Etihad Rail has officially opened bookings for its first passenger train service connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Tickets start from Dh55 under a limited-time 50% launch offer, and the journey will take just 1 hour and 45 minutes. The service marks the beginning of a wider passenger rail network that will eventually connect more emirates across the UAE.
For years, UAE residents have watched the progress of Etihad Rail and wondered when passenger services would finally arrive. That moment has now come.
Etihad Rail has officially opened bookings for its first passenger train route between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, giving residents and visitors a chance to experience a new way of travelling across the country.
The service begins on June 30 and represents the first phase of what will become a nationwide passenger rail network connecting major cities and communities across the UAE.
With introductory fares starting from just Dh55, many residents are already planning their first journey on what is expected to become one of the country’s most important transport projects.
What is included in the first phase of the Etihad Rail passenger network?
The first passenger route will operate between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, linking the capital with the UAE’s east coast in significantly less time than a typical road journey.
According to Etihad Rail, the trip will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
This launch is only the beginning. The wider passenger network will gradually expand to include Dubai, Al Dhaid, Al Dhafra and Sharjah, creating a more connected transport system across the Emirates.
The project aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision of improving mobility, reducing travel times and offering residents more sustainable transport options.

How much do Etihad Rail tickets cost?
To celebrate the launch, Etihad Rail is offering passengers a 50% introductory discount on fares.
Current ticket prices displayed on the booking platform include:
- Comfort Class: From Dh55 (regular fare Dh109)
- Premium Class: From Dh120 (regular fare Dh239)
Passengers can book tickets through the Etihad Rail website and mobile application.
The discounted fares make the first journeys especially attractive for families, weekend travellers and residents looking to explore Fujairah without driving long distances.
When will the trains start running?
Passenger operations between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah are scheduled to begin on June 30, 2026.
The official nationwide passenger rail launch is planned for September 30, 2026, when additional stations are expected to become operational.
The phased rollout currently includes:
- June 30, 2026: Abu Dhabi and Fujairah stations open
- September 30, 2026: Dubai and Al Dhaid stations join the network
- December 30, 2026: Al Dhafra stations open
- March 30, 2027: Sharjah station opens
Once completed, the network will provide residents with a practical alternative to travelling by car between emirates.
What can passengers expect onboard?
Etihad Rail’s passenger trains have been designed with comfort and convenience in mind.
The fleet consists of 13 trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers.
Passengers can expect:
- Guaranteed seating
- Onboard Wi-Fi
- Comfortable cabins
- Modern facilities
- Dedicated passenger services
For regular commuters and leisure travellers alike, the experience aims to make intercity travel smoother and more enjoyable.
Where are the first stations located?
The first two stations opening to passengers are located in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
The Abu Dhabi station is situated in Mohammed Bin Zayed City, while the Fujairah station is located in Al Hilal City.
Both stations will operate daily from 5am to 11pm.
Passengers will also find a range of facilities, including:
- Parking areas
- Family waiting rooms
- Prayer rooms
- Retail outlets
- Food and beverage options
- Taxi and ride-hailing zones
- Customer assistance counters
- First aid services
The stations have been designed to provide a seamless experience from arrival through to boarding.
Why does this matter for UAE residents?
For many residents, travelling between emirates often means spending hours behind the wheel, especially during weekends and public holidays.
The launch of passenger rail services introduces a completely new travel option that combines convenience, speed and comfort.
For Dubai residents in particular, the upcoming addition of a Dubai station later this year could significantly change how people travel for business meetings, family visits and leisure trips across the country.
The project is also expected to support tourism by making destinations such as Fujairah more accessible for day trips and weekend getaways.
The UAE Government has consistently highlighted integrated transport infrastructure as a key part of the country’s future growth strategy, and the Etihad Rail passenger network represents one of the biggest milestones in that journey.
FAQs
Q: When can passengers start travelling on Etihad Rail?
A: Passenger services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will begin on June 30, 2026.
Q: How much do Etihad Rail tickets cost?
A: Launch fares currently start from Dh55 for Comfort Class and Dh120 for Premium Class under a 50% introductory discount.
Q: How long is the journey between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah?
A: The trip will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Q: Will Etihad Rail connect Dubai?
A: Yes. Dubai Station is expected to open as part of the next phase of the passenger network on September 30, 2026.
Q: Can tourists use Etihad Rail?
A: Yes. The service is available for both UAE residents and visitors, with tickets available through the official booking channels.
After years of anticipation, Etihad Rail’s passenger service is finally becoming a reality. With affordable launch fares, modern onboard facilities and plans to connect more emirates in the coming months, the project is set to change the way people travel across the UAE.
For residents looking to experience the country’s newest transport network, now may be the perfect time to book that first journey.
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