Etihad Rail: Connecting UAE's Future

Etihad Rail: A New Era for Rail Travel Between Dubai and Fujairah

The construction of a sustainable transportation network has reached another milestone in the UAE: the Etihad Rail passenger train has successfully completed its trial run between Dubai and Fujairah. The iconic event was attended by top leadership, underscoring the project's significance, which is expected to open to travelers in 2026. The railway network aims to transport 36 million passengers annually by 2030 - quickly, comfortably, and environmentally friendly.

What Does the Etihad Rail Mean for the UAE?

Etihad Rail is not just a new transportation option but one of the pillars of the country's infrastructure. The project spans approximately 900 kilometers, connecting the seven emirates of the UAE and affecting a total of 11 cities and regions. The trains can travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h, significantly reducing travel time between cities.

Connected Cities and Cross-Border Connections

The Etihad Rail network will connect the following cities:

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Al Ain, Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Al Dhaid, Ghuweifat (at the Saudi border), Sohar (Oman - via the Hafeet Rail project)

This system not only improves mobility within the country but also provides regional connectivity to Saudi Arabia and Oman – especially important from an economic and logistics standpoint.

Where Will the Passenger Stations Be?

The network starts in Al Sila city in the west and extends to the eastern part of Fujairah. Key factors in station design include easy accessibility and proximity to urban hubs.

Confirmed stations:

Sakamkam, Fujairah

University City, Sharjah

Planned stations:

Dubai: anticipated near the Jumeirah Golf Estates metro station

Abu Dhabi: between the Mussafah Industrial Zone and Mohammed Bin Zayed City, near Dalma Mall

Towards a Sustainable Future

Etihad Rail is about more than just transportation – it's about the country's long-term vision. The project is part of the UAE's 2030 strategy, which emphasizes low-emission technologies and the creation of more livable urban environments.

Through rail transport:

road traffic is reduced,

harmful emissions are decreased,

transportation safety increases,

new opportunities open up for tourism and workforce mobility.

Summary

The Etihad Rail passenger service is one of the most ambitious transportation projects ever launched in the UAE. The trial run on the Dubai–Fujairah line is symbolic: it not only demonstrated the operability of the railway system but also showed that the country is committed to creating the future of transportation. Etihad Rail simultaneously serves the economy, the environment, and the comfort of people – a worthy example of how UAE's future is being built day by day.

(The article is based on a press release from Etihad Rail.)