UAE: Etihad Rail ticket sales have surpassed 70,000 since passenger services began between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on 30 June, while customers now book an average of 12 days ahead.

Etihad Rail Ticket Sales Exceed 70,000 in UAE
Etihad Rail Ticket Sales Exceed 70,000 in UAE

Advance bookings point to sustained early demand

Etihad Rail’s official update indicates that passengers are planning journeys almost two weeks before departure rather than treating the new train solely as a one-off experience.

Demand is coming from families, business travellers, tourists, school groups and people with disabilities. The operator plans to increase capacity gradually during the introductory operating phase as it monitors booking patterns and passenger demand.

“When passengers book nearly two weeks in advance, this shows us that rail travel is already becoming part of how they organise their journeys,” Chief Operating Officer Azza Al Suwaidi said.

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The 250 km route combines speed with launch fares

The first passenger route links Abu Dhabi with Fujairah over approximately 250 km. Trains cover the journey in one hour and 45 minutes and can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h.

According to Etihad Rail’s launch announcement, the passenger fleet comprises 13 trains with capacity for up to 400 people each. Services operate between Mohamed bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi and Al Hilal City station in Fujairah during the introductory phase.

The operator’s introductory fare offer starts at AED 55, approximately EUR 13, in Comfort Class. This class includes a guaranteed seat, Wi-Fi, a power socket at every seat and luggage space.

Premium Class costs AED 120, approximately EUR 28.4, and adds wider seats and complimentary onboard refreshments. After the promotional period, fares are expected to rise to AED 109, approximately EUR 25.8, for Comfort and AED 239, around EUR 56.5, for Premium.

More UAE stations will open in phases

Dubai and Al Dhaid stations are scheduled to open on 30 September 2026. Liwa and Madinat Zayed are due to follow on 30 November, while the remaining Al Dhafra stations are planned for 30 December 2026.

Sharjah station is scheduled for 30 March 2027. The phased rollout will extend passenger rail beyond the initial Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service and connect additional cities and regions to the national network.

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