On June 30, 2026, passenger train services will be launched between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, thus bringing the first phase of the UAE long-awaited passenger rail network to its focus. The entire passenger rail system will transfer to the control of the public on September 30th 2026.
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, announced this in the keynote address delivered during the opening of the new Etihad Rail passenger station in Mohammed bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi.
Passenger Services to Roll Out in Phases
The first Abu Dhabi-Fujairah line will cut down the time taken to travel between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah by about one hour and 45 minutes. The network is open for extension throughout the year; on September 30, Dubai and Al Dhaid stations will be opened, respectively, and then stations in the Al Dhafa region will be opened on December 30, 2026. Connecting to Sharjah on March 30, 2027, is the last possible day.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled noted the station’s sophisticated equipment and its systems, as well as its treatment and control systems for passengers and future expansion plans. Smart infrastructure solutions, aimed at enabling smooth movement of passengers and facilitating transportation efficiency during high demand periods, were highlighted. The new station provides a modern journey experience including cafés, restaurants, retail outlets, international brands and in-vehicle food services. The facilities will be used to make the commuter’s travel safe and seamless, and further the nation’s mobility goals.
Ticket Sales Begin as Rail Project Nears Full Launch
On June 23, 2026, tickets were made available for sale officially. The fares for Abu Dhabi–Fujairah begin at Dh55 per person for Comfort Class and Dh120 per person for Premium Class. It has 13 trains that are able to accommodate up to 400 passengers per train. Tickets are available online via the Etihad Rail website and mobile application.
The passenger rail project is one of the top priorities in the UAE National Railway Program that was introduced as part of the UAE’s initiative to implement “Projects of the 50” in 2021. The network will further enhance connectivity between the emirates, better mobility, and the tourism, economic and urban development prospects.
Sheikh Khaled said the passenger railway system was the outcome of the country’s vision of establishing a fully-integrated transportation system that would enable people and traffic to move and boost the country’s competitiveness. He also noted the project reflected the effectiveness of implementing such large-scale infrastructures and properly emphasized the importance of modern transportation for the country’s development, making it a leader in the world. The railways are set to be one of the most important transport corridors in the nation, providing a faster, safer and more sustainable mode of transport for the people, towns and cities of the region.
