Etihad Rail confirmed that its passenger transport services remain on course for launch in 2026, marking a major step in the UAE’s plan to build an integrated and efficient national railway network.
Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Passenger Services, Azza Al Suwaidi, said the project will link 11 cities and regions across the country, stretching from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east, with stops in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and other key hubs.
Speaking at the Global Rail 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, Al Suwaidi highlighted that the network is designed to meet international standards for safety and efficiency. Routes will be fully separated from roads, while integrated first- and last-mile solutions will connect passengers seamlessly with local transport providers.
Trains will carry up to 400 passengers each and run multiple daily services. Travel times are projected at 57 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, 70 minutes to Ruwais, and 105 minutes to Fujairah. Onboard facilities will include dedicated areas for work, reading, and relaxation.
The service will adopt a “digital tickets first” system and emphasize comfort, reliability, and affordability. Planning for stations is underway to ensure accessibility and connectivity for communities nationwide.
Al Suwaidi also revealed that a high-speed rail project is in progress, targeting speeds of 350 kilometers per hour and reducing travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai to just 30 minutes. The initiative is expected to add an estimated AED 145 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next five decades, reinforcing the country’s role as a leader in modern rail transport.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
