mohammed Alshehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said the goal was to place stations in strategic locations that serve real demand, not just headline cities. It’s a practical approach, and one that aligns with how the UAE plans infrastructure: long-term, connected, and scalable.
What travelling on Etihad Rail will look like?
Passenger comfort has clearly been a priority. Etihad Rail trains will offer business and economy class, similar to what travellers are already familiar with on regional flights.
Business class compartments will have 16 seats, while economy class compartments will seat 56 passengers. Each train can carry up to 400 people at a time.
Inside, passengers can expect modern interiors, Wi-Fi connectivity, and power sockets at every seat. Whether it’s professionals working on laptops or families keeping kids entertained, the setup is designed for real-life use, not just short hops.
Services will run on a regular schedule, offering fast and efficient connections between emirates while easing pressure on highways.
Alshehhi confirmed that 10 out of the 13 passenger trains have already arrived, completed testing, and received certification to international safety and quality standards. The remaining trains are expected to follow soon.
Years of work behind the scenes
Projects of this scale don’t happen overnight. Etihad Rail says the passenger network is the result of three years of detailed planning, design, and delivery.
More than 7,000 experts and workers were involved, contributing a combined 24.5 million working hours. From engineering and safety testing to station design and operations planning, the effort has been massive.
Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail, described the passenger rail network as a cornerstone of the UAE’s transport system. Building on the freight services launched in 2023, she said the passenger expansion reflects strong collaboration between partners, national talent, and global expertise.
It also signals a shift in how people are expected to move around the country in the coming years.
Who will run the passenger service?
To operate the passenger trains, Etihad Rail has partnered with Keolis, a global leader in passenger transport. The joint venture was announced last year and covers far more than just train operations.
Keolis will also manage supporting services such as buses, taxis, car access, and parking, making it easier for passengers to get from their homes to stations and onward to their final destinations.
The company will be responsible for training drivers, recruiting staff, and ensuring operations meet international standards while being adapted to local conditions.
For residents, this integrated approach could make rail travel a practical everyday option, not just something used occasionally.
for daily life in the UAE
Beyond convenience, the Etihad Rail passenger network is expected to bring wider benefits. Fewer cars on the road mean less congestion, especially on busy intercity routes. It also supports emission reduction, aligning with the UAE’s sustainability goals.
Tourism is another big winner. Visitors will be able to move easily between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Fujairah without renting cars or relying on long road trips. For residents, weekend plans could look very different.
A beach day in Fujairah, a business meeting in Abu Dhabi, or a cultural visit to Sharjah could soon start with a train ride instead of a drive.
What happens next?
Etihad Rail has confirmed that stations will open in phases, with passenger services expected to begin later this year. Details such as ticket prices, travel times, and full schedules are likely to be announced closer to launch.
For now, the full network reveal gives residents a clear picture of what’s coming. A connected UAE, linked by rail, is no longer a future promise. It’s almost here.
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