Etihad Rail to Launch Passenger Service Across the UAE by 2026

Etihad Rail is poised to transform travel across the United Arab Emirates by launching a nationwide passenger rail service in 2026, connecting all seven emirates and reshaping how residents and visitors move between cities. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

First Etihad Rail Passenger Stations Announced

The Etihad Rail project is already underway, with the first passenger station under construction in Sakamkam, Fujairah. Positioned at the center of the city, this station will serve as a major hub for travelers heading east.

Another passenger station is coming to Sharjah, located near University City. Dubai’s new station will be built near Jumeirah Golf Estates, adding accessibility to one of the emirate’s major residential developments. Abu Dhabi, naturally, will be a central part of this initial rollout.

Etihad Rail to Connect 11 Cities Across 7 Emirates

Stretching 900 kilometers, the Etihad Rail network will connect 11 key cities — including Al Sila, Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Al Dhaid, Fujairah, Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi — across all seven emirates.

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Travel between major destinations will become dramatically faster. A trip from Abu Dhabi to Dubai will take just 50 minutes, and future high-speed service could reduce that to 30 minutes. Journeys from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will be completed in around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Travel time to Al Ruwais will drop to 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Etihad Rail expects to cut travel time by 30–40% compared to driving, making daily commutes and weekend getaways far more practical. The line will also eventually reach Al Maktoum International Airport, ensuring integration with air transport.

Comfort, Speed, and Capacity on Etihad Rail Trains

Spanish manufacturer CAF will design and produce the new passenger trains under European safety and comfort standards. Each train will carry over 400 passengers and run at speeds up to 200 km/h. The high-speed service — still in development — will eventually reach up to 350 km/h.

Trains will offer multiple seating options including first class, business class, and economy. Business coaches will feature 16 seats, while each economy coach will hold 56. These configurations aim to balance passenger comfort and efficient use of space.

Onboard amenities will include air-conditioning, entertainment systems, USB charging ports, and food and beverage service. The Italian luxury brand Arsenale has joined the project to bring a premium hospitality experience, drawing inspiration from the Orient Express. Etihad Rail envisions a luxurious, comfortable journey from start to finish.

Stations will also provide premium experiences, including retail spaces, business lounges, and family-friendly facilities.

Etihad Freight Network Supports Sustainable Logistics

Etihad Rail already operates a nationwide freight network that moves goods across the UAE using 38 locomotives and over 1,000 freight wagons. The system reduces heavy truck traffic, improves road safety, and cuts transportation times significantly.

A state-of-the-art terminal in Al Ruways Industrial City spans more than 1 million square meters and handles container storage, loading, unloading, and maintenance. For companies like Borouge, delivery times have dropped from 12 hours to just four.

Businesses can now book freight services online through the Etihad Rail website, gaining access to faster and more cost-effective logistics options.

UAE-Oman Link Strengthens Regional Trade

Etihad Rail is extending its reach beyond UAE borders with a connection to Oman. The new line will run from Sohar Port to Abu Dhabi, passing through Al Ain. This route will take just 1 hour and 40 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Sohar, and 47 minutes from Al Ain to Sohar.

This link enhances regional cooperation and opens new channels for trade, travel, and cross-border logistics.

Etihad Rail Advances UAE Sustainability Goals

Etihad Rail plays a crucial role in helping the UAE meet its climate targets. By 2050, the national rail network is projected to reduce road transport CO₂ emissions by 21%.

Each train journey is expected to remove 300 trucks from UAE roads, cutting traffic congestion and lowering pollution. The project directly supports national strategies for environmental sustainability, infrastructure modernization, and economic diversification.

What’s Next for Etihad Rail?

With the 2026 launch approaching, Etihad Rail continues to generate buzz across the country. From sneak peeks of cabin interiors to progress reports from engineers and officials, the project is attracting widespread public interest.

High-speed rail planning is ongoing, and final specifications for rolling stock and routes will be announced in the near future. As the UAE prepares for this next phase in modern mobility, Etihad Rail stands as a flagship initiative driving the nation toward a more connected and sustainable future.

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