Etihad Rail unveils first passenger route: Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 50 minutes
Construction of Etihad Rail began in 2009, and nationwide freight services launched in 2023.
Construction of Etihad Rail began in 2009, and nationwide freight services launched in 2023.
Construction of Etihad Rail began in 2009, and nationwide freight services launched in 2023.
Abu Dhabi: With just months to go before Etihad Rail kicks off its passenger services, the UAE has unveiled the first route on its rail transport map. The inaugural journey will run from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah via Dubai. Once operational, travellers will be able to reach Dubai from Abu Dhabi in just 50 minutes and Fujairah in 100 minutes. The road journey to Dubai, which currently takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, will be cut to 50 minutes, while travel time to Fujairah will be reduced by nearly half, to about 1.5 hours.
The opening of the route also opens up a new travel corridor, taking passengers across some of the UAE’s most scenic landscapes. From mountains and valleys to coastline and desert, the journey will offer travellers a sweeping view of the UAE’s diverse terrain.
Spacious seating, charging points, Wi-Fi connectivity, infotainment systems, and prayer rooms will be available on board, allowing passengers to attend to essential work even while travelling. The facilities will also ensure that travellers can observe prayers on time. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 kmph, with each train capable of carrying around 400 passengers. Seating will be available in first class, business class and economy class.
The passenger rail network is expected to rapidly connect major cities across the UAE, making travel more convenient. As rail services gain momentum, the number of vehicles on the road is likely to decline, thereby reducing carbon emissions. Stronger rail connectivity between the emirates is also expected to boost trade, commerce, and tourism and to accelerate overall development. Official announcements regarding ticket fares and the launch date of passenger services are expected soon.
Three stations in the first phase
The first route will initially serve three stations: Mohammed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, and Sakamkam in Fujairah. The Abu Dhabi station will be located opposite Dalma Mall in Mussafah. Etihad Passenger Rail currently has 11 stations under construction, with plans to add more as passenger demand rises. The network aims to achieve an annual ridership of 1 crore passengers. Construction of Etihad Rail began in 2009, and nationwide freight services launched in 2023.